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Bridal Belts Accentuate A Beautiful Waistline

2012-02-15T15:02:00Z

Ever since Kate Middleton wore a belt with her wedding dress the bridal belt has become the newest trend for wedding gowns. They help to accentuate the waistline, creating a more glamorous look and sleek figure.

Most bridal belts come in white or ivory, and have a variety of rhinestones, crystals and decorative accents to add more glamor to the dress. You can also use a plain belt and add a brooch from your family jewels to make it more personal.

A belt is a brilliant way to customize a dress you bought off a rack, and make it appear to be custom-made, or to dramatize and make a simple dress look more elaborate.

There is such a selection to choose from, and each belt adds a different look or dimension to the same dress. With this you can customize your taste, and the look will be totally you!

The best part of the wedding belt/sash is that you can adjust the length for any waistline. Your seamstress can simply cut the sash to the length you wish, or you can tie it in the back so it can be passed down to another and not have to be adjusted.

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Decorating with Parasols

2012-02-13T15:00:00Z

Decorating with parasols can really add pizzazz to your event. They are relatively inexpensive, and come in a variety of colors and sizes so you can mix and match, or follow your color theme.

Parasols can provide shade to your guests at your garden party or outdoor wedding. Provide each of your guests, or couples, with their own parasol, they will appreciate the consideration and feel as if their comfort is your main concern, especially if it is very sunny day.

You can place them in a decorative stand at the back of the entrance to the ceremony so your guests can choose to take them as they enter the room or walk down the aisle to their seats (Ask them to lower the parasol during the ceremony though, so others can see the event as well). You can also line them along the path to your outside gazebo and illuminate them for a sensational tropical effect, or mix and match them with hanging lanterns.

Parasols also make unique decor for outdoor patios, hanging them from your gazebo or a nearby tree. You can turn them upside down and add flowers, or as a shade for decorative lighting, either using Christmas light strings or making each an individual light (DIY ideas for lighting can be found at your local hardware store) for an even more spectacular impact. Placing them at different heights and angles will also add a dramatic touch.

There are even parasols you can decorate yourself, and using your imagination can make them uniquely yours – following your party theme and décor.

For those of you who have an outdoor living area, have a parasol close by in case you need it on an extremely sunny day – or for guests who are sun sensitive. They can be part of your normal décor, and taken down when needed.

Creativity makes your event unique, and your guests talking about it for a long time.

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Everyone’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day

2012-02-11T15:00:00Z

On St. Patrick’s Day (March 17^th) everyone is Irish, no matter what their natural origin is. Rivers and beer run green, and people – at least for one day, think the luck of the Irish rubs off on them.

Hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party is one of the easiest to arrange – anything green will work as a décor item. Trinity/Shamrock place card holders make great favors to show your guests where to sit, or just to have as favors.

Food consists of corned beef and cabbage, ham sandwiches on rye bread, scalloped potatoes, spinach dip and soda crackers, Irish coffee and Irish (Guiness) or green beer (beer with green food coloring added). For children, shamrock-shaped cookies, green punch (like lime sherbet with 7-up) and pistachio pudding (mixed with crushed pineapple and marshmallows) are a big hit.

Irish weddings set on St. Patrick's Day are even more special, bringing the luck of the Irish to bless the union. So many wonderful wedding accessories are available to use for this special occasion.

The Irish love music, and the more lively and uplifting the better. Get a CD of classic Irish pub songs, or hold a karaoke with only Irish songs.

The Irish are also fond of limericks, so a contest for the best limerick would be a nice addition (especially after a few green jello shots!) . Give the winner of the contest a gift with an Irish theme .

Slainte!

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Wedding Dress Shopping On A Budget

2012-02-08T14:45:00Z

Your wedding is a day devoted especially to you and your partner. Most women dream, from a little girl on up, as to what their wedding will be like, who they will marry, and the dress they will wear.

As we entertain the idea of getting married we look at bridal magazines, bridal shops and online to see what is in style, what you think will look like your dream on you, and only when you are down to actually shopping for the dress do you get "sticker shock."

Weddings are getting more expensive each year, not only with inflation but with the many items a bride thinks she needs to have to make her day perfect. There are all the arrangements for the service and the reception, picking the caterers and cake decorators, choosing a theme (optional), who to invite, room decorations and favors, showers, etc. So much to think of and there never seems to be enough time.

Even with all these arrangements, though, the wedding dress is the center of attention. If you have the money to purchase a couture fashion you are lucky. If not, you are always on the lookout for that dress that will make you feel like the princess of your dreams.

In this day and age, finding a wedding dress online that can be handmade to fit is not that difficult. It is always a good idea to find a style you like at the local bridal shops, then comparison shop online for a style similar.

Online dress shopping does not have to be a nightmare. If you take careful measurements (making sure you have a well-fitting bra when you take the measurements), and following the directions on the website will guarantee you will get the right size. If your body falls in between sizes, go up. It's a lot easier to take a dress in than it is to let it out. Keep in mind that not all manufacturers size their dresses the same, so measurements are especially important.

Unfortunately, due to theft, and abuse, most dress sales online are final. There are a few exceptions, however, so read the fine print carefully before selecting.

Feel comfortable with your purchase, it is the most important dress you may ever wear.

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Liven Up The Crowd With A Mardi Gras Theme

2012-02-06T14:43:00Z

Nobody throws a party like New Orleans, and there is no party bigger than Mardi Gras . It’s a popular theme for a proms, weddings, banquets, fundraisers or showers because the upbeat theme just shouts “good time.”

Bright colors of Mardi Gras include purple, gold and lime green. Checkerboard, diamond, fleur di lis and damask patterns are usually included in the decor, and are extremely popular and easy to find now.

Entertainment for a Mardi Gras theme party could include costumes of jesters, kings and queens, and a vast selection of beads, ceramic and feathered masks . It ALWAYS includes lively Jazz music, and LOTS of singing and dancing.

Of course, Mardi Gras wouldn’t be the same without lots of great Cajun food. Search the web for crayfish, beans and rice, and all sorts of fried foods that make up the Louisiana cuisine.

For a fun and memorable event - A Mardi Gras theme is definitely the theme to liven up the crowd.

Potluck Party

2012-02-04T14:42:59Z

Potlucks are the most economical and host/hostess-friendly way to entertain. With everyone pitching in with a dish it doesn't cost the host/hostess nearly as much as if she were doing all the cooking, and it definitely saves her time in preparation. Sharing the work gives the host/hostess so much more time to enjoy the guests. NOTE: Keep in mind there may be some guests with food allergies or diet restrictions, so ask ahead of time and plan for that.

Another great thing about potlucks - you get to try a variety of dishes! Your guests will have a chance to show off their favorite dishes, and they won't feel guilty that the host/hostess has done so much work to put the party together.

Potlucks have become more and more common in our busy world, and for good reason as indicated above. The cost of food has risen, and time is so much more demanding of us. This allows us to entertain more, and still afford it.

If you are worried about having too many desserts and not enough main dishes, give our guests a category from which to choose: appetizers, main dish, dessert, beverages, condiments, side dishes, or plates/glasses. Note: cupcakes have become quite popular for any event, and great for potlucks!

Here are a couple ideas:
Classic Cheese Lasagna

1 pound whole-milk ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 pound fresh mozzarella

Preheat oven to 375. Combine ricotta, egg, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl. Season with pepper. Coarsely grate 1/2 of the mozzarella, and stir into ricotta mixture. Using your fingers, shred remaining mozzarella into 2-inch strips, and reserve.
Spread 1/2 cup marinara in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of noodles over marinara. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over noodles, and sprinkle with 1/3 of the Parmesan. Place a layer of noodles over the cheese layer. Spread 1 cup marinara over noodles. Repeat layering (noodles, marinara, noodles, ricotta mixture, Parmesan) 2 more times. Spread remaining marinara over cheese layer, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
Place baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until cheese is golden brown and sauce is bubbling, 45 to 50 minutes. Let stand for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. (Serves 8) (recipe from MarthaStewart.com)

Sweet Corn Potluck Pudding

1bag (12 oz) frozen corn
2 (11-oz.) cans Mexicorn® Whole Kernel Corn, Red and Green Peppers
1 (14.75-oz.) can Cream Style Sweet Corn
1 (6.5-oz.) pkg. corn muffin and bread mix
¾ cup water
¼ cup butter or margarine, melted
1 teaspoon salt

1 In 3 to 4-quart slow cooker, combine all ingredients; mix well. 2 Cover; cook on Low setting for 3 hours. 3 Stir mixture; cover and cook an additional 2 to 3 hours or until pudding is slightly puffed in center. (Serves 14) (recipe from Pillsbury.com)

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Valentine's Day Jewelry

2012-01-30T05:39:16Z

Valentine's Day is such a special day, and believe it or not, even men can be hurt if they don't get some kind of acknowledgement of how you feel about him.

It's a shame every day can't be Valentine's Day. Romance is healthy in any relationship, and it can be something as simple as cooking their favorite meal or dessert, or taking them someplace where you two made memories.

You don't have to go crazy, but putting some thought into it is important. Make his or her day special with something that shows you planned ahead.

For the lady in your life, a special gift basket full of items that will pamper her, or a lovely heart-shaped necklace or bracelet. You can present her with a personalized tote with water bottle for when she does her running or goes to the gym, or a beautiful jewelry box.

For the man in your life - if he is a sports fan you can give him a personalized photo of his favorite football star or a print with his name on it in the locker room of his basketball team. For golfers there are a number of excellent items that can be personalized, humidors for those cigar smokers, or a personalized poker set.

Plan a beautiful candlelight dinner - either at your favorite restaurant or at home, and make sure the kids are out for the evening.

Romance is not just meant for one day out of the year, but Valentine's Day is geared toward love, so made sure they are not feeling neglected on this special day, then make it habit to have this type of romantic interlude at least once a month.

Happy Valentine's Day!

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Raising Money for your Prom

2012-01-22T20:07:00Z

A Prom is the biggest social event of the school year, and if you are a Senior it is the last hurrah before graduation.

Proms, however, is expensive to put on, so many schools hold fundraisers in order to raise the money to keep the ticket costs down.

Fundraisers can be held at lunch time, after school, or on weekends, and there are a variety of different things that can be done in order to raise the money. Here are a few examples:

A car washes or bake sale (doesn’t raise a lot of money)
Large yard sale - where people donate items they don’t want and the Prom committee keeps the proceeds.
Personalized Water bottles with the school name and logo, or special design and text, or sell other favors that are fairly inexpensive when purchased in quantities, and can be sold at a higher price for profit.
Entirely edible Picture cookies
Sponsor a street dance in the school’s parking lot or in the gym (more casual than the prom, and charge admission at the door)
Have a talent show – give a prize to the winner (or book them as part of the talent at your prom)
Hold a mini-500 – where students ride tricycles around the school track.

Any of these will help you bring in some bucks, and nothing says raising money can’t be fun!

Prom Styles Fit For The Red Carpet

2012-01-18T14:03:00Z

Your Prom is one of the most memorable times in your school life, and you plan forever on what to wear, who you will be going with, how you do your hair and all the fun you will have.

Each year styles are taken from the Red Carpet of the SAG Awards, the Oscars, and People's Choice Awards. Many young girls will try to emulate their favorite teen star. This year Selena Gomez, Miranda Cosgrove, Victoria Justice and Taylor Swift lead the pack of talented teens who look gorgeous and stand out.

Most popular this year are strapless or one-shoulder gowns - long or short, with flirty skirts and bright colors. They highlight the face and shoulders, and are modest with a touch of the devil.

Eye-catching gowns that hug the top and flow past the waist are a definite stand out as well as short flirty dresses with multiple layers of mesh skirting. This year there is definitive length that stands out, and all holds are barred.

Jewelry is a bit bare, at least around the neck. A simple stone or none at all seems to be the norm. Earrings, however, are the rage! Chandelier or dangle earrings in Swarovski crystal or cubic zirconia enhance the face and show off a youthful neckline.

Simple or ornate bracelets replace the necklace as the centerpiece of the jewelry collection. Another very popular accessory is the brooch , worn at the shoulder, on the waist, or in the hair.

Hair is usually worn back - in an upsweep or sleek ponytail, which shows off the neckline of the dress as well as opens up the view to some exoctic backs and dress designs. A glittery comb could be an accent as well.

Don't miss the other accessories to compliment the ensemble. An evening bag , and matching shoes complete the look - and you will be as dazzling as the stars on the runway!

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

No Valentine – No Problem! You Can Still Celebrate Sisterhood Day

2012-01-15T21:59:00Z

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a special someone on Valentine’s Day. Some may even think this is a good thing. That doesn’t mean you can’t party and celebrate love – friendship – sisterhood.

Luckily Valentine’s Day is on Tuesday this year, so a Non-Valentine’s Day or Sisterhood Day Party celebration on Friday or Saturday is perfect. Gather all your girlfriends together – either at a home with a large room for entertaining or rent a suite at a local motel. Send invites to bring their “jimmies” and favorite nail polish and spa treatments. If the place has a pool or hot tub, even better!

In order for it not to turn into a man-bashing party, have uplifting things in mind to do – give each other a facial and manicure/pedicure, a make-over hair-do.

You all can bring finger foods (feel good food like cheese and crackers, chocolate) and essentials for party drinks (margaritas, fuzzy navels, pink martinis, etc.) including the blender, ice, party glasses and cheese knife .

If you want to get even more festive, have each one bring a gag or spa gift . In the end, if anyone asks, you won't be lying when you say you got a Valentine from someone special!

Romantic Gift Baskets for Valentine's Day

2012-01-14T15:12:00Z

There are an assortment of fabulous gift baskets designed for romance, and perfect for Valentine's Day.

Add the magic of massage to your special someone with a gift of the Romanti c Massage Romance Gift Basket . Your special loved one will long remember the treats in store in this basket of loving gifts, including massage oil, an acrylic massager, and a massage booklet. And we've included plenty of chocolate to say I love you in good taste!

There are the basic baskets, with candy and stuffed animals, like the Hugs & Kisses Bear with Chocolates - appropriate for any age group. A tower of chocolates in heart-shaped boxes - A Love Affair with Chocolate Tower is a loving tribute to your favorite chocola-holic. Or there is the Celebration of Love and Romance picnic hamper that is perfect for a romantic afternoon.

For those with a little more fun on their mind the Naughty Weekender Lovers Kit or Love is meant to be Shared - Deluxe Kama Sutra Romance Gift Set would make interesting gift baskets with romance in clearly in mind.

These are excellent suggestions for Valentine's Day gifts, or for a gift basket to present to newlyweds. Fun, unusual and romantic gift ideas.

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Make Valentine’s Day an Intimate Affair

2012-01-12T15:09:00Z

For men, Valentine’s Day is the worst day of the year. They pick up a last minute bunch of flowers and candy and think that’s enough. Some actually go out and get jewelry. It’s more of a guilt-trip though than an intimate desire to please your mate. There is that nagging thought of a lo-ong year if they get caught empty-handed on Valentine’s Day! They shop like robots, and it looses the fun and special feeling the day was intended to have.

Valentine’s Day is more of a woman’s holiday. Their idea of showing love is to be showered and pampered by the one they love. Flowers, jewelry and chocolates are a symbol of their affection. While they pretend they don’t care if their mate forgets, but are heartbroken.

Gender is not specific to romance – men enjoy an intimate evening just as much as women do (they just don’t like to admit it). The execution is where their views seem to take a different direction.

Take all the hard feelings out of this special day by planning together to do something you each will enjoy.

The man can plan ahead by sending a romantic gift basket - full of chocolates, the Kama Sutra, and even intimate paint-boxes of chocolate.

Prepare his favorite meal and drink, light some candles around the room, send the kids off for the evening, and dress up as if you were going out (make-up, jewelry and all). It doesn’t have to cost a fortune, the intimacy and chance to relax together makes it special.

For a special touch - put on your favorite music and dance together. Sit down and snuggle together to a movie you both have been wanting to see. Then go hand-in-hand to your bedroom - following a path strew with red, heart-shaped silk petals .

It will be one of the most romantic evenings in your life, and it didn't cost a fortune.

Classroom Valentine’s Day Party for Kids

2012-01-10T15:08:00Z

As children most of us looked forward to the annual Valentine’s Day Party at school. We shopped with our mother’s for the perfect assortment, and spent hours deciding whom in the class got what Valentine. You always saved the special one for the crush in your life, without everyone knowing it. And, have one even for that icky kid who was always pulling your hair!

Valentine’s Day also is a day you should think about being sensitive to the feelings of others. It is a time of anxiety for children who don’t have money for cards of their own, or who feel out of place in the class. As a matter of fact, it should be a rule that if they bring cards they have to have one for everyone in the class. A nice idea would be to ask other parents to purchase an extra box of cards and send them in a week before the party so the teacher can discreetly give them to children who can’t afford to get some of their own.

Kid’s love Valentine’s Day! They love the cards, the chocolates and candy hearts, and they like the break in the normally boring winter by celebrating anything. This is the perfect time to get out the craft supplies and let your kid’s creativity take hold!

Perhaps a few days ahead of time the teacher can have children bring in empty Kleenex boxes and decorate them for the Valentine’s they will get at the party, or give them a homework assignment to decorate and bring in their own boxes to put their Valentines in.

Get together with the teacher to work out the length of time the party will be, and what supplies you will need to bring. Plan at least one craft, a game, and snacks.

Let them put together their own Valentine cards to take home to their parent(s). You and the teacher supply colored paper, glue, glitter, valentine shapes, stamps, yarn and whatever you can find to decorate the cards.

Keep in mind that some kids, who don’t feel like they are popular, may feel out of place at a party. Go out of your way to include these children. Let them be your assistant and pass out the supplies, or set up chairs for musical chairs, etc.

Plan a game or activity – musical chairs, Pictionary (have each child draw a picture of a Valentine-related object, life a bow and arrow or cupid).

For a treat you can bring sugar cookies cut out in the shape of a Valentine, and the kids can decorate their own. Supply frosting (simple powdered sugar mixed with butter and milk and colored in red, pink or left white) and Popsicle sticks to decorate the top. Add sprinkles and you have a treat they will love, and have fun making.

As long as everyone is included, you have the room under control, and the kids are having fun you will have a successful party!

Youth Super Bowl XLVI

2012-01-08T14:38:00Z

The adults shouldn’t have all the fun during the Super Bowl. You’ll want something to keep the kids occupied – or for those who are not particularly interested in the NFL or football.

Let the kids put together their own celebration. Decorate a room, or a section of a room, just for the kids – footballs, goal posts, jerseys in their favorite team colors. Have balloons and streamers in the same color scheme. Have them dressed in team colors or jerseys. Hang footballs from the ceiling. Let the kids help with the décor, and let them have their own snack table, decorated with a green tablecloth and make it look like a football field.

Place juice packs in a tub filled with ice. Make philly cheese-steak quesadillas - a fried tortilla filled with roast beef and cheese (you can leave out the onions for the kids), or have a large plate full of slider sandwiches – miniature versions of what you are making for the adults. You can also put a taco bar out for them to make their own.

Nachos are always fun to eat, and have a bowl of chex party mix, puppy chow (chocolate Chex cereal mixed with melted peanut butter and dusted with powdered sugar) or seasoned popcorn for snacks.

For an activity you can have the kids decorate their own cupcakes or sugar cookies. Give them each a Popsicle stick to spread different color frostings, making clean-up easier.

You may want to print some pages out of football subject so kids can draw and color (supply them with washable markers, water color pain or crayons that only show up on paper, just in case).

Super Bowl Party 2012

2012-01-07T14:25:00Z

Even if your favorite team isn’t playing in the Super Bowl you can’t let the fans of those two teams have all the fun! If your teams are in the Super Bowl, even better! Either way, you can celebrate the main event with a fabulous party!

If you think half-time isn't what it used to be – plan some activities to keep your guest entertained.

If the weather is mild, hold a football toss. You can award guest for the longest throw, or set up a hula hoop target they can toss the ball through – or a field goal area to kick the football through.

If the weather does not permit, clear out a section where they can toss a foam football or football shaped bean bags (they are easy to make – cut out football shapes out of brown fabric, sew together – leaving an open are to add dried beans, then sew the hole closed) through a hula-hoop or into a basket. The best of 5 attempts wins!

There is also Sports trivia pursuit, football charades (using a common football term), or “hot football” (similar to “hot potato, but with a football). Prizes can be food, an NFL - themed gift , or just an extra beer - depending on your budget!

Standard fare for a football party: pizzas, hot wings, sausages, submarine (hoagie) sandwiches, tortilla chips, nachos, football shaped and decorated brownies or cake. Finger foods are the best bet. You can also be creative, and can find all sorts of ideas online.

Don't forget drinks. Beer is the usual drink of choice for a Super Bowl party, served in a frosty mug is even better! You can, of course, have a non-alcohol line of beverages on hand to keep the party under control, or those who do not drink or are too young.

No matter what you serve - It's Always Time for Football!!!

Preparing for Your Holiday Party

2011-12-04T14:30:00Z

Holiday parties, whether they are just family or for a large group of friends and family, are something you want to do up in a special way. There are the extra holiday decorations, the special food you usually make only once a year, and the warm glow of fun, anticipation and joy this season brings.

You want to be prepared when the guests arrive and not have to spend the whole night in the kitchen. Trying to get everything done a few minutes before the guests arrive leaves no time for you to get ready (I have been stuck with no shower and in work clothes as early guests started to arrive. I had to leave them alone as I got ready!) Planning ahead will take the stress off of you and let you relax and enjoy your guests.

Make a checklist of what you are going to need. Shop a few days before, and not on a week-end. Then pace yourself on what you can prepare ahead of time and what has to go into the oven a few hours before. Make the do-ahead items and refrigerate or even freeze them if you can.

I would suggest you have a fountain or punch bowl that holds a basic non-alcohol punch. Another bowl could be used for an alcoholic drink - unless you are having a bar and serving cocktails.

Have the house decorated and all the serving platters and dishes out at least the day before. These things don’t require last minute placement. Plan to end all your meal preparations at least three hours before the guests are due to arrive so you have time to get yourself ready, attend to any last-minute things, and sit back and enjoy a relaxing few moments – perhaps with a glass of wine.

Right before the guests are due to arrive, turn on the party lights and light some candles. You will be able to enjoy the party along with your guests, and have a stress-free celebration.

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Uncork the Bubbles and Toast to the New Year

2011-12-02T14:06:00Z

There’s nothing as much fun, and exciting, as anticipating the possibilities of a New Year with a large group of people. Pull out the top hats and feathered tiaras, pop the cork, and toast the new year in style.

A New Year’s Eve party gives most women a reason to buy a beautiful cocktail dress and some sparkling jewelry. For some it’s the only time all year they get to dress up, and they don’t want to pull any punches.

Have your champagne chilled in a nice acrylic or aluminum ice bucket , uncork the bottle, and enjoy the evening. Those with money to spread around can use real glass champagne flutes for everyone, others resort to plastic to make their toasts. Either way, the spirit is the same.

Having a special party favor, such as a timer that is shaped like a champagne glass in an ice bucket. Each guest can set their timer to go off at midnight (synchronize the timers to all go off at the same time). What an original and fun way to send off the New Year!

Toast can be personal, directed to the host/hostess of the party, or intimate. Use humor, poetry, or off the cuff (as long as you don’t embarrass anyone) relating of a personal moment. When you have completed your toast, lift your champagne glass and sip to the honoree and the New Year.

Just remember, if you are going to drink either have a designated driver, or get a room within walking distance of the party. You don’t want to end the new year before it gets started.

Personalized Gifts Show Thoughtfulness

2011-11-30T14:03:00Z

Giving a personalized gift to anyone shows you took extra time to find just the right thing and not something you just picked up on the way to the celebration.

No matter whether the gift is for Christmas, Hanukkah, Birthday, Anniversary, or a special gift for your boss or special friend - a personalized gift will impress and excite them. If they are anything like me, personalized gifts are something I cherish much more than other gifts.

There are many wonderful personalized gifts available that won't cost and arm and a leg.
1. Family maps on canvass that show the places the family has taken on trips, or where all the members of the family are living right now are unusual and can be updated whenever you go somewhere else, or someone moves. Personalized Family Trees and Personalized Family Name signs also are a lot of fun!

2. Personalized Picture Frames can include photos that will be memorable to both of you, and a reminder of the great times you had together.

3. Personalized Jewelry is something that can be worn with pride, but passed down generations. Pocket Watches, cuff links, necklaces as well as personalized jewelry boxes and valets make wonderful gifts.

4. Personalized Executive Gifts include cigar humidors, poker sets, cigar or cigarette holders, credit card cases, money clips, paperweights and pens - just to name a few.

5. Gifts For Her include not only personalized jewelry, but totes and purses with her name or initials, a pashima scarf or spa items.

6. Gift for Him don't have to be limited to ties and cufflinks, there are pocket watches, sports team plaques with their name, and glassware.

The content of this site is intellectual material and copying of content for articles and blogs is not allowed without linking back to this site and credit given to Toni Lawrence as author. You are free to use the information in putting together a party,

Wedding and Anniversary Gifts That Will Be Remembered

2011-11-29T14:03:00Z

Searching for the perfect wedding or anniversary gift is not as difficult as it may seem. If you are not sure of the couple’s taste, a simple gift of something they could use, like a keepsake box to store memories in, would be most appropriate.

Photo Frames always are welcome. Surrounding yourself with memories of events, family, friends or your wedding makes a new couple’s home feel warm and inviting. You can get frames with personalization or character.

If they enjoy wine, and taking wine to friends, a wine carrier or storage would be an excellent choice. For those who enjoy sporting events stadium seats or coolers would come in handy.

If you want an elegant gift that is unique a pewter wedding certificate holder , engraved with their names would make a wonderful display. Another gift that can be enjoyed year after year is a Love Letter Ceremony Box , where the couple can write a letter with their thoughts on their wedding day, and open it up on an anniversary to reminisce – like a time capsule of love.

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Last Minute Gift Ideas

2011-11-27T15:13:00Z

If you are one of those who waits until the last minute to get your gifts (statistics show many men wait until 12/24 to pick up their gifts) you can still find items, but it will cost more. If you are buying online you will have to pay extra for shipping to get it there in time. The last day to order and get regular ground shipping is Dec. 16.

For Infants/Toddlers: This is the age group easiest to please. They will be happy with a box to unwrap – and play inside. Last minute items you will find for them are stuffed toys and anything that plays music. They love anything that makes sounds and has lights, or that they can cuddle up with.

For pre-school to tweens: Craft items, projects, games, puzzles and movies. Older children also want video games.

For Teens: Walkman, electronics or MP players, cameras , computer games, video games and DVD movies can’t go wrong. Just make sure they don’t already have them, or that you find things compatible with the systems they do have. Teens also like gift baskets with body sprays and soaps with scents (girls also like coordinating shower gels or bubble baths). Picture frames are also good ideas – a place to put their favorite pictures. Of course, you can’t go wrong with a gift certificate to their favorite store. Teens love to go to the mall and shop!

For Adults: A bottle of wine or alcohol (if they drink), chocolates and gift baskets of fruit, chocolates and cookies are always appropriate. Food is always in style! If they like to get out and go to the movies, purchase a gift certificate to your local movie theatre or to their favorite movie rental store. Bookstores are full of interesting subject matter as well, and audio books are very popular. Spa treatment certificates are also considerate for both sexes, and a digital picture frame , pre-loaded with photos is a personal touch that looks as if you’ve been shopping for just the perfect gift for months!

Of course, you never can go wrong by purchasing jewelry for women!

Just keep in mind that if you are ordering for Christmas you need to allow for additional shipping time. Christmas is on Sunday this year so orders placed after 12/19 will have to be extra postage or they will not be delivered.