Online Poster WINNER!!!

AND THE WINNER IS..... ADRIENNE TRENT!!!!

Making time for family is really important and what better way to remember those times then with a 18x24 High Gloss Rolled Poster. 

Online Poster Printing sponsored a Rolled Poster Giveaway and Adrienne will now be able to showcase her favorite photo as a reminder of why she works as hard as she does.  Congratulations Adrienne!

Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events

 

Magical Monday - Simply Golden

Monday's are always magical for me.  Why you ask? Usually because my weekends are filled with so much joy by spending time with my family and then church on Sunday's that on Monday morning I'm on overflow! This particular weekend Coco went on her doggy vaca (woot woot) so we cleaned early and relaxed all day before I headed out to sing with the greatest choir in the world GO UNITY!!.

Sunday! Sunday! Sunday!~ I was able to attend a wonderful bridal show by Bridal Expo Chicago at Georgios of Orland Park.  The Bridal Show Chicago hosted 66 vendors, 311 brides and well over 800 total guests.  It was great to see some of my very own trusted vendor professionals and also make new connections.  The FASHION SHOW was beyond amazing and included a total of seven (7) scenes.  As a spectator, I was able to view gowns and bridal party attire from some of the top designers in this industry ~ James Clifford, Lezu Atelier, Rina di Montella, Stephen Yearick and YSA Makino just to name a few.  From the top trends in Bridal Silhouettes to the Worlds Best Designers Showcase, every bride I had the pleasure of speaking with (not all 311..lol) was very pleased with the Top 2010 Collection provided by ten local bridal salons; not to mention the splendid eye candy sporting classic tuxedos by Black Tie Formal wear and JP Tuxedo Warehouse.  Overall, it was AWESOME!! Special Thanks to the Bridal Expo Chicago staff (Carol, Bill and Paula) for their hard work, excellent customer service.  To read my pre-event article on Examiner.com regarding this fabulous traveling Bridal Expo - click here.

All that being said - today is SIMPLY GOLDEN!

Let's talk color....so many colors, so little time! Simply Perfect Peace Events & Designs by Shay knows that even after attending a bridal show not every bride has a color palette in mind for her wedding ... if you are a bride who would rather spend time choosing the perfect photographer, florist, or invitations than trying to figure out what colors to use, we have a great answer for you! How about a classy, yet downplayed canvas of ivory and gold?

You're probably asking yourself~what's great about this combo? Well for starters, it isn't hard to find the items on your wedding related list that come in these colors ... which will save you a ton of time running all over town with a color swatch in your hand! Chiavari chairs look amazing in gold and most come complete with an ivory chair cushion that you can choose to cover if you prefer.  Now, if later down the road, you decide that you love lavender roses or something else, you can add them to the ivory and gold backdrop and nothing is lost!

Also, consider renting beautiful table top pieces with gold details and really make your guests feel like they are dining with royalty! You can even rent gold flatware to match. Either way, ivory and gold is a great place to start if the idea of coming up with a color scheme is too overwhelming after saying "yes" to the man of your dreams and months worth of wedding planning.

~Peaceful Planning

Getting Married and need assistance? Email Me for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay
Chicago Wedding Planning Examiner

Bridal Expo Chicago coming soon to Georgios Banquets of Orland Park

Bridal Expo Chicago coming soon to Georgios Banquets of Orland Park

Posted using ShareThis

Moving and Shaking while Grooving on the Greens...

Movers and Shakers took over the University Golf Club at 23520 S. Crawford for the LIVE taping with Jennifer Day of "Daylight Media Corporation".  Comedian and host Tyson Baker, aka Mr. Bronzeville, opened the evening and prepared the crowd for what was sure to be an enlightening evening of rising entrepreneurship.  Mr. Eugene D, the CEO of the Black Pages was first on deck while Victoria Knox, Kevin Burns , Mark Harris, artist Yemonja Smalls , Dwayne Hirsch, comedian  Ron Baker Jr and a few others were on deck to be interviewed by the fabulous CEO of Daylight Media Corporation, Ms. Jennifer Day.

DJ DeejyDiego AkaGlobal Anderson was on the 1's and 2's while Safia Jalila brought down the house with her illustrious voice.  Overall, the crowd was excited and the movers and shakers were in abundance. 

Special thanks to VIP staffers, Donika C Reeves Davis, Kyra Evans, Anthony Warren, Dana Horton, Tyson Baker as well as the Mayor of University Park.  Look for great things from Daylight Media Corporation and CEO Jennifer Day.

So you want to laugh? 

• Gator's Comedy Presents a Mother's Day Comedy All Star Laugh Fest, Saturday, May 8, 2010 at the All New Emil and Patricia A. Jones Convocation Center, 9501 S. King Drive, starring the original Queens of Comedy - Adele Givens, B.E.T Comedian Reggie Reg... and more.....  Tickets going fast and on Sale at Ticketmaster locations. VIP seating 219-292-1017

• The Ron Baker, Jr. Comedy Show - June 25, 2010 at Prairie State College.  ADULTS ONLY and if you missed the last one on April 9th, DON'T miss this one!  More than just a comedy show ... Get your tickets via mail for $10.. View Website

~Peaceful Planning

For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay
Chicago Wedding Planning Examiner

Win a Rolled Poster from OnlinePosterPrinting

Online Poster Printing  is sponsoring a Rolled Poster Giveaway by offering my readers a chance to showcase a favorite photo or artwork through these high-quality prints.  These digital photo enlargements will certainly make your walls stand out!

Giveaway Prize:  18x24 High Gloss Rolled Poster (for one winner)

Specifications: 1 Business Day Turnaround

Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping

Eligibility: Limited to US Residents only 18 years+

The Contest

1. Mandatory: Visit Online Poster Printing.com to check out the poster prints. Leave a comment telling me how you would use your poster. Get as creative as you like. As an event planner I would use this as a display at exhibits to showcase my business.

Optional Extra entries (1 extra entry for each action):
2. Follow me on Twitter. (If you are already following me, just say so in the comments)
3. RT my Giveaway on Twitter. Just click the Retweet button in the upper left hand corner.
4. Subscribe to me via Networked Blogs.
5. Follow me via Google Friend Connect.
(If you do any of the extra entries, please leave a comment so I know!)

The Winner
Will be selected randomly Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay

Par for the course - golf clubs make excellent venue selections

I think Golf Courses are the ultimate bang for your buck venue selection. Not only do you enjoy the convenience of not having to do your own "stuff" but you also get a fantastic view. On Tuesday I had the pleasure of visiting Bartlett Hills Golf Club during the monthly Association of Bridal Consultants meeting where we discussed the Power of Social Media. Kris D. Malandruccolo of Elegant Videos by Kris enlightened us even further on the importance of Video and Social Media.

There is a scenic view of  an emerald pond with lighted fountain and lush landscaping from the ballroom. You and your guests can enjoy the exclusive wrap-around outdoor veranda throughout the entire evening as well. Or perhaps a winter wonderland wedding with a cozy fireplace and glittered carpeting is your choice.

Bartlett Hill's staffs personalized attention to all your details is a recipe for a stress-free experience. You can even host your outdoor (or indoor) wedding ceremony here with or without booking a reception. Any season you may choose at Bartlett Hills is spectacular and memorable.  

For a personalized consultation, please call Mary Gearhart Wedding & Catering Director at 630.213.3103 or  
Email Them Today.

Bartlett Hills is a member of The Bartlett Chamber of Commerce and The Association of Bridal Consultants.
(source:  Barlett Hills Golf Club)

Read my past article regarding on-site coordinators here.
Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay

Brides Against Breast Cancer and local brides help make dreams come true

Brides Against Breast Cancer and local brides help make dreams come true

Posted using ShareThis

Brides Against Breast Cancer

Brides Against Breast Cancer is a charity wedding gown tour that goes “on the road” to approximately 40 cities per year with truckloads of discounted wedding gowns for sale.  BABC events give local brides-to-be the opportunity to find their dream gowns while making wishes come true for stage IV breast cancer patients.

Headquartered in Portland, OR, Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation™ is a non-profit organization dedicated to granting wishes, including memory-making events, for stage IV breast cancer patients, while continuing to support, educate and increase awareness of breast cancer.  

Since its founding in 1998, Making Memories has developed various fundraising divisions including Brides Against Breast Cancer™, Pink Envelope Project, Quilters Against Breast Cancer and Diamonds for Dreams.  These divisions support wish fulfillment and various educational programs of the foundation.
  

Each year, Making Memories receives thousands of wedding gowns from various manufacturers, designers, retailers and individuals for the Brides Against Breast Cancer™ Nationwide Tour of Gowns, making it the organization’s primary fundraising activity.  Gown prices range from $99 and up, including hundreds of brand name and designer gowns, some valued up to $8,000.  Tiaras, veils, crinolines and other accessories will also be offered. Bridal gown donations will also be accepted for gowns 2006 and newer. 

For more information about the tour, please visit www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org. 


Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me  for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay

Magical Monday....

If you had an opportunity to visit the 64th Annual Macy's Flower Show then you know how magical it was.  If you missed it, here are a few photo's to enjoy... 

Calling all engaged couples!!! Get the Star Treatment at Macy's Wedding & Gift Registry Event. WHEN YOU SAY?  Friday, April 23, 2010 on the 6th Floor at Macy's on State Street, 5:30pm.  Date Night starts at their Sip & Scan event featuring fun beverages, hors d'oeuvres, and great registry experts to help you create your dream registry.  Bring a helper and they can play 007 with the scan gun while you sip your drink and approve their choices.

Enjoy a Complimentary Consultation with a Clinique Expert and find out how you can both look best on the Big Day.  Free treats from Clinique, a make-up touch-up for a night out on the town for the women, and shaving advice for the men. Sounds like a wonderful evening to me..

For further information mention this BLOG and contact:
RSVP: cynthia.ortiz@macys.com
Or: 312-781-4935

OTHER PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS
Macy's Oakbrook
7:00pm
1 Oakbrook Center Mall
Oak Brook IL, 60523
3rd Floor
RSVP: virginia.noonan@macys.com
Or: 630-684-2153

Macy's Woodfield
1 Woodfield Mall
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Lower Level
RSVP: margaret.sepsey@macys.com
Or: 847-706-6291

Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me  for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay

Welcome to the Ultimate Blog Party 2010!

Everyone knows I love a great party! So grab your favorite snack and something to drink and enjoy a sneak peak into my world. At Simply Perfect Peace Event & Designs by Shay we discuss all things weddings, events and creative design.

I come from a large family and every year we have a family weekend where we come together and celebrate "us".  This year all 43 of us will be hanging out in Wisconsin!!! Should be a blast..

I am a wife, mother of a professional athlete, college student, tweener and grandmother to a dog named CoCo.  Funny story about Ms. CoCo ~ she arrived by way of Wyoming when my then college student son and his girlfriend were convinced they could have a puppy so my husband drove 14 hours to deliver her and I believe two months later back to retrieve her..

I am a daughter, sister to five siblings, aunt to I believe 18 nieces and nephews, friend, runner (when weather is nice) choir member, crazy cheer/basketball/football fan and most recently a freelance journalist. 

I began blogging probably a year ago and have been hooked ever since.

Two Random Facts:  
1. In November, 2005 I made the conscious decision to cut all my hair off and go "natural".  2.My son is currently playing basketball in Israel.

That's pretty much it about me.. what can we learn about you today?? Add your McLinky over on 5 minutes for mom and let’s party! And be sure to follow the party at #UBP10 on Twitter.. and me too!

 

Follow me on Twitter

Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me  for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay

Macy's bring a floral wonderland to its Chicago's State street store

Macy's bring a floral wonderland to its Chicago's State street store

Posted using ShareThis

Reafirm and Renew .... Let's Do It Again

What's a renewal of vows? Is it different from Reaffirmation?

These are two questions that I've been asked from couples that did not have the ceremony of choice OR it was so good the first time they want to do it again. Whether you've been married one year or 100 there are a few rules that apply to "Doing It Again"

Wedding vow renewal is just that.... renewal! They are NOT a second marriage. Unless just by chance the happily ever after had a detour and you and your spouse divorced and are now remarrying, this is not a second wedding. This is, however, an opportunity to perhaps have your marriage blessed by the church and reaffirm your marriage vows and love of one another.

Bachelor / bachelorette parties are intended for your “last night out as a single person”, so, as a married couple, let this ship pass on by. Additionally, the bridal shower is a time when family and friends can shower you with items needed to begin your married life. You're already in your married life so this won’t work either. When it comes to vow renewals, encourage friends and family to shower you with love and support, rather than gifts.

While a vow renewal or reaffirmation is a celebratory occasion, it is generally not viewed as a gift-giving situation. Although, writing “no gifts please” on a wedding invitation is not acceptable, it is acceptable to include such wording in a vow renewal invitation. A reaffirmation is a ceremony and party you are hosting for yourself and if connected to an anniversary then some people may want to give you an anniversary gift. In this case, be sure to send out "thank you notes" in a timely manner.

Have a good time, enjoy the fact that you made it and actualy want to do it again! Weddings are typically about proclaiming your love with a big dress, big ceremony and reception and big fancy cake. The renewal ceremony is more of a simple, understated, private affair. However, if you want to recreate your original wedding - GO FOR IT

So, leave the train at home and gather your attendants (now attendees) and let's celebrate renewed love. This celebration is far less stressful then you’re wedding. Think about it, you've already been "given away" so the father doesn't need to publicly show his approval or support of the marriage. There is no need to have a processional so either you and your husband can come down together or your children and grandchildren may accompany you down the aisle.

Flowers are perfect for any occasion, and your reaffirmation ceremony is no exception. Put together your bouquet with care and consideration, so that it reflects your love for one another. Reaffirmation rings are too part of the ceremony. You may have a real connection to your wedding rings, but this could also be a great time for an upgrade.

After the ceremony, because you are the host, graciously greet your guests! Enjoy a loving dance with your husband symbolizing the first dance into the next phase of their life together.

Let them eat cake! Who doesn't enjoy a good cake? The reaffirmation cake is not a wedding cake but sometimes recreated from the couple’s wedding, including the topper. However, this should be more of an 'anniversary' type cake. So, including writing on the cake would be appropriate.

Toasts are a great way to celebrate the couple in this new phase of their life. Of course, for a reaffirmation ceremony or vow renewal, the toasts should reflect upon the couple’s continued love, not upon the couple finding each other (as it is for the wedding reception). Remember, there is no best man because you already have him.

Garter and Bouquet tosses began as a way to keep wedding guests from tearing the bride’s clothes! It was viewed as good luck to snatch a piece of her clothing. I don’t think snatching your clothes off would go over too well so how do an auction and the proceeds go to a local charity.

Enjoy yourself and each other and create an affair to remember.  The photo above is of Mr. & Mrs Lous Lane during their recent vow renewal ceremony.  Thanks Trina!!!

Happy Planning!


Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay

A Moms Nite Out in the South Suburbs...

You've gotten the babysitter, laid out school clothes, pre-cooked their favorite meal, ordered the fight and gathered all the cool kid videos ~ yes 30 days in advance!!! Your life, like that sentence, is one big run on BUT you found 5minutes to call your GIRLFRIENDS on three-way and finally ready for ChiTown Moms Nite Out! Thursday, May 6, 2010 should prove to be the first of many years to come for Chicago Moms to get together and celebrate this National Day of "Me Time".   

National Moms Nite Out is the first nationally organized celebration of motherhood intended to bring together today’s moms, physically and virtually.  Are you ready for some girl time?  More specifically, a little time with our Mom friends?  Maybe even meet a few new Mom friends? This year, ChiTown Moms Nite Out will take place at the Urban Room inside the University Golf Course in University Park, IL which is directly across from Governor's State University.  You may be wondering what in the world is out "there"?  I have many friends that take the serene drive from all areas North of this wonderful side of town.  Whether you're coming out I57, 294 or 394  you'll pass many beautifully wooded areas in route to this fabulous venue which is set on a lovely golf course.  If you're coming out early and wondering what to do, stop by Lincoln Mall and get your brows arched for $10 on the lower level not too far from Carson's or directly across from the Mall visit Star nail salon (next to Office Max) where you can get a pedicure for $28. Whatever you do - make it about you!!!

Now you have a general idea of where you're going; so get ready to kick up your feet and laugh like you haven't in years while we create more Mom Memories with friends old and new.

Up next?  More on the Urban Room located inside the University Golf Course!!!


Celebrating Moms - May 6, 2010 (6pm-10pm)
Even We Deserve Some "Me" Time



Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay

Wish Upon A Wedding... more

Whether you've been married one year, 10, 25 or 50 - I think if we're honest, we all love wedding season.  You can most often spot an engaged couple by the glow in their eyes or the hurried look that encompasses the bride OR the bubble over the grooms head that reads "just say yes dear"...

When I meet brides or even couples that want to renew their vows, it amazes me how dreamy their visions are.  Everyone wants "magic"... For each wedding or event  I take on, I like to include something the client isnt paying for.  That's my way of "paying it forward".  There is an organization called Wish Upon A Wedding that IMO is allowing event planning professionals the opportunity to practice the spirit of "paying it forward" in the ultimate way. 

Wish Upon A Wedding is granting wedding wishes for persons that are facing life-threatening medical conditions; celebrating the courage & spirit of these couples.  The Chicago Chapter recently had the their launch party and will grant their first wedding wish on April 18, 2010.  Read more HERE.



Wish Upon a Wedding Chicago Launch Party from I Do Films on Vimeo.
Wondering how you can help.....

Become a Wish Granter
We rely on the generosity of professionals from the Wedding and Hospitality industries to provide goods and services for our Wish Recipients. By calling on our database of regional Wish Granters, we are able to make wedding dreams come true. You can go here to sign up online Granter



Make a Contribution
Donations can be made as a simple personal donation, on behalf of your event guests in lieu of a traditional favor, or an alternative to traditional gifts. Feel free to discuss donation options with a Chicago Board of Directors member.


Adopt a Wedding
Make a donation to a particular wedding we are currently with to grant wishes.


Volunteer
Each Chapter needs several Committee Members to help with events, marketing and operations. Talk to a Chicago Board of Directors member to see where we need help.


Social Networking
Help get the word out about Wish Upon a Wedding by mentioning us on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr or any of the other social media outlets available online. Follow us on twitter at Wish Upon Wedding



Corporate Partnership
We are interested in forming alliances with entities that support our mission or have a mutual interest in reaching out to engaged couples.
 
 
Getting Married and need assistance?Email Me  for current specials
For All Your Event Planning Needs
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc.
Sharon Patrice, Owner
Simple Perfect Peace Events
Designs by Shay