WEDnesday Love: "Getting Trim for the Wedding"



Congratulations on your engagement and upcoming wedding!!! Now that you've shared the good news with your loved ones, it's time to get serious about trimming off those unwanted pounds. As is planning a wedding isn't enough, now you have to focus on your diet.  There is good news, with just a few simple adjustments you can be on your way to a slimmer, healthier bride!

 

Fad diets?! Forget about those ideas that make you drink nasty shakes and deprive you of your favorite foods.  A misconception is that you have to starve to lose when it's quite the contrary.  We must eat in order to lose weight. Our bodies need nutrients from food in order to burn the calories. If you deny your body that energy it slows down your metabolism causing a halt in weight lose. A healthy weight loss is 1-2 lbs. per week. Keep in mind that a pound of fat is equal to ~3500 calories. Therefore, by cutting 500 calories a day through meal and exercise modification, you will shed a pound a week. 

1. Don't put yourself in a calorie deficit! Talk about a bridzilla?! Maybe this is why brides are always crazy, because they are hungry! I know your first instinct when trying to lose weight is to cut, but try focusing on adding nutrient-rich foods. Many formulas exist to estimate calorie needs and some can get overwhelming. If you desire to lose weight remember, subtract 100-500 calories, depending on your goal.
2. Eat a protein rich breakfast! Consistent research has shown that people who eat breakfast tend to weigh less. Protein takes longer to digest in the body keeping you satisfied until your next meal.
3. Eat fresh produce and focus on fiber! Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are packed with fiber. The average American gets around 12 grams per day, while the current recommendations suggest we need 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day. Start reading the nutrition fact labels to make sure your cereals, breads and pastas contain greater then 5 grams of fiber per serving. Warning: if you do not have a diet rich in fiber you need to make sure you are consuming ample amounts of water. 
4. Limit dairy products to help reduce bloating. Certain individuals may experience sensitivity to dairy products because they cannot digest lactose or milk sugar.
5. Avoid excessive sodium (salt). Sodium holds on to fluid in the body increasing bloating and "water weight." Majority of the salt in out diet comes from processed foods the main one being breads.
   Main food items to limit:
1. Prepackaged meals (lean cuisine, smart ones, family dinners, etc.)
2. Deli meats.
3. Salty snacks.
4. Sodas. Even limit your diet sodas!
5. Breads. Do not completely cut out breads. You can get wonderful whole grains with breads, just limit the portion and buy reduced sodium.
6. Keep a food journal. Starting as soon as you begin planning. Write down what you eat, how much you eat, and how you feel both physically and mentally. You may be able to identify foods certain foods that cause gastrointestinal upset (bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea). 
7. Set small, achievable goals. See Motivation Monday for more detail on goals! 

Weeks leading up to your wedding make a conscious effort to carry around a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated and energized. I cannot stress enough the importance of hydration. Not only does it help reduce bloating and increase energy but it helps keep your skin glowing.

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

WEDnesday Love: "Event Planning Tips - Part IV"

Strategies, Goals, Budgets, W's, (who, when, where)  Invitations....and everything in between.  What is there left to do?

The Walk Through
Visit the venue the day(s) before your event. Envision a few things.

• How you want attendees to experience the event.
• Which of their senses will be heightened?  I prefer to focus on all of them!
• What signs need to be in place to avoid confusion?
• Where should you station staff?

Basically, you want to understand what your guests will see from the time they walk into the venue from the registration table to the actual event. Touch matters! Sight Matters, Taste Matters. Hearing Matters.  Smell Matters.

The only way to anticipate how your event will feel is to walk through and see and feel what they'll see and feel.

After all of the hard work - be sure to ENJOY!!!

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

WEDnesday Love: "Event Planning Tips - Part III"

By now you should be cooking with oil or working with a wonderful professional planner on knocking things off your checklist out!  We've determined how much we can spend AND figured out who is will be affected, now we'll get to the INVITATION!

How many times have you received an invitation months in advance and forgot?  Even worse, you received it a week before the event and your calendar is already filled.

The invitation to your event is one of the most important aspects of the entire planning process. You don’t want to send out the first invite too early or too late. Three weeks out is a good rule to live by. However, if you want to get on executives’ calendars, you might want to send it out even earlier.

For a more detailed, elaborate invitation for a dinner event is appropriate, but you may want to be more simple and straight to the point if you’re presenting a demo.  Be considerate and include directions that include access to public transportation. In other words, make it easy to be an attendee.

Remember to follow up (especially for business and social events).  Those who have RSVP’d should receive reminders that differ in timing and message than those who haven’t.  Taking a little extra time to do this will show that they are more than a number and you truly appreciate the time they taking from their schedule to attend your fabulous event.

Lastly, we're going to have a WALK THROUGH!!!

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

WEDnesday Love: "Event Planning Tips - Part II"

Now that you've shaken away some of the nerves associated with being responsible for the fun of hundreds of people let's move on.  In Part I you outlined your goals and have a strategy and also figured out your budget now it's time to discuss who, when, what and where! 

NOTE:  You'll find that although the budgets can be extremely different, planning a Corporate event isn't much different than a family dinner or cocktail reception.  The tips I am offering are very basic and can at least get you started.  At any place in the planning you find that you're still having a tough time, don't hesitate to hire a professional to assist you.


A Time and Place for Every Event

• Who are the stakeholders? You know, those that can affect or be affected by your actions. You would have probably already been introduced to them during the goal setting and strategy planning phase. 
• What's your target audience? Are you hosting executives or managers?
• Is it a presentation or a mixer?

The answer to these questions should determine when and where your event is held.

For instance, if you’re targeting busy executives, you may want to plan a fancy breakfast. A networking event is best served in the evening with cocktails.  A presentation is best held in a hotel or conference room because hosting it in a bar can feel forced.  Be mindful of how your surroundings influence attention spans and the type of message expected to hear.

Next up - One of the most important aspects of your event - INVITATIONS! 

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

WEDnesday Love: "Event Planning Tips - Part I"

Ok, event planning can be an overwhelming task so for the month of September we'll offer some tips to help you along the way. 

Here is the scenario:  You've been asked to plan an event but you have no clue as to where to start because you have no background in event management planning. Somehow due to your bubbly personality and attention to detail, this duty has been given to you.

Before you attempt to create some illness to avoid the task, relax.  I have some help for you.  If you're in Corporate America like I was for over 15 years, this will probably fall under "other duties as assigned" because many don't have a dedicated point-person for event marketing management. True enough, an event can make or break a campaign so here are some handy tips to help you from planning process through the big day.

Map It Out

• No matter the type of event you’re planning, you need to map out a strategy. What’s the goal of your event? Are you introducing a new product or service to customers? Running a demo for analysts or prospects?
• Whether your end goal is to get in front of key influencers or present before a group of executives, you’ll want to have a strategy.
• Look at your ideal audience, what message will resonate with them and how are you are going to measure results. Remember, you’ll have no clue whether your event was a failure or a success unless you have the right metrics.

Bring Up Budget

• Once you have your goals outlined, you need to consider how much it will cost to accomplish those goals. You've dreamed of what you want for sometime, now it's time to wake up and have realistic expectations. 
• Use a checklist and write down EVERY single cost item needed to make it happen. This can include signs, invitations, graphic treatments for the website, food, beverages, music, giveaways, etc. Think back to events you’ve attended and imagine all the little things that were involved. What do you absolutely need and what can you live without? Making up a checklist will help you to start developing an overall price tag.

Next time we'll discuss stakeholders, event type and style.  Who has a vested interest in your event? What's your target audience?

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

WEDnesday Love: WOW, Your Wedding Dress

You look at some brides and believe they just have "it". That something that makes them look effortlessly stylish, pulled together, and WOW! But if you think they were born with it, think again.  Choosing a wedding dress is one of the biggest personal things you'll do for your wedding.  Everybody has a different shape and style and thinking about how your gown will fit is just as important as the venue you choose.

If you're pear shaped, you may want to look for a skirt that gradually flares out in an A formation from the natural waist to the floor, highlighting the narrowness of the midsection and floating away from the hips and thighs. A spaghetti-strap bodice or a V neckline will also showcase a more slender upper body.  Keep in mind that a classic A-line silhouette lends itself to formal weddings, but it can also be dressed down when made from a more casual fabric.

If you're busty, consider a dress with a scooped neckline. It will open up your face without showing too much cleavage. If you love the look of strapless gowns, choose one that has a slight dip along the neckline, like a sweetheart, rather than a style that goes straight across (which will make your bust appear even larger and more shelf like). FYI: Ruched materials and fabric on the bodice that has a sheen to it (such as organza, satin, or silk) will add volume and call attention to your chest.

For my plus size ladies, an Empire dress with a skirt that begins just under the bust and flows into a gradual floor-length A-line is a good choice. Make sure the Empire seam does not start on the chest and that there is no pleating of the fabric, which is reminiscent of maternity wear. The dress should play up your shape; if it’s too loose, it will add pounds.

A dress that cinches in at the smallest point on the waistline, then flares out into a gradual A shape is great if you have an apple shape. Opt for a bodice with a lot of texture to it―think ruche or lace detailing―that will camouflage and fit snugly, creating a corsetlike effect. The most slenderizing neckline for you is one with a deep V, which will draw eyes toward the vertical, not the horizontal.  However, be careful to avoid trumpet dress styles, which emphasize the area where your body is widest and flare out at the legs and the knees, where you are most slender.

If you're a taller bride choose a simple silhouette. The strategy is to emphasize your natural shape, so every aspect of the dress―the lower waistline, a floor-sweeping hem.  Because of your height, you'll want to stay on the side of simplicity when it comes to embellishments. Too many bells and whistles, like ruffles and rosettes, can come off as cutesy, particularly on a tall person.

Last but certainly not least; if you're petite check out trumpet, sheath, and modified A-line gowns. Find a style with a waistline above your natural waist, to make the lower half of the dress appear longer.

Now that you've considered your shape - Did you think about how you will put it on? Have you considered who will be helping you with it? Be sure they know how to lace up the back of the dress and bustle you correctly.

Hope this is helpful when you're shopping for your wedding gown!

"Love & Laughter"

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

WEDnesday Love!! "The Ring"

Would you set a date without a ring?  Did you know that most engagements take place between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day?   With Valentine's Day being in two weeks, this post is dedicated to all of those that are considering popping the big question.  I hope the BLING below encourages you. 

www.michaelcfina.com

Hearts Of Fire by Michael C. Fina

Knox Jewelers

"Live Life With NO Regrets"
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Wedding Wednesday: Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and for some its a great season for a wedding.  While it may be a time for family to celebrate love; hosting a wedding over Thanksgiving has it's pros and cons.

http://siennawedding.blogspot.com

Although your family may already be traveling and have time off work after Thanksgiving and of course your theme is relatively simply; Thanksgiving is also one of the busiest times for travel and therefore flights may be a little more costly and venues difficult to book.  Unless you live in a warm climate, the weather during November is very unpredictable. 

blog.geoffwhite.com

Choose a color scheme with browns, oranges, yellows and even reds for that deep earthy touch.  If you haven't had enough traditional Thanksgiving food, incorporate some of them info your meal such as squash, mashed potatoes, turkey and pumpkin.  Being a fan of signature drinks, create a delicious drink using apple cider, cranberry, pear and berry cocktails.

Enjoy this season of Harvest!

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.

Wedding Wednesday: Not Your Ordinary Furniture

As you are planning your 2013/2014 wedding -  kick it up a notch on your special day by having a more lounge, night club-style atmosphere at your wedding!  By adding some cool lounge furniture to your reception you'll be able to use the area for both the cocktail hour and later in the evening for your guests to relax as they dance the night away.

Don't worry about digging through your aunts basement, rental companies provide some sleek pieces of furniture for weddings.

Photo Source:  Lounge Appeal

Photo Source:  Walters and Walters

Photo Source:  Wedding Style Magazine

 

Live It Up - It's YOUR 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.

Wedding Wednesday Cocktail: Twisted Sweet Tea!

Fall is certainly in the air but for those of us not willing to let go of summer, why not enjoy a summer treat with a twist? 

This PIN led me to Green Wedding Shoes Blog so figured I'd share it with you.

WHAT:
-Sweet Tea
-A Twist
-Ice

HOW:
Responsibly!!!

Be sure to stop by their blog to see more photo's of this fabulous New York Fall Wedding.

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.