Kwanzaa: Day Five

Habari Gani (what's the news for today?)  NIA (Purpose)

To commit ourselves to the glorious duty of restoring our families, our neighborhoods, and our people to their historical greatness.  This principle presses upon our family and community members a commitment to make our families and neighborhoods function in a manner that affords children and adults the maximum conditions for success.

Family becomes the starting point for restoring our people to their traditional greatness.  The context of family fits into that of the neighborhood, and the context of the neighborhood into the larger context society and culture. What am I saying? Greatness of the nation begins at HOME.

What is your true purpose? What are you doing while here? Are you a giver or a taker? Are you a benefit to your community?

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Kwanzaa: Day Four

Habari Gani (what's the news for today)?  UJAMAA (Cooperative Economics). 

On this day we build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together.


We know about small business Saturday but small business owners need more than one day to be successful.  If you are thinking about starting your own business, do so now.  Be knowledgeable about your craft and fair in your practices.  In addition, be sure to provide exceptional customer service.  If you are a consumer, know that a man is worthy of his hire.  Stop expecting something for nothing - this is how we will profit together!

What are you doing to practice this principle?

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Kwanzaa: Day Three

Habari Gani (What's the news for today)  Happy Ujima! Day Three of Kwanzaa focuses on collective work and responsibility. It involves taking a vested interest in the well-being of our families and communities - "I am my brother's keeper".  It is a requirement that we work together in ways that benefit everyone. With this concept, the problems of our brothers and sisters must be our own problems and we must solve them together.

How do I practice this principle?  My sister and I have a non for profit called DITO (daughters in the open) where the goal is to encourage women of all ages to walk through their door of opportunity.  We have "nieces" meetings where we mentor young ladies and they are able to share their concerns in a confidential and safe environment...
Another way I give back to my community is to share my experiences on college recruitment and help young men in any way possible see their potential of higher learning through athletics while expressing the importance of being a STUDENT and good citizen first.

I am really amazed how each of these concepts of Kwanzaa actually builds upon the founding principle of the first day: Unity. What are you doing to practice these principles?



Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Kwanzaa: Day Two

Self-Determination/Kujichagulia - Today we focus on ways to define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves.

When a person or group is self-determined that makes for a powerful force to be reckoned with. When we practice the principle of Kujichagulia other principles come into play. We accept responsibility for determining what happens in our community rather than waiting for someone to do it for us.

When we practice the principle of Kujichagulia we don't whine about our problems, we solve them! Kujichagulia allows people to experience a sense of freedom to make positive change as individuals and collectively.

I posted today on FB that if we allow foolishness and fuckery (a west indies term meaning nonsense) into our lives (and community) we should expect it. I'm sure we've all heard the statement "People only do what you allow"  Starting today, speak up and know who you are for your name is VICTORY!  Take responsbility for what enters your space and be determined to make a positive difference by creating and maintaining peace in your own lives and your community. "Simply Peace, 2012"
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Be determine to step out on faith and do something for yourself that you thought would be impossible. Live TODAY with no limits.  (Vennie Tolbert-Rodgers, Mother of twins and Owner of Se'Relasse DaySpa and Wellness Center)

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Kwanzaa: Day One

Unity/Umoja
To strive daily to engage in practices which build bonds of affection and attachment to our family members, our school teachers, and our neighbors.

Unity Day begins the Kwanzaa celebration. Each family/community celebrates Kwanzaa in a way that is most meaningful to them. Unity is the spiritual and social gravity which pulls the family together- husband and wife, parent and children, and family and neighbor. At its core, the principle unity is about attachment- attachment to each others and most importantly to the values which define us as family, as community and as a people. On Unity Day, the family celebrates its togetherness, the achievements of family members.

That being said:  What did you do to celebrate?  I had a good time with my family over the holiday.  Encouraged disconnections to be reconnected; took in my nephews basketball game with the family, fixed them brunch which led to a group nap and later enjoyed the McDipper (traditional holiday basketball tournament) with my sister.  For me celebrating my own family as well as the achievements of others is the true meaning of Unity.

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It is told that it take a village to raise a child. Let's take that same concept & apply it today.  Let's come together, lets be unified and become one. We need one another whether you realize it or not!!! (Vennie Tolbert-Rodgers, Mother of twins and Owner of Se'Relasse DaySpa and Wellness Center)






Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Twelfth Day of Christmas 2011

This is the day you have been anxiously anticipating and waiting for. Always remember PEACE has to first be created in order to be maintained.  Hopefully a great team has been put in place to ensure Simply Perfect Peace for your wedding.

On the twelfth day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me... "The Wedding Day of Your Dreams!"

 As you start your day, be sure to eat a light breakfast because the day is very long. You will also want to allow enough time to get ready (see our post yesterday on timelines). But most of all, relax and enjoy every moment!

~Peaceful Planning

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

Simply Perfect Peace Events and Designs by Shay

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Eleventh Day of Christmas 2011

As you draw closer to your day; you've pretty much gotten your vendors in place and written your vows now it's time to get some order!

On the Eleventh Day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me.... "A Timeline"

Wedding by Color

From the beginning of the planning process you've had monthly "to do" lists that keep you on track on certain tasks and deadlines. However, as you prepare for your big day, confirming your vendors and final details is vital to your wedding day running smoothly. In addition to these confirmations, you will also want to create a complete wedding day timeline.

A wedding day timeline (which your planner should provide) outlines in detail the events of your wedding day from beginning to end. Such as when you should wake up for breakfast, when you'll have your makeup done, when vendors will arrive and setup, when photos will be taken, when you will have your first dance, when toasts will happen, when you will cut your cake, etc....down to when you have your send off .

If you don't have a planner and unsure how to organize your timeline, contact us for a FREE consultation and/or assistance with your wedding day timeline by emailing shaysperfectpeace@gmail.com and enter MYTIMELINE as the subject or by calling 708.872.SHAY.

BONUS: The timeline will keep everyone involved in your wedding on track, it will help all of the moving parts stay organized and aware of the days' events. ...

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Tenth Day of Christmas 2011

So you've had some time to step away from planning to regain clarity now let's ease back into the planning of your wedding!

On The Tenth Day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me.... "Vows"

Simply Perfect Peace Events in Jamaica

If you're looking for creativity and to keep your wedding very personal; consider writing your own wedding vows.  If you decide to go this route, make sure you and your fiance are on the same page regarding saying your own vows. Taking inspiration from what inspires you, write them in advance and practice saying them out loud.  Your wedding day will be filled with a lot of nerves and you dont want to become tongue-tied when reciting your vows.

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Ninth Day of Christmas 2011

Throughout the wedding planning process you'll have plenty of good/fun times.  However, they'll also be some times when you're feeling really stressed.

On The Ninth Day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me..... "Rejuvenation and Clarity"

Stacy Furr, Owner/Operator
 Safe Haven Yoga & Wellness, LLC

It's ok to take a moment every so often and remember why you are doing all of this wedding planning in the first place...love.

Planning a wedding of any size can be stressful and there will be times when you and your soon to be husband won't see eye to eye over the not just big details, but small ones to. For that reason, it is important to take a step back from wedding planning to refocus your energy on yourselves and on your love for one another.

Make an appointment at your local spa, try zumba, take a yoga class, meet a friend for coffee, go check out a sporting event.  Anything that helps you relax!!  Take time away from planning your special day to rejuvenate your body and gain clarity. Doing these things will help you stay focused on your love and why you are getting married in the first place.

Although decision making and spending money can be stressful at times, if you stay aware of your actions and refocus when necessary, the planning process will continue to be enjoyable as well.

~Peaceful Planning

"You DO realize that you have the power to release anything that's weighing you down or stressing you out, right? We tend to hang on for longer than we should. Simply let go of anything that isn't serving you. It's that simple" (Stacy Furr - Yoga Instructor)

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Eighth Day of Christmas 2011

It's no secret you've been busy.... you have hired a planner, created a  budget and started a checklist, narrowed down your date and venue, selected a photographer to capture your moments, choosen your wedding party and began your registry.  You indeed have accomplished a lot but there is still plenty more to do.

On The Eighth Day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me.... "Ambiance"

Now it's time to choose flowers, linen, cake and music.  All of these vendors will help with the overall "feel" of your wedding.

• Formal or informal?
• Would you like your centerpieces to be large or small? Do you prefer candle light?
• What is your favorite color? What about your least favorite?
• How do you see yourself walking down the aisle; are you walking to the sounds of a string quartet, a piano or organ, a jazz combo, or songs you've given to a DJ?
• Do you like cake, cupcakes, or do you and your hubby-to-be have another favorite dessert you would rather serve?
• Does your venue provide chairs and linens? Do you like the ones they provide?

These are only a few questions that should ask yourself prior to hiring professionals to get the job done.  Your planner will be able to assist further in carrying out your vision.

How do you see your wedding plans coming together? If you're already married, were you able to visualize how you wanted things prior to that day?

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Seventh Day of Christmas 2011

The months leading up to your wedding you and your hubby to be will spend quite a bit of money getting things in order for your special day...therefore, let's have a little fun! 

On the seventh day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me..."A Wedding Registry"

This is that fun time when you can walk into your favorite stores and begin your wish list without worrying about your bank account.  More than china, flatware and glassware there are some non-traditional items you should consider.  For instance, some couples add luggage, furniture and event their honeymoon... it IS a wish list right? (ha)

A gift registry is a great guide for your guests, cuts down on receiving two irons and an ideal way to keep track of who gave what.  One rule of caution - do not overwhelm your guests by choosing a multitude of stores or a speciality shop that is only in your town. Stick to department or chain stores (from various price points) you love and leave it at that...

Lastly, If you’re really dont want gifts, you can always ask guests to make a charitable donation in your name to a favorite cause. Consider registering for gift certificates, or ask your parents and bridal party to spread the word that you’d prefer cash. it’s important to register for at least a few gifts so that guests who want to give a traditional present have the option.

NOTE:  proper etiquette dictates that you should never include registry information on your wedding invitation or in your invitation suite. Rely on family members and your bridal party to spread the word.  It is acceptable to put your registry information on your wedding website...  It’s also inappropriate to request monetary gifts on your invite....Fun times ahead!

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On the Sixth Day of Christmas 2011

The dress fits like a glove and you feel like you're well on your way to having the most perfect wedding ever.  Now you have a daunting task to deal with....

On the sixth day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me.. "The Bridal Party"

By now you've probably graduated from grammar school, high school and college.  You've been working a fabulous job and met some really nice ladies.  How do you decide your bridal party from the 100,000 people you've met in your lifetime?

"A friend should be one in whose understanding and virtue we can equally confide, and whose opinion we can value at once for its justness and its sincerity."


This a time of celebration so think of your closest friends and family that will not only celebrate the union but respect it as well. The size of your wedding should also be a consideration; if you're having 100 guests than 4 attendants is ideal.  For those of you having 300-400 guests, have at it and choose 8-12 on each side... my motto? Your wedding, your choice!

Be sure each attendant understands what you would like them to do and make certain they can follow through!   Guys are typically pretty easy so here is a brief overview for the ladies you are considering.

Your Maid of Honor will handle your bridal shower and also sign the marriage license as a witness.  Her duties are extensive on the day of the wedding so make sure she's ok with a lot of bending and moving about.  Every girl has a few trustworthy friends they ofen consider sisters.  Bridesmaids are your support system and team for your maid of honor.  The princess of this select group is your Flower Girl.  Typically between 2-8 years old, she walks down the aisle right before your grand entrance.

Have fun BUT remember the very single college friend that thinks you can still "get it in" probably isn't a wise selection for THIS role but she'll probably help your M.O.H plan a memorable bachorlette party.

Ha - have fun!!

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Fifth Day of Christmas 2011

Keeping it moving....

On the fifth day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me....

A Photographer to capture the moment!

You've spent a lot of time and money on planning your special day, you'll want someone to photograph every moment.  Professional photographs will allow you to look back and reminisce on all the love and the hours of fun from that day...

• Please hire a PROFESSIONAL!  Yes, your uncle takes great pictures at the picnic but on this day you want quality images that you'll be proud to show off.  Your wedding planner or a close friend can recommmend someone with a reputation in the wedding business.
• Make sure the photographer you choose has a style that matches the look and feel you want.  Review their portfolio and ask to see an album from a wedding they've done before.
• Be specific and detailed about the photos you want.  Formal poses, candids, or a combination - this information needs to be relayed to the photographer. 
• Schedule your engagement session - ask if it's included.
• Consider a first look!  A beautiful moment where your hubby to be sees you for the first time piror to walking down the aisle.  Not only does this give your photographer more one on one time with you and the groom, it cuts down on the post ceremony photos.  If you're more traditional, have pre photo's taken with the bridal party to eliminate excessive post photos.

carascophoto.com

voe photography

voe photography

maricel cruz photography

j. shepp photography

Whatever your style there is a photographer out there for you... ask me about our R.E.D services which includes a great photographer at a wonderful price..

"Say Cheese"
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Fourth Day of Christmas 2011

Venue? (check) Date? (check) Planner? (check) The Man of your dreams? (super check) Now ....

on this fourth day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me..."A Wedding Dress"



VOE Photography

 You know your style but go in with an open mind; try on several styles and looks.  Take one of two close friends and/or your mom when you decide to go shopping.  Last person you need with you is a "fun sucker" with an aray of opinions.  Let the "B" word (budget) be your guide!  If you only have up to $2,500 to spend, don't look at a dress that cost $5,000 - it'll upset the experience.

Atha Sharod Bridals

Begin thinking about the style, look and feel you want on your wedding day.  Your day, your style - embrace it and have fun.

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Third Day of Christmas 2011

You have a planner, you have a shortlist of potential wedding dates, budget and a task list.. Now you're on to the next one!

... on this third day of Christmas my planner gave to me...  "A Venue"

Rialto Theatre -Joliet

This is one of those items where budget and personality come together.  As exciting as this step is in the process it one of the most exhausting.  There are thousands of venue's to choose from but which one is right for you and your guests?  What are your likes and dislikes?  There are many things to considering when choosing a venue but here are just a few:

• Don't let time slip away.  You know you want your local country club or art museum.  These hot spots tend to go fast and you need time to visit and assess properly.
• Nothing worse than inviting 100 guests and your room comfortably fits 75. An empty room looks a lot different when it is filled with tables, chairs, DJ equipment, dance floor and/or a photo booth.  To ensure you have enough space for your wedding, ask to see it when it's set up for another event.
• Location, location, location! If possible, don't have your guests all over the place..
•  Often overlooked, ask to see the menu and range of dishes offered.  Be sure to check on accommodating dietary requirements.
• TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS!

Don't take this step lightly and think carefully before reaching a final conclusion.  Enjoy the process!

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want

coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

On The Second Day of Christmas 2011

On the 2nd Day of Christmas my planner gave to me.. (drum roll)

A BUDGET AND A CHECKLIST!  Aren't you glad that on day one you received PEACE?  These two items almost always make the bride and the groom cringe.  I can't count how many times I've asked "what is your budget" and got either a blank stare ofr "we haven't discussed it yet".  Your wedding (or any event) can't operate without a budget.  While your wedding should be everything you've dreamed of, it should not leave you bankrupt.  It is my suggestion that every couple sets priorities and sets a budget early in the planning processess.  Trust me, the cost of a wedding can add up quickly!

Once you've set your budget, move on to tackling some wedding tasks.  Being organized will save you a lot of frustration.  To help ease your frustration - have a cupcake (random thought)

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Simply Shay: 12 Days of Christmas

Designs By Shay

Everyone has their version of this holiday classic so I thought why not join in on the fun.  With engagement season here, we want to assist you in getting started on your wedding planning by sharing some tips... So, here we go!!

On the first day of Christmas my wedding planner gave to me...."PEACE of Mind"


What a better way to start off your planning then with the peace of knowing someone outside of your immediate family has your back!  Before we suggest any other vendor, we think a planner is as essential as your dress.  A wedding planner isn't a luxury but a necessity and will help you every step of the way in planning a wedding. 

Why do you need a planner? For their knowledge of course!  Get the most out of your wedding planners' wealth of knowledge by hiring him/her early on in the planning process. He/she will ease the stress that comes along with planning a wedding...yes there are stressful moments, which we will touch on later...

So as you begin the process, give yourself the best wedding (and Christmas) gift you can...a wedding planner! 


Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Holiday Party Tips with SISTER SAVE A LOT!

Holiday parties are fun, but we all know they also can be expensive to host. This year, with the assistance of my friend Sister Save A Lot, here are a few tips on throwing a memorable bash without going broke in the process.

• Create invitations that convey the theme of your party -- and that it's going to be really fun, a must-attend. Be sure to include a start and end time along with the style of party so people are appropriately dressed.

Sister Save a Lot Suggests: EVITES because they are FREE!! This is an informal event and no need to spend the extra money on formal invitations.

• You must have fabulous decorations! To keep cost down make use of those Christmas decorations: String white lights around the front doorway, windows or the buffet table; stack same-color holiday ornaments in large glass bowls or vases; and hang colored globe ornaments from the ceiling with pins and fishing wire. Chargers are inexpensive and look magnificent on the table or even mantel.

Sister Save A Lot found a great find at Dollar Tree - don't sleep on the dollar store finds. You can have a fabulously decorated event and no one will ever know you spent under $10 

• Munch and mingle is the name of this game! Design a self-serve buffet full of finger foods. Then use vibrant, shiny, thick wrapping paper to line each serving tray or plate. Suddenly, all your platters and plates will match the mood. Salads go a long way- shrimp wrapped in bacon and pepper jack cheese is one of my favorites along with a crab and cheese mixture I do placed on english muffins. For that touch of sweet and salty I like pretzels with melted rollo's and M&M's. These are snacks that are easy to make and wont kill your budget. You may even have some of these left from the huge candy holiday back in October. :)

 Sister Save A Lot Suggests: USE THOSE STORE COUPONS! Go to Sister Save A Lot's blog page and type in Jewel and you can get more info...

• Speciality Cocktails will help you save big bucks and make a party memorable. I'm a martini girl and off the wall bartender so I love creating exciting drinks (non alcoholic too). However, I didn't create this one :) Start with 1 peppermint stick, crushed, 1 1/2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce peppermint schnapps, 1 ounce Triple Sec, Ice and 1 small candy cane... DELISH! If you have children there or non drinkers.. leave out the vodka - they'll be ok too.

Sister Save A Lot Suggests: Check your local store wine department for "wine tags". Several wine bottles and other items will have in-store coupons on them. Also, consider buying in bulk - you have easily save 10% buying 6 or more bottles of wine instead of one at a time.

To complete your holiday bash, be sure to have some music and even do a little singing. At the end of the night let your guests leave with a batch of cookies or a nice inexpensive novelty gift. Sister Save A Lot likes the idea of a picture frame. This way after you take your group photo you'll have something to put in in.

Have a tip you'd like to share? We'd love to hear it!
~ Peaceful Planning

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Let It Snow - Holiday Cards by ME

Designs By Shay

I generally like the snow but I'm not a fan of the cold.  Here in Chicago, we get both. As you prepare for this season, dont forget to order customized holiday cards for your friends and loved ones.  Starting at $2.25, custom handmade cards are a wonderful way to add your uniqueness to each card you send. 

Most of your connections and clients online? Well, Ecards are a great way to show love across the internet. At $25 you can't beat a custom design and no stamps needed!

Happy Holidays from us to you~

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.