Artistry by Carolyn: TREATS FOR YOUR SWEETS!!!

Artistry by Carolyn: TREATS FOR YOUR SWEETS!!!: Valentines Day is approaching soon, don't be left in the last minute gift loop.  Get his/her gifts from www.etsy.com/shop/artistrybycarolyn ...

TREATS FOR YOUR SWEETS!!!

Valentines Day is approaching soon, don't be left in the last minute gift loop.  Get his/her gifts from www.etsy.com/shop/artistrybycarolyn   Custom orders are available. 

Custom jewelry for all occassions

You can now purchase my custom jewelry pieces on-line at www.etsy.com/shop/artistrybycarolyn

Visit the site today and create your wish list from the items posted or order your own custom piece.  Everyone has a unique signature with the jewelry and accessories that they choose to wear.  Now is the time for you to adorn yourself with your own signature style.  Artistry by Carolyn not only does Weddings & Events but designs it's own jewelry line as well. 

I look forward to filling your orders today.  Gifts, anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, or special occassions I have something for you.

Common Mistakes that Bride's Make

In the Wedding and Event Planning business details are crucial to pulling off as close to perfect of an event as possible. Below are some common mistakes that should be avoided if you want to leave your guest talking in a good way:

#1. Hire a Wedding Coordinator

Not hiring a planner is a critical mistake for various reasons starting with, "Who is going to do what?" Family and friends may volunteer but face the fact that they are not professionals. Let your guests be guests. The coordinator will make sure that all facets of the wedding and reception are running smoothly, they will handle all negotiations (within your contract) with vendors, venue, decor', set up/breakdown and not to mention the unwanted party crashers. Take a breath, relax and let the coordinator do his/her job. I have never had a bride complain about using a planner; in fact they say that it's the best money that they spent.

#2. Budget

First things first...have a concise budget and stick with it. Money is the major stress of weddings; make budget your priority after getting engaged. Sit down with all parties participating and go over your game plan. Don't wast time looking at venues that you can't afford or looking at centerpieces, floral arrangements and menu's that will leave you in debt way beyond the "honeymoon stage". Inform your vendors of your allotted budget for their services without compromise. Your honeymoon should also be included in this cost.

#3. Over Accommodation

This is your day and should be as Unique and Special as you are. It's easy to get caught up with trying to please everyone but let's be clear, this is one occasion where it is all about you! Opinions of others are just that and should not weigh on your decisions about your wedding. Don't feel guilty either as it's okay to have it your way.

#4. Excessive Control

The term" Bridezilla" is most commonly used to describe a bride that has turned as green as the hulk with the temperament of King Kong fighting Godzilla while on a quest to have his way. This is what happens to the most pleasant Bride if she refuses to give up the control. Having the attitude that nobody is capable of doing their part is going to leave you more frustrated, unpleasant to be around and few friends less than what you started out with. Having your vision and wanting things to go perfect is expected, but trying to control everything as if you are running a training camp is not a good look. After all, if you turn off your friends during the wedding process due to a controlling attitude who are you going to celebrate all of the happy times with later on down the road. Keep the peace and let go!

Ask Carolyn: How to have Successful Garden Parties

It's that time of the year when we find ourselves entertaining company by having cookouts, pool and dinner parties.  The question "How do I have a successful garden party" keeps coming up.  Here are some tips: 

1. Have a variety of light, yet filling appetizers such as an assortment of melon balls, grapes and strawberries.  This will keep your guest's hydrated during the afternoon heat.
2. Chicken/Turkey/Vegetable wraps are always a favorite and this keeps you from leaving out vegetarian options.
3. Iced Tea, citrus water and frozen alcoholic beverages are a must.  Everyone can appreciate refreshing cocktails.
4. Desserts served in shot glasses is a creative way to keep hands free of utensils all while providing perfect portions for seconds. 
5. Although ladies love wearing high heels, having a basket with an assortment of sizes of disposable flip-flops to change into will be a "HIT".  This option keeps them comfortable and prevents your manicured lawn from getting tortured. 

Provide protection from the sun with shaded areas, sunscreen and outside fans.  Keep the citranella candles burning and enjoy this garden party season. 

For tips or advice on your next event or wedding just, "Ask Carolyn!"

Top Mistakes that Brides Make...

In the Wedding and Event Planning business details are crucial to pulling off as close to perfect of an event as possible.  Below are some common mistakes that should be avoided if you want to leave your guest talking in a good way:

#1.  Hire a Wedding Coordinator

  Not hiring a planner is a critical mistake for various reasons starting with, "Who is going to do what?"  Family and friends may volunteer but face the fact that they are not professionals.  Let your guests be guests.  The coordinator will make sure that all facets of the wedding and reception are running smoothly, they will handle all negotiations (within your contract) with vendors, venue, decor', set up/breakdown and not to mention the unwanted party crashers.  Take a breath, relax and let the coordinator do his/her job.  I have never had a bride complain about using a planner; in fact they say that it's the best money that they spent. 

#2.  Budget

First things first...have a concise budget and stick with it.  Money is the major stress of weddings; make budget your priority after getting engaged.  Sit down with all parties participating and go over your game plan. Don't wast time looking at venues that you can't afford or looking at centerpieces, floral arrangements and menu's that will leave you in debt way beyond the "honeymoon stage".  Inform your vendors of your allotted budget for their services without compromise.  Your honeymoon should also be included in this cost.

#3.  Over Accommodation

This is your day and should be as Unique and Special as you are.  It's easy to get caught up with trying to please everyone but let's be clear, this is one occasion where it is all about you!  Opinions of others are just that and should not weigh on your decisions about your wedding.  Don't feel guilty either as it's okay to have it your way. 

#4.  Excessive Control

The term" Bridezilla" is most commonly used to describe a bride that has turned as green as the hulk with the temperament of King Kong fighting Godzilla while on a quest to have his way.  This is what happens to the most pleasant Bride if she refuses to give up the control.  Having the attitude that nobody is capable of doing their part is going to leave you more frustrated, unpleasant to be around and few friends less than what you started out with.  Having your vision and wanting things to go perfect is expected, but trying to control everything as if you are running a training camp is not a good look.  After all, if you turn off your friends during the wedding process due to a controlling attitude who are you going to celebrate all of the happy times with later on down the road.  Keep the peace and let go!

"When it has to be done right." Artistry by Carolyn, LLC

Carolyn Russ is a Certified Wedding and Event planner specializing in American and Muli-Cultural Weddings, Corporate events, Bar Mitzvah, Sweet Sixteen and other special occasions. When experience, professionalism and attention to detail matter, I can bring your vision to life. "Relax" and let me handle the rest. For additional information, visit our website at: http://www.wix.com/artistrybycarolyn/artistry. I look forward to making your Wedding or Event a memorable occasion!