Sparkling Affairs by Monique

Greenville Wedding Venues

2011-12-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

"Sparkle Picks"Top Wedding Venues in
Greenville NC.

If you are looking for a wedding spot in Greenville, NC? I have researched the best venues
that are able to accommondate all your wedding venue needs and I wanted to share
my top 3 "Sparkle Picks with you. Although, I was born and raised on Greenville,
NC. I have only planned a few weddings in that area. The majority of my clents
have been from the Triangle to the Triad. But in 2012 we are already booked for
2 weddings in the Greeeville, NC(eastern nc)area. To say the least we are very
excited to back on HOME turf!!

Ironwood
Golf & Residence
#1 Ironwood Golf & Residence
This venue is
beautiful from the inside out. The landscaping is gorgeous as well as the inside
decor. The property is built on a great big mass of beautiful green land You
will be able to have a beautiful wedding outside while only being a walk away
from your inside reception, or vice-versa.

#2 Michels Center
This
venue is known for their weddings and events. The space is not as big but if you
are having a wedding of less than 75-100 people then this will be a Great
location. You will have access to the inside and the outside. If you are the
bride looking for a ONE stop SPOT, this is it! Ceremony and Reception all in one
location.

#3 Rock Springs
Great venue with plenty of space have a
wedding up to 800 people. They are known for their weddings and black tie
events. They have onsite catering which is an advantage for some. This is a WELL
known venue for many events, that's why it is our 3rd pick. We like to mix it up
and do things a little different!!

These are our "Sparkle Picks"!!!
Do you have any favs that you would like to share?? We would love to hear about
them!! So feel free to post your "PICKS

Seasonal Wedding Flowers

2011-12-05T15:27:00.001-08:00

Getting married in the Winter and you are unsure of what flowers will best fit your
perfect scenery? I have found some great options for you.

For the Winter how
about trying amaryllis which make a striking table centrepiece and holly which
can be incorporated into a Christmas wedding flower decorations.
Although
cymbidium orchids are available year round, we tend to find that the best choice
and prices are to be had now.
Other tropical flowers are also available now.
You can see in the photo that I have used red tropical anthuriums together with
branches of ilex berries (holly).
The vibrant colors of these have been
offset with green Molucella (commonly called 'Bells of Ireland').
Another
idea for winter weddings is to make a spectacular background to your flowers by
using vibrant red dogwood stems and tactile pussywillow stems that are available
now.
The following are flowers that should be available all
year:
•Roses
•Anthuriums
•Orchids
•Tropical
flowers
•Lilies
•Gerberas (gerber daisies)

I was Inspired!!!!

2011-09-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

After meeting with a couple yesterday...I was truly Inspired by the sign of relief that the bride to be let out after signing our agreement and giving me a check to book my services for her 2012 wedding. I was inspired to keep doing what I do....to keep on the grind and to stay the course. It has always been my desire to not just have a career or to do a job, but to make a difference, to have impact, and to truly be of service. Her actions as well as her words" I feel so much better now" confirmed for me that I am making a difference and that this is truly my calling.

As I reflect, when I work with couples I act as a sounding board, mediator, problem solver and sometimes miracle worker, and along the way I develop a bond with them(especially the bride). At the end the journey(the wedding day) I am usually sad and yes I cry at every one of those weddings. Sad that I won't be talking to her every other day, getting text messages and e-mail from her and at the same time I am happy and thrilled that I had the honor of being a part of one of the most important time in their lives. This too inspires me!! Thank you Jennifer for inspiring me, to keep doing what I'm doing and stay on the grind!!!

What inspires you??? I would love to hear about what inspires you to keep doing what you do???

Drink ideas

2011-08-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

Keep your wedding guest cool this summer with these unique drink ideas!

This is a great idea for serving lemonade or limeade on a hot afternoon!

Adding an umbrella makes simple drinks fancy and summery! Try color coordinating your drink to your umbrella's for themed weddings.

Sangria is simple and a drink that everyone loves! You can make it as fancy as you like or as simple, perfect for an outside reception! Recipe below.

2 bottles - cheap (but not gross) dry red wine

1.5 ounces of Brandy

1 can of 7 Up or Sprite

1 ounce of orange juice

2 apples cut up small

2 oranges cut up small

1 lemon sliced

1 lime sliced

Note: the longer you let it sit, the better it gets.

Adding ice with fruit in it is a perfect way to spice up your drinks and add a little flavor. Try putting your favorite fruit in ice trays, or cupcake trays (as shown above), add water and freeze! Simple and stylish!

Pouring champange over popsicles adds flavor and is a nice decoration that can be used to cool down! See the link below for great popsicle recipe ideas!

Summer Popsicle Ideas

Strawberry mojitos are the perfect summer cocktail for any summer wedding. Follow the recipe below to Wow your guests!

For each mojito, you will need:
4-5 fresh strawberries, depending on size
Small handful of fresh mint leaves
3 oz simple syrup (even amounts of sugar and water, heated until the sugar melts, and cooled to room temperature)
2 oz rum
1 1/2 tsp fresh lime juice
Club soda
Lime slices

Flower fun

2011-07-18T14:34:00.001-07:00

Flower fun, a photo by doug88888 on Flickr.

10 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Planner

2011-07-18T10:47:00.000-07:00

This is an article from TLC.com. It is the 10 most important questions to make sure you ask your wedding planner. These questions will help you find your perfect wedding planner and help you to be stress free! 10 Questions To Ask Your Wedding Planner

5 Unique Wedding Venue Ideas

2011-06-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

If you're trying to be adventurous and standout from traditional wedding venues, take a look at these great ideas for a wedding venue!

1. On the Water

Having a wedding on a lake, beach, river bank, dockside restaurant, even on a ferry boat, is a great way to create a splash among your guest. Having a wedding on the water makes for a great dramatic back drop and one you will never forget. Keep weddings on water simple, make an arch out of wood and branches found locally, use nature to create decorations such as flowers and small shrubs to make topiaries. String lights to give it some flare.

2. City Hall

Taking a trip to city hall doesn't mean your wedding has to be all business anymore. Having a wedding at city hall can be intimate and low key. This is a low stress option that doesn't require a lot of planning, or a big budget. Take your budget and use it to plan a party afterwards such as a dinner, or rent a venue to have a big celebration with your family and friends.

3. Unique Building

Try having your wedding in a special building that means something to you and your significant other. Having your special day in a building that has a lot of history is a great way to make history of your own. Some good venue ideas might be a museum, barn, historical house, government building. A lot of places may surprise you when it comes to budget, since they may be able to supply you with rental discounts and some may even supply seating and other supplies. Having your wedding in a place like this adds character, especially when the venue you pick might have nice marble floors or old stained glass windows.

4. In A Park Or Garden

Having your wedding in a garden or park is a great venue to add some whimsical flare to your wedding day. A lot of gardens and parks have covered space for weather. Gardens and parks can be budget friendly. Try decorating with simple things such as linen table cloths, mason jars with candles on tables and lining walk ways, putting lanterns in trees and adding flowers, found locally can give your wedding a romantic feeling. Use shades of white with accents for a nice simple, vintage feel. If your budget allows, hire a band for an even bigger bang.

5. At A Winery

If you're looking for an out of the ordinary destination wedding, having your wedding at a vineyard may be the place for you! Vineyard weddings are becoming very popular for couple who want an outdoor wedding. Vineyards often have spectacular views which are nice for setting up a reception, saying your vows, and picture opportunities. The day before your wedding you can hold a wine tasting for guest. Supplies such as linens, table ware, tables, chairs are usually provided. The vineyard will also plan wine pairings with your meal the night of your wedding, make sure to provided transportation for your guest afterwards though!

Mixing it Up!

2011-06-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

Mixing and matching your bridesmaid dresses is a great way to add some spice to your wedding! No one likes to have a bunch of bridesmaids dresses hanging in their closet they will never wear again, so let the bridal party pick their own dress that they know they will like, look good, and wear again. Allowing your wedding party to pick their own dresses allows for added variety and fun, plus keeps everyone happy! The easiest way to do a mix and matched bridal party, is to pick a color scheme for everyone to go off of, tell them what lengths and styles you like best, then have them buy the dress and get it approved by the bride!

Rules are Meant to be Broken

2011-06-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

This is an article found in Woman's Day from this past spring. Its very interesting and talks about the 8 traditional wedding rules that are now meant to be broken. It touches on topics such as bridesmaids saying no and even says its okay to see the bride in white BEFORE the wedding! A very modern outlook on the many traditions that have been around for hundreds of years! It definitely makes you think!

8 Wedding Rules That Can Be Broken

Wishing Tree

2011-06-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

This is a really cute idea for a Wedding Wishing Tree! Love the white flowers on the tree, it goes great with the pink paper and the brown branches! Write whatever you want on cards and hang them with a wish for the happy couple!

Purple bridesmaids bouquets

2011-06-17T10:05:00.001-07:00

Purple bridesmaids bouquets, a photo by Dream Designs Florist on Flickr.

Purple in all shades is hot hot hot right now! Love the dresses and how they matched different shades of purple flowers with them!

You can make purple be simple or elegant by mixing all shades of purple with different colors such as silver or even white!

Purple wedding cupcakes

2011-06-17T10:01:00.001-07:00

Purple wedding cupcakes, a photo by Cupcake Passion (Kate Jewell) on Flickr.

This year PURPLE is a huge color scheme for weddings! Here is some cute cupcakes and cake ideas for a perfect purple dessert!

Tarheel Weddings and Events Bridal Showcase!!!!

2011-03-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

info@tarheelweddingsandevents

Work at your BIZ as hard as you work in IT!!!!

2011-03-29T18:29:00.000-07:00

Chris Evans Bridal Business Boot Camp!!http://www.evanssalessolutions.com/

Flower POWER!!!

2010-11-15T18:30:00.000-08:00

Flowers create a visual emotional impact at your wedding celebration. There are several ways to stretch your floral budget while creating a uniquely striking look.

Stay with seasonal and local flowers. These blooms are readily available, come in many colors, and will be less expensive for each bloom.
Use fewer flowers by taking advantage of the fullness of greenery and fluffy blooms.
Avoid marrying during Holidays such as valentines day or mothers day when flowers are in demand and the cost will be at its highest.
Cluster masses of the same color blooms to convey impact without a high price tag.
Take advantage of the natural beauty of a garden for a beautifully free display of flowers.
Think simplicity and elegance. A single bloom for the bride and attendants can be stunning while stretching your budget.
YES...it is perfectly fine to use SILK flora's...however...make sure they are the BEST your money can buy!! and that your designer know what they are doing!! Need some help??? Contact me, I work with some AWESOME designers!!!

Flowers will make a statement about your style as a couple~use these suggestions to get the impact while making the best use of your budget. ~Monique~

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX!!!

2010-10-04T18:27:00.000-07:00

In these tough economic times wedding planners and brides a like are faced with the task of finding ways to make the most of the allotted budget by THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX!!!

Planning a wedding for a week day in lieu of a traditional Saturday is an excellent way to
S-T-R-E-T-C-H those funds!!!

Recently, I coordinated a Friday evening wedding, the chapel www.whitedovechapel.com. White Dove Wedding Chapel was just as lovely on that Friday evening as it would have been on any given Saturday aftenoon. The recption venue was just as beautful, the food was just as tasty and the photographers photos were just as awesome......all a fraction of the cost. WHAT A WAY TO MAXIMIZE A BUDGET!!!

Sparkling Affairs by Monique-2010 Event Schedule

2009-12-17T07:32:00.000-08:00

2010 Events

PGA Golf Getaway

Febuary 24-27, 2010

Palm Beach Gardens,FL

*2010 Power Networking Expo

*Ladies only Pamper Me Spectacular

More events to come, please check back often.
*(date and venue to be determined)

Simply Chic!!!!

2009-11-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

Keep it Simple!!!

Because of the economy, brides as well as others aspiring to plan the special event of their dreams are actively looking for ways to save MORE on their wedding or special event!!
To capture the spirit of resourcefulness,look to make your event SIMPLY CHIC!!

Choose timeless pieces that can easily be used after the occasion is over
Look to barter and negotiate with vendors
Choose destinations and themes that are easy for both you and your guests

Remember- Keep it Simple!!!

I hope that these simple tips have provided inspiration for planning your wedding or special event. I would love to assist you in planning your CHIC event. Call today to schedule your Free and always Friendly consultation.

Happy Planning!!!

The next "Sweet" Trend!!!

2009-09-23T07:59:00.000-07:00

A Candy Buffet is a great way to bring a smile to the faces of guests attending your next special event!

Imagine, a table loaded with large amounts of assorted candies. What an added appeal to any event, and it's a great way to get your guest to mix and mingle!!!

Let me help make your next event a "Sweet" Affair!! http://eventplanningbymonique.com

Wedding Planning Tips and Etiquette for the Bride-to-Be

2009-08-31T15:51:00.000-07:00

Wedding Etiquette for Second-Time Brides

Tell me about your upcoming wedding!Many couples thinking of marriage may have previously taken a trip down the aisle. Second and third weddings are more common these days than ever before. According to gettingremarried.com, nearly 50 percent of all marriages in 2003 were second weddings for at least one partner - if not both. Therefore, many wonder what is proper wedding etiquette for an encore marriage.

Actually, no rules are set in stone. It is up to the couple to plan a ceremony and reception that fits their needs and comfort levels. While some couples choose to elope or have a very intimate affair, others treat themselves to an elaborate affair, even inviting their children to participate in the ceremony.Here are some tips to guide you if you are having difficulty deciding on the wedding that is right for you:

When it comes to the ceremony, the choice is yours. Consider your religious affiliations, personalities, finances and family customs, and plan accordingly. Whether you choose a small service or a lavish affair, all is acceptable.
Wardrobes can be as varied as the ceremony and party. In the past, white gowns signified purity and virginity - not anymore. If you want to wear white, go for it. However, many encore brides choose to wear colored gowns or even a pantsuit in lieu of a gown. Guys can be formal in a tuxedo or casual in a dinner jacket and slacks.
A second-time bride may choose to be "given away" by a father, brother or friend. It is perfectly acceptable for her to walk down the aisle solo.
The bride and groom can host their own affair, but parents on either side may choose to financially contribute.

It is my sincere hope that the above Wedding Tips and Etiquette are Helpful!! Please feel free to post your comment s and questions!!! I am always happy to assist!

Have a Sparkling Day!!!
Monique
Source: Metro Creative

You Could Be a WINNER!!!!-Contest results!!!

2009-08-25T17:19:00.000-07:00

The winner of the $25.00 restaurant gift card contest is Dondra Perkins,

Congratulations Dondra!!!

Special thanks to everyone that entered the contest and for visiting and joining ShopYTB. It is my sincere hope that your visit was enjoyable!!! Don't forget to visit the site the next time you are shopping on line.

Thanks again!!!
Monique

You Could Be a WINNER!!!!

2009-08-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to tell you about a contest brought to you by Morah Travel. This offer is being made available to potential clients as well as valued friends and family. Introducing ShopYTB where you can get $CASH BACK$(YES CASH BACK!!!!) for shopping online at your favorite stores(Walmart, Footlocker, Macy’s, Champs and many many more) that you’re already shopping at anyway! There’s also many stores with wedding and event planning supplies & favors too. It’s a real WIN-WIN.

The first 50 people to sign up for ShopYTB.com will be entered into a drawing for a FREE $25 restaurant gift certificate.

Here’s how to enter:

1) Go to Morah Travel and click on the ShopYTB blue box (located on the right side of the page). Click here at http://morahtravel.net/

2) Sign up for ShopYTB (if you would like, there’s a popup video that comes up that you can watch to get more information )

3) Sign in with your new login and check out some of the over 600 stores! Click on at least one “Shop Now” button. You don’t have to buy anything at all if you don’t want to. I’d like you to see how it takes you to that store’s page!

4) Send an email to sa@eventplanningbymonique.com with one of your favorite stores that you visited. And that’s it! You’ll be entered in the contest.

This should take you less than 5 minutes to complete! Please pass this on to your friends and family as well, it’s open to everyone!This contest ends August 24, 2009 and the winner will be announced on my BLOG August 25th, 2009. Make sure to check the BLOG and don’t forget to post your comments!!

Have fun shopping and Have a Sparkling Day!!!

Monique

First Tip and Trend

2009-08-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

Stay tuned for the first in a series of tips and trends that you will not want to miss!!