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

Find us on Facebook and Twitter 

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

Butterfly Botanical Babyshower

The Stork is coming! The stork is coming! The joyous news of a new baby is here. 

 So much change is touching your lives as you are busy planning and preparing for your child’s arrival. Your friends have asked to plan a special day dedicated just for you.  The guest of honor should be showered with love and support at a beautiful and relaxing celebration. Let us help plan this memorable day for you…..and of course that little one too!

 

Butterfly Botanical

In April we coordinated a baby shower for Kristina and Baby Karly. Held at a private residence, we were able to achieve the perfect intimate setting she sought.  Upon receiving the invitations created by Sunny with Puddle Jumpin Cards, guests were given an exciting glimpse of what was to come.

A Butterfly Botanical theme was created to match Karly’s nursery which is pink, brown and white.  Guests were greeted into a secret garden oasis created by fresh flower bouquets and elegantly displayed plants throughout the rooms.  Butterflies fluttered out of iron cages and pedestals lifted white candles sitting in moss wreaths.  Lanterns were tiered from the ceiling along with butterfly garland, transforming the living room and giving it an outdoor feel. 

 

The baby shower began late morning which called for a delicious brunch spread by Elephants Delicatessen.  Pastry platter, Quiches and fresh fruit were served, along with delicate cupcakes of all sorts.  Food and drink labels, created with pink flowers adorning them, sat elevated in the top of tree topiaries.  A little classy extra, was our pink wine spritzer poured into champagne glasses with personalized butterfly charms.  We wanted to signify that this is a day to treat yourself.

What is a baby shower without games? Based on Kristina’s personality we picked three games to play.  As guests arrived they were given Baby pins, to keep them you could not cross your arms or ankles.  The second was Baby trivia which you can pick up at any local store or you can custom make.  Lastly, we had baby food tasting using three different flavors to create difficulty.  Pre portion out into sample cups before the baby shower starts.  This way you can carry them all out on a tray as you begin the game.

To show our appreciation for attendance, each guest took home a lovely personalized thank you bag.  It was an amazing baby shower filled with laughter and love. Best of all, it was a day dedicated to Kristina & Karly.

This is just one of the many baby showers we can create for our clients.  We have packages ranging design/ décor planning to full coordination.  Call today to set up your consultation and see how we can relieve the stress and add the fun and elegance to your baby shower.

Huge thank you to Stacy Hamilton with Simply Candid Images for the great photos. 

Jessica - Coordinator

Lisa Marie, Meranda, Summer, Alycia, Taylor and Madison

Eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

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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

Valentines Day

Yep that is right it is today.  Did you know that there are an expected 4 million people getting engaged today alone?  That means a LOT of diamonds, chocolates, flowers, bubbly and gold.   Are you one of those couples who will start tomorrow engaged?  Maybe you do not even know it yet. :) 

Well from all of us to all of you.  Congrats. 

Maybe you are one of those fabulous couples who is celebrating your anniversary today?  Happy Anniversary, each year is a true blessing.  Celebrate them to the fullest as you never know what is around the corner.  Enjoy each day of your lives together and always give hugs and kisses. :)  Or maybe on a day like today try something a little more sexy and seductive.

Check out this amazing Cookie that Le Cookie Monkey did for us.  And they can always create and deliver belated ones.  (PS this doesn't have to just be a Valentines Cookie.  You can have them make it for any Anniversary or even Birthday)

Single?  No Worries.  We Love You Too.  Don't ever forget that someone, somewhere LOVES you.  They may not know it yet and you may not know it yet, or maybe you have just forgotten.  But they do LOVE you. 

So, while we should always make sure we are telling our friends, family and loved ones each and every day how much we love them take a few moments today to also smile at someone, give an extra hug or say and extra I Love You.  You will never know exactly how much it will make someones day!

Bridal Boot Camp

The Wedding will be here SOON!!  :)

So you are a bride, bridesmaid, groom, groomsmen and you just realized that you ate a few too many goodies during the holiday's?  Well there is no reason to worry about looking your best because registration is open for Bridal Boot Camp.  Bridal Boot Camp is here to help you lose weight or tone up to look your best. 

So here is it.  Sign up to come and workout with a Certified Personal Trainer in a fabulous gym.  Classes will be a bit of everything from cardio workouts to muscle toning.   Register as a VIP client and receive the added bonus of 15, 30 and 60 minute easy to follow at home workouts and meal planning from a Registered Dietician. 

You want to be as healthy as possible for the wedding and that includes having enough energy to go all day and dance all night.  So start your training now. 

Each session is scheduled for 6 classes. 
1 hr per day from 10:30-11:30
Session one starts on March 24th
$20 per class ($120 per session) to train with a Certified Personal Trainer

We will contact you after we receive your registration to schedule a time to meet up and see what your goals are.  We will work with those goals to help you feel and look your best for the wedding. 

Ask us about how to get your entire session for free at the goal setting appointment. 

It is not about PLANNING you wedding, it is about planning FOR you wedding.  Please note we will not talk about your wedding as this is a time for you to work off any stress, focus on your health and fitness and just have some "you" time for 1 hr a week.

But don't forget to register at www.bridalbootcamp.eventsbylisamarie.com and schedule your goal setting appointment prior to the first class. ;)

Bridal Boot Camp Team

Lisa Marie, Lisa Richards and Kristen Herron

503-830-7779

eventsbylisamarie.com

facebook.com/eventsbylisamarie

twitter @eventsbylmh

Part of the Events by Lisa Marie Professional Event & Wedding Planning Team

Postage Rates

Did you know that on January 22 the cost of a stamp for a standard envelope will be once again increasing from $.44 to $.45?  Are you one of the many couples who will be mailing out Save the Dates or Invitations in the next few months?  Maybe you are hosting an Anniversary Party, Birthday Party or even a shower of some kind.  If so it is important to know what your postage fees will be.  Check out our tips below.

1. Yes we all love the wedding stamp but it is not a FOREVER stamp.  Buying the FOREVER stamps now saves you money, it can be used FOREVER at the current postage rate.  Example - If you are getting married in August you will be mailing out your invitations in June.  If you buy the FOREVER stamp now at $.44 you are saving $.01 per stamp versus buying the stamps in June at $.45 a stamp.  Think that $.01 is not much? Multiple it by your number of Invites, Reply Cards and Thank You Cards. Adds up doesn't it.

2. Did you know the size (shape) of your invitation can change your postage cost?  Remember to check into what it will cost when working on your invitations.  Some square and over sized envelopes cost more to mail.  Ask your consultant if yours fall into the "normal sized" rates or if they will require additional postage.  If additional is needed you may want to check into your budget to see if it is possible.  The added cost to some may add an extra $10 - $40 just to mail (total budget increase not individual invite increase).

3. Did you know the weight of the materials used may make it cost more to mail?  Make sure that you take a sample in to the Post Office (or ask your invitations/stationary consultant) and check the weight and cost to mail them.  Many couples forget that their invitation will be heavier then standard mail.  Thus resulting in higher postage fees (often times not even realized till after they were sent out).

In general be prepared.  Work with a Wedding Planner or an Invitations/Stationary Specialist who knows what your invitations will cost to mail.  And PLEASE save yourself a little money and go get those FOREVER stamps now.  You know now that this is an area where your wedding costs will increase.  So why not be proactive and not let it increase. :)

Happy Wedding Planning.

Lisa Marie, Alycia, Summer and Taylor

Events by Lisa Marie

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

Professional Event & Wedding Planning Specialists, Portland Oregon

News and Upcoming Events!!

We are pleased to announce that for the second year in a row we have received the Wedding Wire Brides Choice Award.  :)  We really appreciate all the love and support our clients have given us as it really means a lot to our entire team.

Haven't met us yet?  Then come on down and see us at the Art of Wedding Show this Thursday.  Hurry over to the website to get your tickets before the show.  Once there make sure you stop on in and see us at our booth to chat about your upcoming wedding and all the great ideas you have.  We always love chatting to couples and hearing what they have planned.

See you soon. 

Lisa Marie and Team

Professional Event and Wedding Planning

Portland Oregon

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

Twitter @eventsbylmh

Facebook facebook.com/eventsbylisamarie

Your Engagement

With Engagement Season almost over we wanted to say congratulations to all the newly engaged couples.  This is a super exciting time for you and there are lots of details for you to start working on.  It is important for you to remember that you also need to take some time to enjoy your engagement together.

Once you have spent some time soaking in the glow of your engagement it is time to start the planning.  There are lots of things to take care of and lots of Bridal Shows to attend.  Once you have gone to all these shows you may be a bit overwhelmed.  That is normal and ok, just take a deep breathe and remember to take things one step at a time.

First, call and work with a professional coordinator or specialist.  We can help you sort thru all the tasks and help you get done what needs to be done working with your budget, ideas and theme.

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation.  2012 dates are filling up fast and 2013 inquiries are coming in.  And don't forget we can start with your engagement party.

Event by Lisa Marie

Lisa Marie

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

The Proposal

Hey Guys, This one is for you.  The Engagement Season is here, and so are we to help you out with any questions you may have.

Recently we had a consultation with a soon to be groom who is planning a special proposal for his girlfriend.  We gave him lots of things to think about during his planning.  Below are a few of our tips. 

Things to think about
1. Is it important to her to have her parents approval?  Remember to ask mom, dad or whomever. 
2. Remember that it doesn't have to be over the top, just special and personal.
3. If the ring doesn't fit it is ok, the surprise will be enough for her.
4. Do you know what type of ring she wants?  Here are a few tips, Does she wear a lot of yellow gold or Silver?  Chances are, whichever she wears, is what she will want her engagement/wedding ring to be.
5. Is there a location that is special to the two of you?  A first date?  Favorite Memory?  These are great places to propose.
6. Have a friend or professional photographer hide to capture the joy and emotions.  Just make sure she doesn't see them.
7. Think about something sweet to tell her.  Maybe tell her how you knew she was the one, or how just how much you love her.  Write it down for her to have forever but know if you can't get out anything other than "Marry Me?"  It is ok.

Things not to do.
1. Putting the ring in her food or drink.  No one wants to swallow the ring, have it in their mouth or try to put on a sticky ring.
2. Do not over do it.  Keep it to your personalities.  It does not need to be a big huge over the top proposal.
3. Do not do it at a restaurant or in front of a huge amount of people if your girlfriend is shy and it would embarrass her.
4. Do not make it seem casual or like an obligation.  This is something that should be special for her.

Enjoy this moment.  It will only happen once and you will want this to be a special memory.

What to do after she says yes?
1. Enjoy the moment, Say I love you (if you haven't already)
2. Keep it a secret for at least a few hours.  Something only the two of you know.  (if you can that is)
3. When you are ready to talk wedding plans, give us a call for a complimentary consultation about what to do first in your wedding planning.

Events by Lisa Marie

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

Lisa Marie and Team :)

Hip, Fun, Sassy and Stylish Event and Wedding Planning