In just a few weeks will be the end of 2010 and the beginning of 2011. As with all new years, there are resolutions abound and new trends galore! 2010 was a year of thriftiness and learning to be creative with what one has. Whether that was having a rustic themed event in a spacious back yard, having your bridesmaids wear mismatching dresses (that they happened to already own), or even choosing the same style table throughout your event, everyone was becoming resourceful. With Twenty-Eleven on the way, here are some event trends to help ring in the New Year:
~Details – Every little detail should be looked at! Make your event personalized, in the end all the little detail create a HUGE difference!
~Vintage Photography – Creating a backdrop to look like wedding albums from the 1950-70’s. It makes semi-old look new again!
~Multiple bold colors with black – Choosing a few bold colors instead of the normal one accent color is going to be a fast spreading trend. Also pairing them against black will allow the bold colors to shine that much more.
~Eco-friendly – Local foods and recycled paper invitations are just a few of the ways your event can begin to go green.
~Social Media – Just like Peak Events, everyone has a Facebook or blog. In 2011 these hotspots aren’t going anywhere. Use them to keep your guests updated on every detail of your event!
Though 2010 is coming to an end, there is still one trend that will be popular, outdoor events. In Flagstaff, it would be a shame not to use the beautiful scenery around us. Though with this snow, I would much rather be looking out upon it from a well heated room! 2011 is a brand new year with glorious things to come, so get ready, they’re almost here!
Stephanie
December 9, 2010
December 8, 2010
New Years Eve
We are now 23 days away from the New Years Eve Open House. I’ve decided to start the event at 6:00 pm – I have a lot of friends who want to stop by, but also want to go downtown for the annual Pinecone Drop at 10:00. This way I can have people meandering in and out with the ones who really want to celebrate at midnight, coming by around 10:00 pm.
Since I promised to talk more about the decorations and how I do them here we go. The large ice sculpture sounds much harder than it really is, but you will need a large freezer. We happen to have an upright that I put all my food in and then a chest that I plug in when needed. It’s time to plug in old Betsy and make a couple of ice sculptures. First look for boxes that are the size and shape you’d like to have for the base. It’s pretty easy and can be as simple as a wine box, a long flower box (check with local florists for this one) or any box will work. Next step is to line the box with a garbage bag. The smaller the box, the smaller the bag, because every crease in that bag will show in the ice. I usually like to find the “front” of the sculpture and tape everything around so the back side is the one that shows the imperfections. I also like to add a little decorations to my ice blocks, so what I’ll do is get a slightly smaller box, wrap the outside in plastic wrap, spray with cooking oil and once again tape a garbage bag so the fronts line up and place the smaller box inside the larger box. Next step is to add the water to the inside box first – only filling it about 1/3 of the way and then the fill the outer box with a strand of outdoor lights and some pine boughs, making sure I keep the plug coming out the backside of my block. Keep filling like this until it’s full and set it inside your freezer. It’s going to weigh a ton, so get help. Plan about a week for the water to freeze completely and if the days and nights are below freezing find a shady place and you can keep it outside covered with a tarp.
Once my base is done I’ve decided this year to place a large white candle on each bases. This adds to my fire and ice concept and with the lights in the base will be a nice welcome for my guests. You can also use food coloring to tint the ice, however it tends to get a tad “watered down” and not very vibrant – use latex paint and you’ll get great color, just make sure you’ve got a container that will keep it from melting into the ground. Now that I’ve got my outside decorations dialed in, next week we’ll work on how to bring fire and ice indoors!
Debbi
Since I promised to talk more about the decorations and how I do them here we go. The large ice sculpture sounds much harder than it really is, but you will need a large freezer. We happen to have an upright that I put all my food in and then a chest that I plug in when needed. It’s time to plug in old Betsy and make a couple of ice sculptures. First look for boxes that are the size and shape you’d like to have for the base. It’s pretty easy and can be as simple as a wine box, a long flower box (check with local florists for this one) or any box will work. Next step is to line the box with a garbage bag. The smaller the box, the smaller the bag, because every crease in that bag will show in the ice. I usually like to find the “front” of the sculpture and tape everything around so the back side is the one that shows the imperfections. I also like to add a little decorations to my ice blocks, so what I’ll do is get a slightly smaller box, wrap the outside in plastic wrap, spray with cooking oil and once again tape a garbage bag so the fronts line up and place the smaller box inside the larger box. Next step is to add the water to the inside box first – only filling it about 1/3 of the way and then the fill the outer box with a strand of outdoor lights and some pine boughs, making sure I keep the plug coming out the backside of my block. Keep filling like this until it’s full and set it inside your freezer. It’s going to weigh a ton, so get help. Plan about a week for the water to freeze completely and if the days and nights are below freezing find a shady place and you can keep it outside covered with a tarp.
Once my base is done I’ve decided this year to place a large white candle on each bases. This adds to my fire and ice concept and with the lights in the base will be a nice welcome for my guests. You can also use food coloring to tint the ice, however it tends to get a tad “watered down” and not very vibrant – use latex paint and you’ll get great color, just make sure you’ve got a container that will keep it from melting into the ground. Now that I’ve got my outside decorations dialed in, next week we’ll work on how to bring fire and ice indoors!
Debbi
December 1, 2010
New Year’s Eve
The holidays are now in full swing. I always feel like they start off with Halloween and then end with the New Year. I have always loved the holidays, from decorating for Halloween and carving pumpkins, to hosting a cocktail party for New Year’s Eve. I usually pick one of the holidays and really do it up. I’m partial to Winter Solstice Parties because I love to decorate the house, I make a mean egg nog, and for some reason people are always a little weird about Winter Solstice, but I’m thinking this year might be time for another New Year’s Eve bash. My last one had the taxis arriving at the same time as my paper – I’m not sure I’m up for another 7:30 am end time, but I think a nice cocktail party/open house might be the ticket to a great way to start the New Year!
I’m heading out of town for the rest of the week, so next week will have to be a busy one as I put together invitations and a theme for the new year. I’m in a crazy kind of mood today, so I was thinking of doing a crystal ball theme. Have tarot cards out, I think a friend has a crystal ball, maybe she’ll tell fortunes and then some runes and Ouija board just to make it fun. And that’s the point – make it fun – don’t just have the same old crowd with the same old music and drinking the same old champagne. Mix it up! Make it unexpected! I think I’ll make an orb ice sculpture – sounds more difficult than it is – then decorate with fire and ice. Very mystical looking and yet BEYOND easy.
Stay tuned next week and I’ll let you know how to make the decorations. If you want to throw a party this season and you’re a bit tired, overwhelmed or just hate putting things together – call Peak Events – we’ll make your holiday party look over the top for a bottom line budget!
Take care and I’ll talk to you next week!
Debbi
November 9, 2010
Holiday Parties
Family, friends, food, spirits, music; what more could anyone ask for around the holiday season? Okay, maybe a couple million in the bank account and a less stressful planning time of year. Unfortunately Peak Events cannot help with the millions, but we can help your party or event run smoothly! Here are a few tips to follow if you are brave enough to go this alone (if after a while you need our help, we’ll still be here!) :
* Decide the type of party. Will it be for family, neighbors, co-workers, friends, and will children be allowed? This will set the mood with what festivities to include.
* Settle on a menu early. Buffet or sit down? Multiple course or hors d'oeurves? How many types of desserts. Signature cocktail or make your own drinks? Writing down your list will be a great help!
* Location, Location, Location. Will this be at the office, your house or somewhere else?
* Plan rentals accordingly. After the invites have been sent out, reserve rentals for extra chairs, tables and serving dishes that you may not have. It is a lot easier than buying!
* And at the main stage is… Will you load up your iPod with holiday music? Hire a band/DJ? Making sure the party stays lively is essential to your guests having a good time!
* Deck the Halls. The décor you choose will help make your guests feel festive and cheerful. Preferably don’t overdo it and make the location look like winter went crazy. Just a few here and there will do it, a nice tablescape, some garland hanging, luminaries guiding the guests to the entry door.
* Eat, drink, and be merry. This is your event so make sure to enjoy it! Have one of your signature cocktails, some delicious food, and heck even sing a bit!
Hopefully these few guidelines are enough to get you started planning your holiday party.
Happy Holidays!
Stephanie
* Decide the type of party. Will it be for family, neighbors, co-workers, friends, and will children be allowed? This will set the mood with what festivities to include.
* Settle on a menu early. Buffet or sit down? Multiple course or hors d'oeurves? How many types of desserts. Signature cocktail or make your own drinks? Writing down your list will be a great help!
* Location, Location, Location. Will this be at the office, your house or somewhere else?
* Plan rentals accordingly. After the invites have been sent out, reserve rentals for extra chairs, tables and serving dishes that you may not have. It is a lot easier than buying!
* And at the main stage is… Will you load up your iPod with holiday music? Hire a band/DJ? Making sure the party stays lively is essential to your guests having a good time!
* Deck the Halls. The décor you choose will help make your guests feel festive and cheerful. Preferably don’t overdo it and make the location look like winter went crazy. Just a few here and there will do it, a nice tablescape, some garland hanging, luminaries guiding the guests to the entry door.
* Eat, drink, and be merry. This is your event so make sure to enjoy it! Have one of your signature cocktails, some delicious food, and heck even sing a bit!
Hopefully these few guidelines are enough to get you started planning your holiday party.
Happy Holidays!
Stephanie
November 2, 2010
Flagstaff Oktoberfest 2010
100 bottles of beer on the wall – or rather 34 kegs of beer and over 3500 people! That was this year’s Flagstaff Oktoberfest! Woo hoo – did we have a great time or what???? The fall weather couldn’t have been better, the music was all polka and the beer – well, I heard it was pretty darn good. I love planning events and festivals are my favorite of all, but the bummer is that I don’t get to really attend my festivals – I’m too busy working! I really should have thought that one through.
One of the reasons I started Peak Events was so we could produce festivals and benefit non-profits that might not have the staff the put on a large event. Peak Events outdid itself this year with Oktoberfest. I am so proud of all my volunteers, committee chairs and our staff! Because of all the support, we were able to donate over 1500 pounds of food and nearly $4,000 in cash. Even though we were tired, the fact that we were able to help the Northern Arizona Food Bank before the holidays left all of us feeling pretty good about what we do.
We are already working on next year’s festival and for all interested……. It will be expanded! I’d like to thank the craziest judges known to mankind for all their help (?). We held a yodeling contest, which I have to say, was much better than I anticipated. We had a yodel off between two women that were absolutely fantastic. After the yodel contest and after the crowd had a few beers, we had the costume contest. I must say, the costumes were unique, however, there was a sweet girl in her heritage German dress that took the show. After many more beers were served, we had the brat eating contest that was highlight of the day. People were crowding around and we learned a very valuable lesson – put it on the stage!
I hope if you did attend the 2nd Annual Flagstaff Oktoberfest you had a great time and will be ready to come again next year. If you missed the festival – we hope to see you next year! We will once again be supporting the Food Bank, so mark your calendar for the first Saturday in October and bring those cans of food!
Debbi
One of the reasons I started Peak Events was so we could produce festivals and benefit non-profits that might not have the staff the put on a large event. Peak Events outdid itself this year with Oktoberfest. I am so proud of all my volunteers, committee chairs and our staff! Because of all the support, we were able to donate over 1500 pounds of food and nearly $4,000 in cash. Even though we were tired, the fact that we were able to help the Northern Arizona Food Bank before the holidays left all of us feeling pretty good about what we do.
We are already working on next year’s festival and for all interested……. It will be expanded! I’d like to thank the craziest judges known to mankind for all their help (?). We held a yodeling contest, which I have to say, was much better than I anticipated. We had a yodel off between two women that were absolutely fantastic. After the yodel contest and after the crowd had a few beers, we had the costume contest. I must say, the costumes were unique, however, there was a sweet girl in her heritage German dress that took the show. After many more beers were served, we had the brat eating contest that was highlight of the day. People were crowding around and we learned a very valuable lesson – put it on the stage!
I hope if you did attend the 2nd Annual Flagstaff Oktoberfest you had a great time and will be ready to come again next year. If you missed the festival – we hope to see you next year! We will once again be supporting the Food Bank, so mark your calendar for the first Saturday in October and bring those cans of food!
Debbi
October 27, 2010
The Forgetful Bride
As a bride we know that we absolutely cannot forget our something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue! But there are a lot of other things we cannot forget either. Here are the top 10 things to remember and certainly not forge when planning for your big day!
10. Extra Cash and Checkbook It is always good to have extra cash on you but also some vendors arrange for a check the day of their work.
9. Gifts for your Bridesmaids Although it is not required by the bride, many brides choose to follow the tradition of giving their bridesmaids a little gift on the big day. This can be a bracelet, necklace, a funny inside joke that all the girls will always remember, anything! Just don't forget it at home!
8. Cellphone, charger, and directions to your location Obviously it is nice to be able to make calls to your coordinator, family and friends when you need help on your wedding day but there is another reason to have your phone! There will be that guest who forgets directions and only knows your number. When directions are needed over the phone ask a friend to help you out- hand them the directions and ask them to explain. It will be one less thing to stress about!
7. Babysitter A lot of the time this is overlooked. If you will be having young children in your wedding (maybe nephews or nieces who will be ring bearers or flower girls) bring along a sitter to help out! It is one less thing to worry about and will put their parents at ease during their preparation as well.
6. Marriage License An easy way to guarantee it being there is to make a quick note to yourself to give it to the coordinator because then you don't have to worry about remembering it- we got it! But, if you do decide to hold onto it and bring it to the ceremony yourself remember to treat it well and put it in a safe place where nothing can ruin it.
5. Ipod Although there will most likely be a DJ at your wedding or a live band you can't forget music for getting ready and creating memories! Make an awesome playlist of songs that you and your bridesmaids can listen to while getting ready. Think of those old school jams that you and your girls used to listen to! Think of the new songs that you love to dance to and that give you a good feeling! Be sure to also include a few songs that will put you at ease and remind you that this day is for you and your future husband- there is nobody else to please.
4. Your best shower goodies Majority of weddings are at a location other than your home. Which means that in the midst of packing it is crucial that we do not forget our good shampoo, conditioner, body wash and a new razor! The last thing we want on our wedding day is to use an unfamiliar hotel shampoo and conditioner.
3. Comfortable Shoes Although sometimes the plan is to wear those super-cute heels the entire time, that does not always happen! I repeat, that does not always happen! Be prepared and have your coordinator keep a comfortable pair of shoes or sandals handy during the ceremony and reception.
2. Everyday things We must not get completely wrapped up in packing the things only needed on our wedding day. We may have an incredible hair dresser and a flawless make-up artist coming but on every other day you are the one doing make-up and hair. Bring your daily make-up, hair styling tools, and of course clothes and medications for the your everyday use!
and the number #1 thing a bride can not afford to forget is...
1. Emergency Kit If you book with Peak Events- don't worry about it, we have a wonderfully built Emergency Kit. BUT, for those of you who would like to pack your own there are a couple things to be sure to be sure to remember. Such as: tide stick, safety pins, sewing kit, Band-Aids, snacks, gum and tampons! (look for our "How to build an emergency kit" blog post.)
Belle
10. Extra Cash and Checkbook It is always good to have extra cash on you but also some vendors arrange for a check the day of their work.
9. Gifts for your Bridesmaids Although it is not required by the bride, many brides choose to follow the tradition of giving their bridesmaids a little gift on the big day. This can be a bracelet, necklace, a funny inside joke that all the girls will always remember, anything! Just don't forget it at home!
8. Cellphone, charger, and directions to your location Obviously it is nice to be able to make calls to your coordinator, family and friends when you need help on your wedding day but there is another reason to have your phone! There will be that guest who forgets directions and only knows your number. When directions are needed over the phone ask a friend to help you out- hand them the directions and ask them to explain. It will be one less thing to stress about!
7. Babysitter A lot of the time this is overlooked. If you will be having young children in your wedding (maybe nephews or nieces who will be ring bearers or flower girls) bring along a sitter to help out! It is one less thing to worry about and will put their parents at ease during their preparation as well.
6. Marriage License An easy way to guarantee it being there is to make a quick note to yourself to give it to the coordinator because then you don't have to worry about remembering it- we got it! But, if you do decide to hold onto it and bring it to the ceremony yourself remember to treat it well and put it in a safe place where nothing can ruin it.
5. Ipod Although there will most likely be a DJ at your wedding or a live band you can't forget music for getting ready and creating memories! Make an awesome playlist of songs that you and your bridesmaids can listen to while getting ready. Think of those old school jams that you and your girls used to listen to! Think of the new songs that you love to dance to and that give you a good feeling! Be sure to also include a few songs that will put you at ease and remind you that this day is for you and your future husband- there is nobody else to please.
4. Your best shower goodies Majority of weddings are at a location other than your home. Which means that in the midst of packing it is crucial that we do not forget our good shampoo, conditioner, body wash and a new razor! The last thing we want on our wedding day is to use an unfamiliar hotel shampoo and conditioner.
3. Comfortable Shoes Although sometimes the plan is to wear those super-cute heels the entire time, that does not always happen! I repeat, that does not always happen! Be prepared and have your coordinator keep a comfortable pair of shoes or sandals handy during the ceremony and reception.
2. Everyday things We must not get completely wrapped up in packing the things only needed on our wedding day. We may have an incredible hair dresser and a flawless make-up artist coming but on every other day you are the one doing make-up and hair. Bring your daily make-up, hair styling tools, and of course clothes and medications for the your everyday use!
and the number #1 thing a bride can not afford to forget is...
1. Emergency Kit If you book with Peak Events- don't worry about it, we have a wonderfully built Emergency Kit. BUT, for those of you who would like to pack your own there are a couple things to be sure to be sure to remember. Such as: tide stick, safety pins, sewing kit, Band-Aids, snacks, gum and tampons! (look for our "How to build an emergency kit" blog post.)
Belle
October 25, 2010
Outdoor dinner parties
Oh Fall – you’re so beautiful, I just can’t get mad – even though I hate to see my summer go. I had such a fun summer – full of great work, celebrations and my favorite thing of all………. Outdoor dinner parties!!!!
If you read this blog, then you are aware that I threw a wonderful Summer Solstice party – if memory serves, I think my last blog was before that party!!!! EEEEK! The annual Summer Solstice party was a lot of fun, full of great food, great weather, great friends – oh and a forest fire! I’ll never forget getting phone calls from people wondering how they could get to our place for the party with the roads closed. See, I was on the possible evacuation list and the police were not allowing people to get into our neighborhood through the usual manner. However, those who were really dedicated came by and we partied until midnight. I will never forget all of us standing there watching the huge clouds of smoke, while a tanker dropped its load of fire retardant and all of us in unison chanting pull up, pull up, pull up! The plane flew right over the house and while I’m sure he wasn’t close, the entire house and ground shook as the plane started to gain altitude. I think I may have even ducked.
I love dinner parties. I threw a birthday party for my daughter (and business partner), and again, we had a lovely evening outside with appetizers, steak, crab and her favorite cake – chocolate ganache! Many bottles of wine were consumed that night and I have to say it is so much fun when you can have three generations of family and friends gathered around to celebrate. I am truly blessed to have such great evenings in my life.
My last dinner party of the summer was for my husband’s birthday. We invited friends we’ve known since college (for him it’s been since Jr. High), and spent a wonderful evening outside laughing and reminiscing. I’m married to a man who has a very simple palate and since we’d produced a golf tournament the day before I won’t complain. I served a grilled tri tip, with green salad from the garden, a pasta salad, grilled potatoes and his favorite chocolate cake – devils food.
I’ve put the yard to bed, so it will be a few months before I can once again throw an outdoor dinner party, but I’ll keep everyone posted on all the holiday party plans!
Debbi
If you read this blog, then you are aware that I threw a wonderful Summer Solstice party – if memory serves, I think my last blog was before that party!!!! EEEEK! The annual Summer Solstice party was a lot of fun, full of great food, great weather, great friends – oh and a forest fire! I’ll never forget getting phone calls from people wondering how they could get to our place for the party with the roads closed. See, I was on the possible evacuation list and the police were not allowing people to get into our neighborhood through the usual manner. However, those who were really dedicated came by and we partied until midnight. I will never forget all of us standing there watching the huge clouds of smoke, while a tanker dropped its load of fire retardant and all of us in unison chanting pull up, pull up, pull up! The plane flew right over the house and while I’m sure he wasn’t close, the entire house and ground shook as the plane started to gain altitude. I think I may have even ducked.
I love dinner parties. I threw a birthday party for my daughter (and business partner), and again, we had a lovely evening outside with appetizers, steak, crab and her favorite cake – chocolate ganache! Many bottles of wine were consumed that night and I have to say it is so much fun when you can have three generations of family and friends gathered around to celebrate. I am truly blessed to have such great evenings in my life.
My last dinner party of the summer was for my husband’s birthday. We invited friends we’ve known since college (for him it’s been since Jr. High), and spent a wonderful evening outside laughing and reminiscing. I’m married to a man who has a very simple palate and since we’d produced a golf tournament the day before I won’t complain. I served a grilled tri tip, with green salad from the garden, a pasta salad, grilled potatoes and his favorite chocolate cake – devils food.
I’ve put the yard to bed, so it will be a few months before I can once again throw an outdoor dinner party, but I’ll keep everyone posted on all the holiday party plans!
Debbi
October 24, 2010
10th Annual Northern Arizona University Native American Golf
On September 18, 2010 Peak Events had the pleasure of producing the 10th Annual Northern Arizona University Native American Golf Tournament. This is such a fun event and this year, the weather was spectacular, allowing golfers to enjoy Flagstaff at its best. Continental Country Club was the venue for this event and with nearly 100 golfers; the event raised $5,000 for NAU Native American Scholarships.
This was the second year Peak Events produced the golf tournament for the NAU and we enjoyed meeting all the new players as well as reconnecting with golfers from last year. This year’s tournament experienced the same challenges that many golf tournaments have experienced in the last few years. We found that while sponsorship dollars were down, the player’s enthusiasm was up and they were willing to purchase more raffle tickets in an attempt to support the NAU Scholarship Fund.
One of the things that I’ve found interesting is the number of organizations that want to hold a golf tournament because they’ve heard that tournaments make a lot of money. They have and they can, however, before deciding to put on a golf tournament there are a few things you might consider.
1. Has anyone on your committee ever put on a tournament?
Many people think that golf tournaments are a quick and easy means to raise money. First, they take a lot of planning and a lot of time. Second, you must have sponsorships. In order for a golf tournament to be profitable, you must have sponsorships covering the tee prizes, the winning prizes as well as shirts and preferably food. Without sponsorships for all of these, you will at best break even.
2. Does anyone on your committee golf?
I’m a golfer, as well as my husband. If I had to guess at the number of golf tournaments we’re asked to participate in, I’d say we could easily spend around $20,000 just in entry fees for the two of us. Look at your golfer base. If there aren’t a lot of golfers in your organization – how do you plan to get golfers to play in your tournament verses all the other tournaments they are invited to play? Golf tournaments are usually cause based and although I haven’t seen bad causes, everyone has to pick and chose where they can afford and if they have the time. As much as I’d love to support them all – in this economy, everyone is pairing down. Many golf tournaments were canceled this year or scaled back considerably because there are too few golfers to support too many tournaments.
3. Are you charging too much for the course and the type of food served?
I’ve seen some tournaments charge a stupidly high amount of money for a public course you can play any day of the week. I’ve also seen tournaments charge very low for a private course in hopes of getting more golfers. Sometimes this works, sometimes it backfires. I’d rather charge a little low and over deliver, than to charge too high and have people walk away feeling like they didn’t get their money’s worth. Golfers are picky. They will applaud and become quite loyal to a tournament they feel is loyal to them. They will turn if they feel they are being nickel and dimed or if they feel as though they are being taken advantage of in the name of fundraising.
4. Are you planning on having raffles?
Everyone loves to win, the more raffle prizes, the more raffle tickets sold. I’m torn on the silent auctions. I’ve seen them successful and then I’ve seen people put out the same old thing year after year expecting to make what they did the first year. If you’re building a loyal golfer base – give them variety. People will bid on new and exciting things, but if it’s the same old products, people will pass that up first. Silent Auctions need their own committee in my opinion. You need to be getting unique items that everyone wants to bid on.
I love golf and I enjoy tournaments (more so when I win), however, I am always cautious when groups think this will bring in big bucks year after year. A golf tournament takes a lot of time and a lot of relationship building in order to be successful. If you do decide to put on a tournament, make sure you have a lot of dedicated people working with you and remember, a tournament is only as good as the golfers are treated.
Debbi
This was the second year Peak Events produced the golf tournament for the NAU and we enjoyed meeting all the new players as well as reconnecting with golfers from last year. This year’s tournament experienced the same challenges that many golf tournaments have experienced in the last few years. We found that while sponsorship dollars were down, the player’s enthusiasm was up and they were willing to purchase more raffle tickets in an attempt to support the NAU Scholarship Fund.
One of the things that I’ve found interesting is the number of organizations that want to hold a golf tournament because they’ve heard that tournaments make a lot of money. They have and they can, however, before deciding to put on a golf tournament there are a few things you might consider.
1. Has anyone on your committee ever put on a tournament?
Many people think that golf tournaments are a quick and easy means to raise money. First, they take a lot of planning and a lot of time. Second, you must have sponsorships. In order for a golf tournament to be profitable, you must have sponsorships covering the tee prizes, the winning prizes as well as shirts and preferably food. Without sponsorships for all of these, you will at best break even.
2. Does anyone on your committee golf?
I’m a golfer, as well as my husband. If I had to guess at the number of golf tournaments we’re asked to participate in, I’d say we could easily spend around $20,000 just in entry fees for the two of us. Look at your golfer base. If there aren’t a lot of golfers in your organization – how do you plan to get golfers to play in your tournament verses all the other tournaments they are invited to play? Golf tournaments are usually cause based and although I haven’t seen bad causes, everyone has to pick and chose where they can afford and if they have the time. As much as I’d love to support them all – in this economy, everyone is pairing down. Many golf tournaments were canceled this year or scaled back considerably because there are too few golfers to support too many tournaments.
3. Are you charging too much for the course and the type of food served?
I’ve seen some tournaments charge a stupidly high amount of money for a public course you can play any day of the week. I’ve also seen tournaments charge very low for a private course in hopes of getting more golfers. Sometimes this works, sometimes it backfires. I’d rather charge a little low and over deliver, than to charge too high and have people walk away feeling like they didn’t get their money’s worth. Golfers are picky. They will applaud and become quite loyal to a tournament they feel is loyal to them. They will turn if they feel they are being nickel and dimed or if they feel as though they are being taken advantage of in the name of fundraising.
4. Are you planning on having raffles?
Everyone loves to win, the more raffle prizes, the more raffle tickets sold. I’m torn on the silent auctions. I’ve seen them successful and then I’ve seen people put out the same old thing year after year expecting to make what they did the first year. If you’re building a loyal golfer base – give them variety. People will bid on new and exciting things, but if it’s the same old products, people will pass that up first. Silent Auctions need their own committee in my opinion. You need to be getting unique items that everyone wants to bid on.
I love golf and I enjoy tournaments (more so when I win), however, I am always cautious when groups think this will bring in big bucks year after year. A golf tournament takes a lot of time and a lot of relationship building in order to be successful. If you do decide to put on a tournament, make sure you have a lot of dedicated people working with you and remember, a tournament is only as good as the golfers are treated.
Debbi
October 19, 2010
First Annual WE Fest
On August 21, 2010, Peak Events had the honor of helping to produce a festival new to Flagstaff. 2010 marked the 35th Anniversary of Aspey, Watkins and Diesel Law Firm, and instead of throwing a party for top clients, they decided to give back to the community that has given them so much.
The First Annual WE Fest was a celebration of Flagstaff and the wonderful things that make living here so special. Held in downtown Flagstaff at Heritage Square and AWD’s building, the event was free to the public and offered food, music and great information about some of our local non-profits. Everyone who attended was given an opportunity to win a pair of customized bikes by taking a tour of the booths. Local Non-profits were invited to participate and educate the public on how they work hard to improve life in Flagstaff. Well priced food and sodas along with talented local musicians rounded out the beautiful summer afternoon.
Working on a corporate celebration is just plain fun. The WE Fest gave people in Flagstaff a chance to meet the attorneys at the firm, because they all participated and were selling sodas and walking around talking to everyone. I’m pretty sure the lawyers accounted for most of the gelato sold at the festival and it was fun to watch them work together putting on this festival for a community they obviously care deeply for.
With this economy, I know a lot of companies have downsized their staff and as a result their celebrations. But while the bottom line is always important, it’s also important for people to share in celebrations and build camaraderie. Watching the AWD group pitch in and haul ice, sell sodas and clean up the park, it dawned on me: AWD wasn’t just throwing a great community festival; they were enjoying each other’s company and in doing so, strengthened their own community of employees.
Peak Events had a great time working on this event and enjoyed all the people who came out and celebrated this landmark anniversary.
Debbi
The First Annual WE Fest was a celebration of Flagstaff and the wonderful things that make living here so special. Held in downtown Flagstaff at Heritage Square and AWD’s building, the event was free to the public and offered food, music and great information about some of our local non-profits. Everyone who attended was given an opportunity to win a pair of customized bikes by taking a tour of the booths. Local Non-profits were invited to participate and educate the public on how they work hard to improve life in Flagstaff. Well priced food and sodas along with talented local musicians rounded out the beautiful summer afternoon.
Working on a corporate celebration is just plain fun. The WE Fest gave people in Flagstaff a chance to meet the attorneys at the firm, because they all participated and were selling sodas and walking around talking to everyone. I’m pretty sure the lawyers accounted for most of the gelato sold at the festival and it was fun to watch them work together putting on this festival for a community they obviously care deeply for.
With this economy, I know a lot of companies have downsized their staff and as a result their celebrations. But while the bottom line is always important, it’s also important for people to share in celebrations and build camaraderie. Watching the AWD group pitch in and haul ice, sell sodas and clean up the park, it dawned on me: AWD wasn’t just throwing a great community festival; they were enjoying each other’s company and in doing so, strengthened their own community of employees.
Peak Events had a great time working on this event and enjoyed all the people who came out and celebrated this landmark anniversary.
Event Day Vendors:
Venue: Heritage Square, Flagstaff
Event Planning: Peak Events
Event Design: KD Event Design
Photographer: Melissa Dunstan Photography
Floral: Glamorous Occasion's
Rentals/Tenting: Tri Rentals
Debbi
August 17, 2010
Baby Shower
So this past weekend we planned our cousin’s baby shower. Our Cousin Lisa lives in San Diego and is having her first and what she says her only child.
We started with a “theme” which basically went off of the amazing bedding from Target she picked out. She ended up going with one that had different colored pinks and browns that focused on tulips, it was adorable! So we went to About Memories and More to create some invitations. Kirsten was amazing and because mom and I aren’t so talented in the scrapbooking arena, we hired Kirsten to put together these amazing invitations.
After one short week, we picked them up and sent them out! We were so excited!!! People called to RSVP, telling us how much they loved the invitations. Then it was onto the actual planning of the event!
First we had to decide what food we were going to cook and serve at the event, what kinds of centerpieces we were going to put together, if we needed to rent any tables and chairs, what linens, favors, games, etc!
The week of the event we went grocery shopping here in Flagstaff (sales tax is cheaper than in California), started packing and loaded up the car. Now the baby shower was going to be held at my cousin’s amazing house and we ended up staying with her. The baby’s room is so cute; they have all the furniture in, replaced all the knobs with pink flowers, and put a mural on the wall! I’ve visited my cousin numerous times because to be honest she is more of a big sister than a cousin to me, however in all the times I visited her she never cooked for me, so we had no idea what kind of cooking tools she had.
So mom and I pack up the ice chest full of food, and then we start in on the kitchen supplies. We ended up taking knives, forks, serving dishes, etc. All because we had no idea what she had. My dad asks when we are loading up the car, “do you need the kitchen sink?” Very funny dad! We also load in two tables, vases (because Peak Events has them), pillows and of course clothes, lots of clothes.
Earlier that week, my friend Jessica came over to help me make a diaper cake for the event. Her little sister had a baby boy and Jessica made an amazing cake, so I asked for her help. We ended up using 72 diapers, a blanket, and more.
So now that mom’s big expedition is loaded with baby shower stuff, we were off and running! Almost 8 hours in the car, was a lot! We stopped in Kingman at a random truck stop, where you could buy just about anything, including knives, car stuff, NFL mugs and jeans! Then we entered California, I am driving and after Lake Havasu there is a check point. We start to approach and my mom says “Oh my god, they might take our lemons” I had to have given her the strangest look, mostly because I was so confused as to why California would want our Arizona lemons and the fact that if they did I was sure California had plenty of lemons. We pass through not a problem, of course, and I turn to my mom and say “WHEW we still have our lemons!” She wasn’t amused. Although we did laugh for quite some time! We decided to go through Barstow because silly us, we thought we needed to hit up the coach outlet store. The second we walked in we were pushed and shoved by all the people. We couldn’t get out of there fast enough. That totally turned us off to the rest of the outlet stores, and we ended up grabbing some food and gas and hitting the road. We continue on our way, through California Traffic and construction. We finally made it to our cousin’s house. It was so nice to see her – big belly and all! We unloaded the car and proceeded to have a drink and go to dinner. We ended up at this amazing Italian restaurant where we all ate WAY too much food.
The next day mom and I wake up early to finish preparing the food for the baby shower (if you don’t already know, my mother is an amazing cook). We mostly wanted to finish early because we wanted to go to the BEACH! Again, after all the times I’ve visited my cousin, not once have we gone to the beach. So we all load up into her cute little prius and hit Coronado! What an amazing place and can I just say I want to own a house right on the beach there! And I will do it, eventually. We walked along the beach taking pictures.
Then had a great lunch and margaritas. We had a few things we had to pick up at the store, so we ended up going to the store on the way home. None of us were hungry for dinner, so we just hung out that night. Well actually we were talking about what things my cousin still needed, and she mentioned the car seat and stroller – in that same moment the door bell rang and they both had arrived! A little freaky. Well of course, we dove right into them both. They got the Orbit Baby – and can I just say WOW! This is a car seat and stroller in one and it rotates 360 degrees. We had the best time playing with it.
Saturday finally came and it was BABY SHOWER TIME! The shower started at 11 am, of course we forgot some things, and had to go to the store AGAIN. We finished all the food, and decorations.
We ended up doing the following for food… cucumber dip with pita chips, spinach dip in a bread bowl, grapes, strawberries, pasta salad, tuna salad, tri tip sandwiches, lemon bars and truffles.
My cousin’s friend, Darci was in charge of the party favors. She did such a great job. She ended up painting individual pots, putting ribbon on them, and planting a flower inside them. Then she added a cute pink baby sucker to them all AND live lady bugs. Now she arrives with all the plants and then tells me we need to put these 1500 live lady bugs into these cute pink bags. HAHA – she didn’t account for the fact that they fly.
Now, the baby shower was so much fun! We had no food left, which I guess is a good thing. And we went through so much booze, I was shocked! We had pink slushes that were a big hit, wine (red and white) , beer and champagne.
My cousin opened all her presents, she got some VERY cool stuff and I think is set for the first few months on just about everything. Everyone had a great time, Lisa and Sean ended up getting some great stuff and managed to see some great family and friends before the big day – one month from the baby shower.
We ended up spending a quite night at the house, eating ice cream and feeling the baby moving around.
Unfortunately we had to leave Sunday morning and drive the almost 8 hours back home… my beautiful cousin will be having her baby girl in the next few weeks. We are so excited! I’ll be sure to post updates.
Lisa, we love you so very much. Thank you for letting us be a part of this amazing time in your life. We can’t wait to meet your new bundle of joy!
Jennifer
Jennifer
May 3, 2010
Honeymoon in Paris
The City of Lights is notoriously romantic and expensive. Here are tips for a dreamy Paris honeymoon that won't leave you broke.
Travel during the shoulder season. You can save 10 percent or more on lodging if you travel in April, May, November or December.
Skip the breakfast upgrade. Hotels' continental breakfasts can cost up to $30 a person per day, which is a waste. Adorable patisseries are on every corner, and $10 will get you a couple of pastries and two creamy cups of cafe au lait. Which means more money for dinner!
Take the Metro. Dont' worry about a rental car, best used in the countryside, not the city or expensive taxicabs. The Metro train is easy to navigate and has stops near all the popular monuments. Buy a pack of tickets, and each one-way ride will cost about $1.65.
Visit websites first. Once you've decided what you want to do, hit an Internet cafe; some attractions and tours offer discounted rates you'll find only online.
Get your free on. Some of Paris' prettiest sights don't cost a thing. Wander past the Champs-Elysees, Luxembourg Gardens or Eiffel Tower.
Enjoy your honeymoon!!!
(Courtesy of Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, April 2010 edition)
Travel during the shoulder season. You can save 10 percent or more on lodging if you travel in April, May, November or December.
Skip the breakfast upgrade. Hotels' continental breakfasts can cost up to $30 a person per day, which is a waste. Adorable patisseries are on every corner, and $10 will get you a couple of pastries and two creamy cups of cafe au lait. Which means more money for dinner!
Take the Metro. Dont' worry about a rental car, best used in the countryside, not the city or expensive taxicabs. The Metro train is easy to navigate and has stops near all the popular monuments. Buy a pack of tickets, and each one-way ride will cost about $1.65.
Visit websites first. Once you've decided what you want to do, hit an Internet cafe; some attractions and tours offer discounted rates you'll find only online.
Get your free on. Some of Paris' prettiest sights don't cost a thing. Wander past the Champs-Elysees, Luxembourg Gardens or Eiffel Tower.
Enjoy your honeymoon!!!
(Courtesy of Destination Weddings and Honeymoons, April 2010 edition)
April 30, 2010
Summer Solstice Party
Oh my! The summer solstice party is a growing. I sat down with an initial list and had about 150 people on the list. Now, I’ve had parties this big in the past and although I’ve enjoyed them, I just didn’t know if I wanted this party to be one of those. So, I got it down to about 60 people and was feeling very pretty good until I started running into people and realized I’d forgotten a BUNCH of folks. So then I went back to the drawing board and we’re up to around 174 and I need to pare down AGAIN!
So, today I’m going to talk about whom do you cut and who do you leave on your invitation list! If I were to put it out there to all the people I know casually, professionally, family, and friends the numbers could hit astronomical numbers. But I can’t afford to have a party for that many people – at least not until my daughter gets married. So, where do you begin when you’ve got too many names and not enough dough?
First I write down all my dearest of friends. The ones who I enjoy being around and can’t live without. In all honesty – this number is only around 15. Then you add the friends you don’t see very often, but when you do see them you remember how much you enjoy them. Then you add in the friends that are a little more on the fringe, not because you don’t like them, but because life, work, things get in the way. Forget about all the “shoulds” you know, the ones who you work with, are in organizations together and are friends of friends. This is your party and it should reflect the kind of energy you want. So, with all of that – I’m at around 75. Good number. Not everyone will attend, but I bet I have around 50 who are there. And that’s a nice size party for my backyard and my budget.
Next week – I get to budget for my 50 friends I think will attend and I’ll talk invitations and themes.
Deb
So, today I’m going to talk about whom do you cut and who do you leave on your invitation list! If I were to put it out there to all the people I know casually, professionally, family, and friends the numbers could hit astronomical numbers. But I can’t afford to have a party for that many people – at least not until my daughter gets married. So, where do you begin when you’ve got too many names and not enough dough?
First I write down all my dearest of friends. The ones who I enjoy being around and can’t live without. In all honesty – this number is only around 15. Then you add the friends you don’t see very often, but when you do see them you remember how much you enjoy them. Then you add in the friends that are a little more on the fringe, not because you don’t like them, but because life, work, things get in the way. Forget about all the “shoulds” you know, the ones who you work with, are in organizations together and are friends of friends. This is your party and it should reflect the kind of energy you want. So, with all of that – I’m at around 75. Good number. Not everyone will attend, but I bet I have around 50 who are there. And that’s a nice size party for my backyard and my budget.
Next week – I get to budget for my 50 friends I think will attend and I’ll talk invitations and themes.
Deb
April 19, 2010
Summer Solstice Party
Hi Everyone and welcome back to the blog. Here in Flagstaff, the sun was shining all weekend and the weather was nothing short of fantastic. I got to spend all day Saturday making my front yard presentable, clearing away the leaves and cleaning up trash that obviously came in on a wind gust and was trapped for months under our 12 feet of snow. Now that the snow is melting, and the front yard is fixed up, I can concentrate all my evenings and weekends on the backyard and getting everything ready for the Summer Solstice party.
The Annual Summer Solstice Party is by far my favorite party of the year. There is nothing that brings me greater joy than bringing together all my friends and family to enjoy perfect weather, great food and a good time.
This year’s Summer Solstice Party is going to be the best one to date. (okay, I say that every year – and every year I’m right!!!) It’s only April, so I do have some time and time is one thing a planner will consider a gift. I’ve got a few months to continue with the backyard and more than likely I’ll be “redecorating” right up to the moment people arrive. So, what am I doing a few months out? Here’s my list for this week:
1. Make guest list and design invitations. I haven’t decided if I want to mail them out, use facebook, use email or a combination. My first choice is to go to About Memories and More and let Kirstin help me design the perfect invite, spend a few evenings putting them together and then mailing them out. While this is my first pick, I don’t have everyone’s address and I don’t want them to think I’m only inviting them “after the fact”. So, I either have to get everyone’s addresses and thankfully there is enough time, or email everyone.
2. I’m trying to envision how I want the party to look. Now, I’d love to have fresh cut flowers everywhere, but my gardens won’t be producing “cut” flowers until August, and I’d rather invest in perennials than flower arrangements. Last year I had a total garden theme even using terra cotta planters to hold food. BTW – if you soak the terra cotta in ice cold water for an hour before serving it will help keep your food cold. But the lining of the pots was time consuming.
3. Next I’m thinking about the menu. I’ve already gotten requests for some of the appetizers and I know Satchmos BBQ is always a hit, so food I can wait until June to work on.
4. Seating – This is always a challenge with a party. If you make sure everyone can sit and enjoy their food, then you run the risk of everyone clumping into groups. I try to have seating vignettes throughout the yard and that way people can still mingle. I’ll have to visit the budget for this one.
5. Entertainment – do we all mingle which is always fun, and I try to have some great outdoor games available and set up, but do I want to go DJ and possibly have dancing? Again, I must check the budget and make sure it’s the feel for the event.
Well, these are just a few of the things I’m working on for the party – next time I’ll bring in more things to consider.
Take care and MAKE YOUR LIFE AN EVENT!!
Debbi
The Annual Summer Solstice Party is by far my favorite party of the year. There is nothing that brings me greater joy than bringing together all my friends and family to enjoy perfect weather, great food and a good time.
This year’s Summer Solstice Party is going to be the best one to date. (okay, I say that every year – and every year I’m right!!!) It’s only April, so I do have some time and time is one thing a planner will consider a gift. I’ve got a few months to continue with the backyard and more than likely I’ll be “redecorating” right up to the moment people arrive. So, what am I doing a few months out? Here’s my list for this week:
1. Make guest list and design invitations. I haven’t decided if I want to mail them out, use facebook, use email or a combination. My first choice is to go to About Memories and More and let Kirstin help me design the perfect invite, spend a few evenings putting them together and then mailing them out. While this is my first pick, I don’t have everyone’s address and I don’t want them to think I’m only inviting them “after the fact”. So, I either have to get everyone’s addresses and thankfully there is enough time, or email everyone.
2. I’m trying to envision how I want the party to look. Now, I’d love to have fresh cut flowers everywhere, but my gardens won’t be producing “cut” flowers until August, and I’d rather invest in perennials than flower arrangements. Last year I had a total garden theme even using terra cotta planters to hold food. BTW – if you soak the terra cotta in ice cold water for an hour before serving it will help keep your food cold. But the lining of the pots was time consuming.
3. Next I’m thinking about the menu. I’ve already gotten requests for some of the appetizers and I know Satchmos BBQ is always a hit, so food I can wait until June to work on.
4. Seating – This is always a challenge with a party. If you make sure everyone can sit and enjoy their food, then you run the risk of everyone clumping into groups. I try to have seating vignettes throughout the yard and that way people can still mingle. I’ll have to visit the budget for this one.
5. Entertainment – do we all mingle which is always fun, and I try to have some great outdoor games available and set up, but do I want to go DJ and possibly have dancing? Again, I must check the budget and make sure it’s the feel for the event.
Well, these are just a few of the things I’m working on for the party – next time I’ll bring in more things to consider.
Take care and MAKE YOUR LIFE AN EVENT!!
Debbi
April 7, 2010
Spring in Flagstaff is Here
Happy Spring! The winds are howling, the temps are hovering in the 50s and the last thing anyone wants to do is go outside. However, I’ve been stuck inside for so long I’m willing to brave the 60 MPH winds and get back to life in the yard.
While writing this blog, I thought it might be fun to kick off the outdoor entertaining season. There is no place I’d rather entertain guests than in my backyard in the summer. The beautiful flowers, the green grass and all the trees seem to form the perfect outdoor room and I only have to add a few perks at the beginning of the summer and it’s ready at a moment’s notice.
Here I am talking about summer entertaining and it’s only April. In Flagstaff, we’ve had over 140 inches of snow and my backyard isn’t up to snuff, and so April is the month I spend getting it all put back together. I stepped out on the back deck this morning and began the making a list of what I need to do to get everything ready for May.
First up…. The decks need to be power washed and if needed stained. Now my lower deck will be fine with a good scrub, but my upper deck needs to be stained. It’s been a hard winter and last year’s stain didn’t hold up as well as I’d have liked. Once the decks are cleaned and polished, I can start pulling out the furniture. I always like to take hot soapy water and a sponge and wipe down all the tables and chairs – that way if a guest shows up and wants to sit down, a family of spider webs along the bottom of your chairs won’t be a worry. I also do a good scrub to the fabric cushions. They should all be outdoor fabrics and they can handle and usually need to be cleaned.
Once your deck and furniture is cleaned – it’s time to decorate! I like to start with lighting. I’ve done everything from tiki torches to outside twinkle lights to paper lanterns to candles. Try and look at your yard as a room and throw in some up lighting by the trees, hang lights from the tree branches and then treat your actual entertaining spaces as a living room. I’ve added overhead lighting, candlelight and mood lighting where appropriate. If you’ve got outdoor outlets plug in a lamp or two.
Now that the furniture and lighting is dialed in, it’s time for the accessories. I’m a huge fan of fabric. I’ve taken something as simple as a canvas drop cloth, painted it and then used it as swags on my upper deck, then gone in the opposite direction and swaged fabric from my pergola. The effect is dramatic and also defining. When people step outside, I like to set it up as an outdoor living space – I’ve got a dining space, a conversational area and then off the master bedroom, I usually place a chaise, complete with eyelet pillows and a throw for warmth. I like to move my indoor plants outside for the muted sunlight and suddenly the upper deck goes from blah to a warm and inviting place, ready for my girlfriends to come over for an afternoon of wine and relaxation.
Get your backyard in shape and then you can entertain at the drop of a dime. Always keep a nice bottle of wine on hand a few entertaining staples and if Mother’s day finds the celebration at your house, you can smile and welcome the celebration.
While writing this blog, I thought it might be fun to kick off the outdoor entertaining season. There is no place I’d rather entertain guests than in my backyard in the summer. The beautiful flowers, the green grass and all the trees seem to form the perfect outdoor room and I only have to add a few perks at the beginning of the summer and it’s ready at a moment’s notice.
Here I am talking about summer entertaining and it’s only April. In Flagstaff, we’ve had over 140 inches of snow and my backyard isn’t up to snuff, and so April is the month I spend getting it all put back together. I stepped out on the back deck this morning and began the making a list of what I need to do to get everything ready for May.
First up…. The decks need to be power washed and if needed stained. Now my lower deck will be fine with a good scrub, but my upper deck needs to be stained. It’s been a hard winter and last year’s stain didn’t hold up as well as I’d have liked. Once the decks are cleaned and polished, I can start pulling out the furniture. I always like to take hot soapy water and a sponge and wipe down all the tables and chairs – that way if a guest shows up and wants to sit down, a family of spider webs along the bottom of your chairs won’t be a worry. I also do a good scrub to the fabric cushions. They should all be outdoor fabrics and they can handle and usually need to be cleaned.
Once your deck and furniture is cleaned – it’s time to decorate! I like to start with lighting. I’ve done everything from tiki torches to outside twinkle lights to paper lanterns to candles. Try and look at your yard as a room and throw in some up lighting by the trees, hang lights from the tree branches and then treat your actual entertaining spaces as a living room. I’ve added overhead lighting, candlelight and mood lighting where appropriate. If you’ve got outdoor outlets plug in a lamp or two.
Now that the furniture and lighting is dialed in, it’s time for the accessories. I’m a huge fan of fabric. I’ve taken something as simple as a canvas drop cloth, painted it and then used it as swags on my upper deck, then gone in the opposite direction and swaged fabric from my pergola. The effect is dramatic and also defining. When people step outside, I like to set it up as an outdoor living space – I’ve got a dining space, a conversational area and then off the master bedroom, I usually place a chaise, complete with eyelet pillows and a throw for warmth. I like to move my indoor plants outside for the muted sunlight and suddenly the upper deck goes from blah to a warm and inviting place, ready for my girlfriends to come over for an afternoon of wine and relaxation.
Get your backyard in shape and then you can entertain at the drop of a dime. Always keep a nice bottle of wine on hand a few entertaining staples and if Mother’s day finds the celebration at your house, you can smile and welcome the celebration.
March 22, 2010
What's in your bag?
Kirsten with About Memories and More posted a blog about her purse and I decided since I'm not feeling very well today that I would play along. And its another excuse for a Blog I have been meaning to write.
Here is my purse, and its my mom's. I love her purses! I enjoy purses a lot, and I like expensive ones, but I save those for boyfriends (now all ex boyfriends) to buy them for me. Its an evil plan. I am currently in search of a dark purple purse, but no luck. Well that's not true, I need a purple purse under $30.
Basic things are in my purse. A notepad and paper - because it seems I am always running from meeting to meeting. I usually have my calendar too but that's on my desk to update for the week. I have lipstick even though I wear the chapstick more. Asprin because you just never know. Trident gum. Eye Drops. Kleenex. Nail File. Comb. Powder and a brush to apply it (I get shiny throughout the day). And my dooney and Bourke Wallet - I love it. It smells like leather everytime I open it. No cash - I never carry cash. Pretty simple.
What's in your bag?
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