Upcoming Event in Seattle: Book Release Party at Chateau Ste. Michelle
JOHN SARICH
Book Release Party
April 22, 2010
5:30-7:30 pm
TICKET PRICE with book - $40 (plus tax)
Price without book - $35 (plus tax)
Join Chateau Ste. Michelle as they celebrate the release of their Culinary Director John Sarich's new travel cookbook "Chef in the Vineyard." Enjoy appetizers from the book paired with Chateau Ste. Michelle spring release wines. John will be on hand to sign books and share his discoveries of favorite wine estates from Washington, Oregon and California. Visit their website for more information.
With spring just around the corner, it's the perfect time to start planning your next great team-building event. There is something about spring that always rejuvenates the spirit which is why a team building event is the perfect way to say goodbye to winter and welcome the newness of spring.
Why use games and team building at an event? Games and team building opportunities unify attendees and allow them to enjoy themselves and get to know their fellow visitors. Corporate team building for employees can serve as a morale booster to build strength within the company. There are many companies that provide services to encourage and entertain attendees, employees, and visitors. At your function, hiring a company to provide games and team building provides the attendees with a memorable experience that they will take away from your event.
When are games and team building appropriate? Anytime you have an event. When done properly, themes can be used to enhance a business meeting, client appreciation, awards event, and even reunions.
How is a theme chosen? Define the goals of your event first, what you want to accomplish with the event, who is attending, and what you want them to take away with them. Then you can decide what theme options may work. Brainstorming with a committee or colleague can be a big help.
Are theme events expensive? They don't have to be. It depends on your budget. Some of your theme ideas can be accomplished with a small budget if you and your committee are willing to spend the time. However, a much better use of your time and money may be to use a meeting planner, prop, or entertainment company.
Decorating tips for theme events: Consider three to four main areas of the facility for theme props. Main focus areas can include the entryway to the event, state, guest tables, beverage and food stations, to name a few.
If you are one of the millions planning on watching the Superbowl this weekend and are planning on having some guests over for the kickoff, you will certainly want to be prepared with top-notch recipes and snacks to wow the crowd. If you haven't done so already, be sure to check out The Pioneer Woman for high quality and ultra tasty recipes that will have your football loving friends licking their lips and singing your praises.
Here is a taste of some of our favorite recipes from The Pioneer Woman:
Ahhh, Valentine's Day. For some, this can be a very stressful day, especially when it comes to planning the perfect date. But remember, even if you don't have a significant other in your life at the moment, there is no reason you can't grab someone you love like a best friend or family member and hit the town running.
If you are in the Seattle area, check out these special events happening at local restaurants.
Acalia (Feb 13) Special: Join us on this Beautiful Evening and Enjoy a Unique Menu Artistically Paired with Magnificent Wines!
BluWater Bistro (Feb 11-Feb 14) Special: Offering a 6 oz Lobster Tail and 6 oz Filet Mignon for $26.99.
Palace Ballroom (Feb 13) Special: Speak the language of amore while enjoying a sumptuous Italian dinner with your valentine. This sultry event will take place at the Palace Ballroom. 7pm cocktail hour; 8pm seated dinner service begins. This event is 21 and over. Tickets are $110 per person
Ponti Seafood Grill Special: Featuring a special Valentine's Day Menu with 3-courses served.
Six Seven Restaurant & Lounge (All weekend) Special: Take your lover to The Edge this Valentine’s Day, for our three course gourmet lover’s dinner for two on Friday and Saturday night for $90.00 per couple, or Valentine’s Day dinner on Sunday 2/14 offering six delectable courses at $75.00 per person. In addition, Sunday’s “Sweet Heart” Brunch will focus on an extravagant dessert display and will be offered at $35.00 per person.
Free Webinar Announcement: Planning in a Tough Economy
Webinar Annoucement! Date: January 27, 10 a.m. Pacific Speaker: Joan Eisenstodt Topic: Event Planning in a Tough Economy With companies cutting budgets and association attendance down, meeting planners must be more creative—with less—in these cash-strapped times. See how you can keep your head above water. Cost: It's Free, Register Here
What You'll Learn:
In today’s economy you need to plan like your job depends on it, because more than ever, it does! Learn ways to trim your budget without dampening the attendee experience, and how to show the savings you gained to the organization you plan for. Just by employing a few simple cost-cutting strategies from this webinar, you can provide a quality meeting without breaking the bank.
Some of the key points covered in this webinar will include the following :
How far out to plan--advantages and disadvantages
How CVBs can create efficiencies, supply free services and help you negotiate
How to staff your meeting to create maximum cost-effectiveness
Package Details: We'll pamper you and that special someone. Accommodations for two. Champagne and Truffles. Etherea Spa.Salon Gift Box. Enjoy complimentary Full American breakfast served in the comfort of your room.
The Edgewater Hotel Seattle: Snuggle & Smooch - Seattle Romance Package Package Details: For Valentine's Day (and all of February 2010) come to The Edgewater for a steamy, sultry one-night escape with our newly redesigned romance package – Snuggle & Smooch. Start your overnight love-fest with chocolate dipped strawberries delivered to your room and hand made by our in-house pastry chef. With an exclusive Romance Box made especially for The Edgewater by Bumble B Design your romantic getaway is just a click away! Get down and chocolatey with chocolate body frosting, or indulge with ylang ylang and ginger lotion – perfect for a sensuous massage! To keep things easy, your overnight parking is also included!
Package Details: The ultimate in "do not disturb" getaways...There's just something about a luxurious hotel room that makes whispered sweet nothings sound even sweeter. Add a touch of elegance, a hint of indulgence, and you've got the makings for our Romance Package.
Package Details: Let the romance begin! Indulge yourself with our Homewood Suites Romance Package. Check-in to one of our spacious suites and relax in a comfortable bath robe - yours to keep - while enjoying a luscious box of assorted fine chocolates. There's no need to rush. Plan to sleep in late and feast on our delicious complimentary Suite Start® hot breakfast. And to top it all off, we'll arrange for a late check-out at 1:00pm.
Package Details: Accommodations for two at our hotel in downtown Seattle. $50 dining credit in Sazerac restaurant, offering serious food and damn good fun. Complimentary valet parking.
Package Details: Available February 1st through February 28, 2010. Deluxe or Suite Accommodations. Bottle of Sparkling Wine or Cider and chocolates upon check-in. Full American Breakfast for Two. Valet Parking.
W Hotel Seattle: WHO PUTS YOU IN THE MOOD THIS VALENTINES DAY?
Package Details: Get away with your special someone for a provocative escape at W Seattle this Valentine's Day Weekend. Your racy rendezvous will include:
Tickle Me Intimacy Lovekit by Booty Parlor
Exclusive Jimmyjane SPIN ME game, Feather Tickler and Seduction Sash
Dazzle your guests with more Love, Chaos & Dinner!
Find out why The New York Times called Teatro ZinZanni "this city's hottest ticket." Teatro can take care of all your event planning! They provide the entertainment, a full five-course feast, a full bar and guaranteed smiles for up to 300 of your guests! Save up to 20% with group rates as low as $84.00 per person.
We constantly hear people talking about going to Teatro Zinzanni and now is the best of all times to book the event. This is something special, so be sure and book ahead.
Call or contact their group sales for your group of 15 or more. They can accommodate up to 300 guests and if desired, make it an exclusive affair for an exceptional evening!
Group sales: 206-802-0013 or email them at: dreams-info@onereel.org
Hold off on the red stuff and bring on the orange - as the second most celebrated of holidays for Americans arrives at the end of this month, before the red holiday season begins after Thanksgiving. Halloween has a very old origin which is not necessarily why it is so popular today. October 31st is the last day of the Celtic calendar. It was originally a pagan holiday, honoring the dead. Halloween was referred to as All Hallows Eve and dates back to over 2000 years ago. Have fun and be safe! Need a screensaver? Found a couple for you Apple-Orange.jpg Halloween_Ring_Screensaver.jpg Happy-halloween.jpg
It's right around the corner, and there is a good chance very few of us have had the realistic option of actually going to the Olympic Games. Well times they are a changing because we are in an exceptional situation via our location to go to the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, B.C. The Olymic Games start on Friday, February 12th - opening ceremonies at 6:00pm and run through the 28th, on Sunday with closing ceremonies at 5:30pm. Some of the statistics of these games: 5,500 Olympic Games athletes and officials, 80+ countires paricipating, 10,000 media representatives, 3 billion worldwide television vieweres and 75 million visits worldwide going to Vancouver! This would be a good time to get your reservations confirmed in case you haven't. . . the world is coming! 2010 Winter Olympic Event Schedule attached: competition.pdf
At 47 PLUS years old, and still cruising around Seattle, the Monorail was the image of what was to be, or in this case what not to be. . . In honor of the concept and the hope it carried, we are bringing you other monorails from across various countries. The Cabintaxi German of 1973 is based on the start of the monorails already tested. Then next to that is the black and white monorail that for most people in the US, was indeed the "future" - the Disneyland Monorail. Thanks to Popular Mechanics we found some great concepts fully intended to eventually carry passengers across the entire country - with comfort, speed and ease. . Italy had their own concept as well. However, for those of us from this region, our heart still belongs to the Monorail running through EMP, from Seattle Center to the Westlake Mall. Not too bad for a soon to be antique - isn't that what it becomes when it officially hits "50"? If you haven't been up on the Monorail lately it is still worthy and what a view - a great way to get the overview of downtown Seattle. Here's hoping the City doesn't try to sell it on eBay.
More about the WSCFF Burn Foundation: The WSCFF Burn Foundation was founded in 1987 and is a 501(c)(3) charity to provide funding for burn research and burn prevention education. The WSCFF Burn Foundation is a separate organization from the WSCFF Benevolent Fund and operates as an independent registered charity. The foundation is operated solely by Washington State professional firefighters.
Funding is primarily raised by sales of an annual fire fighters calendar. Several stores throughout Washington State carry the calendar.
Donations from the foundation are then disbursed via grants after approval from the board of trustees. If you need information on WSCFF Burn Foundation grants, please contact them.
Since 1983, colourful giant animals have been spotted around the world. Some seem to emerge right out of the water, while others hang in the balance like some kind of animal laundry between close-knit buildings. Still others stand guard atop historic landmarks and downtown balconies while top predators revert to their basest instincts in a bid for survival. Created using recycled plastic bottles by Cracking Art Group, these animals represent the art collective’s strong social and environmental ethic while bringing accessible contemporary art to the masses. The art group, which consists of six members from Italy, France and Belgium, derived their name from the term used to describe the transformation of petroleum to plastic, called ‘catalytic cracking’. All six artists use the medium of plastic to give rise to their own interpretation of “our contemporary problems and tensions.”
What to get? The most relative question for the most relative of people . . . Dad . . . Father . . . . Pop . . . . Daddy . . . or maybe it's a first name because he's like a Father to someone. We are here to see if we can add to the confusion of possibilities circling in your head. If nothing more, maybe we can spark an idea. We captured options from the ridiculous, to the sublime, to well - see for yourself and read on!
For now, Inada’s Sogno sets their chair as the pinnacle of massage chair development with a highly refined program starting with an infrared scan to allocate your “Shiatsu” spots, which then mark the reference for one of 106 predefined massage routines. The chair almost covers your whole body fingertip-to-shoulder massage program. Now that's ridiculous. We WANT one.
The Brocantique antique foosball table is created from brightly polished art deco figures strung on silver rods framed with dark wood and tanned leather. The German craftsman of Brocantique refine old pieces that already surpassed their climax from a brand named Swinnen Automatique.
Next is the Wolf triple watch rotator that features one of Wolf Designs innovative patents. The patented rotation routine simulates an authentic daily use with sporadic rotations and preset sleep phases to prevent occurring intricacies of over-winded movements.
The first hands free cell phone ski and snowboard glove, the Swany g.cell gives your wrist a noticeable shake after detecting an incoming call and with a push on the back of the hand it literally allows you to talk to your hand. Nothing mentioned about a wrist protection but the phone will last for 12 hours on standby mode or 4 hours of talking-hand time.
Originally designed to master the damp, hilly terrain of British links courses, the Remote Controlled Caddie reaches up to 6 mph and provides optimal traction and stability when ascending hills or traversing the rough, gravel, or concrete. The pocket-sized remote control propels the device has a 150' range, while navigating the caddie. The 12-volt battery powers the caddie for up to 5 miles (up to 27 holes) on a single charge.
This leather case protects and recharges an iPhone, providing up to 13 hours of additional talk time. The case can recharge an iPhone up to 2 1/2 times before the case itself needs to be recharged.
Ooms Wooden USB Stick: the sticks are picked from the woods and are manually selected on their natural beauty, professionally handmade by Dutch company OOOMS.
The PRIE Tunewallet a smart and stylish nappa leather carrying case with room on one side for your iPod nano and on the other for business cards, your driver’s license, a credit card and cash...
Archos recently introduced a stunningly slender 9-inch device that’ll boost the ordinary day with mobile entertainment and deft finger exercises. The Archos 9 is an ultra compact tablet PC that runs a full Windows 7 OS
The new BOSS Green collection reveals two bright green impressions that are armed to impress and to differentiate even in contrast to the greenest golf courts. Breathable materials and an absolute water-resistance are a feature as a matter of course as also modern green-friendly arranged and forged spikes.
Another great on-the-go IPod charger is this little white adaptor for a mere $39.00 Available at: most Restoration Hardware Stores
Harrods’ (yes the English hallmark) luxury Krug Trunk is the perfect piece to impress anybody in sight. This well-crafted case is attractive and sturdy and very durable as its corners, hinges and handles are built to last which means they’re corrosion proofed to ensure that the case maintains its stately appearance. The Krug ensemble consists of a trunk with a classic vivid red colored calfskin interior, an ice bucket originally designed by Francois Bauchet, three bottles Krug Grande Cuvee champagne and to complete an exclusive picnic it comes with a removable trunk lid which does have dual functionality — it also can be used as a table. ONLY a mere $54,000 - Get two!
This limited tough-as-nails Stanley Thermos will be there keeping you warm with a hot cup of coffee on those cold days of hunting and fishing. A forever faithful gadget for the gentleman. On sale right now at Restoration Hardware $29.49 (was $59.00).
Nordstroms - Guide to Mens Clothing: every prolific man has to realize it once, and has to admit that “dress for success” is not just a generic quotation, it’s proven truth. Designer Tom Julian details a myriad of illustrations enlightening the reader about insider jargon, pattern combinations, and how to create your own look. $19.95
We were inspired by a book titled: The Most Beautiful Libraries of the World by Guillaume de Laubier (Author), Jacques Bosser (Photographer), James H. Billington (Contributor), Laurel Hirsch (translator) (Author). In the day and age of information, with the primary sourcing appears to be electronics and the internet, it is the "wow" factor of these incredible libraries that make us take a little step back. Here are just a hand full of the libraries we thought you might enjoy from the above book. Headed in the direction of any of these magnificant structures? Eco-tour idea: walk through and feed your eyes and your mind.
A: Bibliteca di Belle Arti Milano B: Stiftsbibliothek Klosterneuburg, Klosterneuburg, Austria C: Ruggs Library, Georgetown, NY D: Central Library - Seattle E: Suzzallo Library-Seattle F: Abbey Library St. Gallen, Switzerland G: Blioteca-general-da-universidade-de-coimbra-iv H: Melk Monastery Library, Melk, Austria I: Codrington-Oxford-England J: St Gall
Every office has one. You either love them or you hate them, but the office prankster is always planning his or her next attack. If you are looking for a laugh to kick of your day, head over to Best Office Pranks. Some pranks are harmless, and some are just down right mean, but most are good for a laugh or two.
Here are just a few of some of the pranks that surprised us.
Disclaimer: banquetevent.com does not endorse or recommend any of these pranks for your own office. If you or anyone you know decides to pull a prank in your own office, the responsibility for its outcome is on you.
For our Seattle based event planners, we will be starting a new weekly feature to help you get to know your city better. Check back every Thursday for more local ideas, tips, and advice. Just look for the "We Love _____" icon on each weekly post for local guides and resources.
Budgets may be a little tighter these days, but everyone needs a vacation right? If you are like us and are craving a little R&R these days, consider some hotel and resort options just around the corner. Staycations are a great way to take advantage of the utterly fantastic hotels and resorts in your neighborhood. After all, people come from afar to stay at some of the area's hottest and luxury hotels, and because you live within driving distance, you'll take enjoy the ritz and glam of a four star hotel, but without the cost of airfare, rental cars, and other travel expenses. So this winter and spring, do what we do, and plan your very own staycation. Here are some of our favorite hotspots you should check out.
Plan The Perfect Valentine's Day With Some Oldies But Goodies
When it comes to Valentine's Day and sharing it with your loved one, planning some traditional activities is always a winning movement. Here are some quick ideas to help you prepare for February 14th.
Plan 1: Stay In. If you plan to stay in for Valentine's Day, make the most of it by preparing everything from scratch. Make a sweet dessert and prepare a Valentine's menu. If you are not a great cook, no fear. Most of the restaurants around town offer take-out so call ahead of time and order your favorite meals for two. Finish the night with a romantic movie like "An Affair To Remember" and enjoy the company of your sweetheart.
Plan 2: Hit the Town. We suggest a dinner and a show option. Find out what is playing in your area and plan a night at the theatre, comedy club, jazz club or ballet. Your best bet is to find a place that serves food while you watch like Teatro Zinzanni in Seattle, WA. Be sure to dress the part in your best duds and make the most of this holiday that only comes around once a year.
Plan 3: Couple's Spa Day. Often Valentine's Day is best celebrated when you and your love can take a step back from the everyday stresses of life to recharge and rejuvinate. What better way to energize yourself than with a spa package for two?
Looking for a fun activity this weekend? Head over to the Parlor in Bellevue, WA for some comedy and laughs with Mark Curry from "Hanging With Mr. Cooper." Plus mark your calendars for more activities coming up including comedy shows, dualing piano shows, and even a Super Bowl Party this weekend.
The Parlor is also great for large groups. The Parlor Collection provides the right space for any event. Whether you’re looking for a fun spot to host an after-work gathering, a corporate team building event, a celebratory product launch, or a private party, The Parlor Collection has what you’re looking for. Private executive suites, semi-private ultra lounges, or select sections of billiards tables are available. From casual to elegant catering and exceptional first-class service, your guests will enjoy an environment like no other.
The economy is calling for all of us to "think creative" - More and more people are riding the scooter scene which is loaded with character from the classic original "Vespa" to the hot new entries in the market. Don't stop there - why not show YOUR style if you ride or are thinking of riding. It's just not "vanilla" anymore. The local Vespa store website is: http://www.vespaseattle.com/
Since you can easily customize your scooter - why not the helmet?
The helmet company, Ruby, designed by Honet, has painted a schizophrenic character he named: Pale Rider vs Surfin' Zombie." These are the tree helmet views at the bottom of the photo. The price tag on this pure style component is running anywhere from $500 to $1100. These are exclusive designs of the famous helmet designer in Paris. If you haven't checked these out - feast your eyes on their website: http://www.ateliersruby.com/. One of the closest dealers on the West Coast is VESPA OF CALIFORNIA. Enjoy the ride!
REMINDER! Meeting Planners Are from Mars, Speakers Are from Venus!
Comet relays this message from Santa. This meeting of planners and speakers is a step towards world peace. This is one of his most special gifts that took extreme care to organize. Santa asks you to picture the following scenarios:
The speaker demanded two wireless mics and a sound check 1.5 hours before the program. That’s an extra $150 per wireless microphone, plus we now need to have the AV guy to set it up which is $60 an hour. Our other speakers don’t have these requests. She also needs help to set up. Next, she will ask us to polish her tiara. What’s up with her?
Your out of town speaker, keeps asking you questions about the audience he will be addressing in his full day customer service program. It is annoying. We hire him to do his program, not to evaluate the personalities of everyone here. I feel like I am doing more work sharing with them, than he is doing. Argh!
Do you ever wonder why your speakers are adamant about trivial details? This is the time to ask professional speakers “why?” Plus this is a chance to share with your speakers the scope of your job as a planner and how the speaker fits into the big picture.
This is first time planners and speakers get to hash out their confusion about each other’s job and how to make each other look great for the client.
Meeting Planners Are from Mars, Speakers Are from Venus! An event hosted by NSA Northwest
Like Fred and Ginger, Franklin and Eleanor, even Kermit and Miss Piggy, Meeting Planners and Speakers have a classic relationship but frequently “Just don’t get it!” when working together. Like many a romance, we often fail to ask important questions at the beginning and assume we know each others’ needs, often resulting in a Ricky and Lucy explosion on Event Day: Meeting Planner: "Speaker! You got some splainin’ to do.” Speaker: " Waaaaaaah!”
And vice-versa. Truthfully, both Meeting Planners and Speakers want the same thing: a successful event with raves from audience members and clients requesting encores. Here’s how we’ll get it every time!
Within three hours, we’ll address the essentials of this partnership, and explode the myths on both sides of the speaker hiring question. This is an opportunity for professionals on both sides of the contract to get instant clarity and an edge over their competitors. In both panel and town hall formats we’ll address such burning issues as:
Meeting Planners: What are your responsibilities as a meeting planner? Where does a speaker rank in the hierarchy of venue, food, etc? What makes an ideal speaker?
Speakers: Which information is vital to get from the planner? Why floor plan, seating arrangements and food service affects your presentation. How other activities and topics in the schedule affect your program.
In addition to our discussions, we’ll have the opportunity for a few speakers to do a mini-showcase and get immediate feedback from people with the power to hire. Both Mars and Venus will leave with immediately applicable tools as the planets spin once again in sync—-and accomplish their shared goal of a memorable and compelling meeting for every audience, every time. That’s amore!
Members $30 Affiliates $45 First Time $40 Guests $75 Meeting Planners $20
Looking for some REAL holiday inspiration for yourself, your family or even your staff? Look no further - here are some GREAT ideas and places to go - don't worry - all you need to do is call, reserve your space, or show and the inspiration will be there waiting for you! Here are a few festive ideas! Have fun!
OPTION 1: Make a splash in your scrapbook with a family vacation at Great Wolf Lodge, conveniently located in Centralia, Washington between Seattle and Portland. And their Conference Center is also available for corporate and social functions for groups from 8 to 800.
OPTION 2: Get your tickets now for a Seattle tradition. The ACT's 33rd Annual production of A Christmas Carol is playing now. Calll the ticket office at (206) 292-7676. Special group prices for parties of 20 or more are available. Save up to 25%. Call (253) 839-4204 to book now!
OPTION 3: The Argosy Christmas Ship™ festival is a holiday celebration that has been a Northwest tradition for 59 years. Its main purpose is to bring communities together to celebrate the holiday season. Click here to watch a video.
OPTION 4: Book a table for fun, laughs and jaw-dropping acrobatics at Teatro Zinzanni. If this is your first time visiting, you are in for a real treat!
The Seattle Hotel Association's (SHA) 59-member hotels is proud to announce that H.S. Wright III and Kate Janeway are the honorees of its 12th annual fundraising dinner and gala auction, the "Evening of Hope." The highly anticipated gala will once again raise funds for Plymouth Housing Group, which provides supportive housing for more than 1000 individuals who would otherwise be homeless in downtown Seattle. The event will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel.
Learn more about this great cause and you can attend by clicking here.
This time of year there is inspiration for your event planning decorations everywhere you look in the form of Christmas lights. Never underestimate the simple additions of twinkling lights to your event decor. And try to be creative in the ways you use lighting at your event. Think outside the box like some of these fabulous examples below.
Nothing can take you away from the stresses of life like the movies can. That's why with all the hustle and bustle of the holiday approaching, Hollywood gives us a little escape in the form of blockbusters. Here's the buzz on the season's most talked about feature films...
Twilight
The Plot: In her new town of Forks, Washington, misfit teenager Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) falls for her alluring and mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson). As it turns out, Edward belongs to a lineage of vampires, although he doesn't fit the typical vampire mold. As their passion reaches dizzying heights, can Edward resist his natural urges, and will he be able to defend Bella from his family members who have come for her? Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Four Christmases
The Plot: A comedy about a married couple (Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn) from two divorced families who are tasked with attending four Christmas Day celebrations.
Australia
The Plot: Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat (Nicole Kidman) who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man (Hugh Jackman) in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
The Day The Earth Stood Still
The Plot: Aliens land on Earth with an important message for its citizens. A remake of the classic 1951 sci-fi film directed by Robert Wise.
Seven Pounds
The Plot: A professional man (Will Smith) who is close to suicide for his role in an auto accident that claimed the lives of seven people finds a reason to live, and to atone, when he falls for a woman (Rosario Dawson) who wants to help him deal with his grief. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Yes Man
The Plot: What happens when you agree with everyone and say "yes" to everything? Carl (Jim Carrey) is about to find out when he chooses to become overly agreeable for an entire year. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Revolutionary Road
The Plot: A young couple (Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio) raising a family in a Connecticut suburb during the mid-1950s look to break free from their frustratingly mediocre lives.
Valkyrie
The Plot: Near the end of WWII, Claus von Stauffenberg (Tom Cruise) leads to group of fellow German army colonels in an attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler; the event would later be called the July 20 Plot of 1944.
Marley & Me
The Plot: An impossibly cute, but impossible-to-live-with yellow Labrador retriever named Marley teaches his newlywed owners (Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson) a thing or two about patience and parenthood.
Last Chance Harvey
The Plot: During a weekend in which Harvey Shine (Dustin Hoffman) travels to London for his daughter's wedding, her first learns that he's lost his job back in New York, then he discovers he won't be the man giving away the bride at the ceremony. The one good thing that happens -- his meeting Kate (Emma Thompson), a prickly but nevertheless enchanting Londoner -- might be the beginning of some much-needed change in Harvey's life. Our Pick! Watch the trailer...
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Plot: Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt) was born under unusual circumstances. As everyone around him grew older, he aged backwards, making the challenges of life such as creating friendships, finding a job and falling in love all the more difficult and heartbreaking. Our Pick!
If you are looking to build morale within your own company consider looking toward your employees for inspiration. A local company out of Seattle called Noetix is doing just that. Noetix has taken life size images of the people that work there and created an employee wall of fame. Photos where taken at a company event and posted on one of the hallways at the company. Now when employees arrive, they are reminded how important they are to the company each and every day.
Get ready for a day of turkey day gorging with the annual Turkey Trot fun walk. Proceeds from the Turkey Trot held November 16, will not only benefit your waistline, but also the Hopelink organization that provides emergency services for low-income families in east and north King County during the winter months when they faces added pressures such as higher home heating costs and additional food needs. Hopelink anticipates an increase by 20% of those visiting food banks this year, and the money raised through the Turkey Trot will go toward providing those in need with the resources they need.
Registration for the fun walk begins at Noon on the 16th at Carillon Point in Kirkland. The walk starts at 1 pm. You may also pre-register to receive a $5 discount.
Our holiday inspiration boards continue with this easy to re-create and ultra spectacular Thanksgiving board. Planning an entertaining and family-friendly turkey day has never been easy.
Theme: Giving Thanks, duh! Colors: Stick to pale oranges, cranberry reds and sage green
The Decor: We like choosing simple decor items that can also carry you into the Christmas season. So stick with fruits and vegetables and dark greens as your design backdrop.
The Food: When it comes to planning a meal for a large group, don't try to do everything yourself. Ask your guests to bring a side dish, and don't feel like you are backing out of the responsibilities by asking others to help out with the meal. Remember, it is Thanksgiving after all, so let your friends give. Of course, there is always the main staple, the infamous turkey. If you are a Tom Douglas mini-me, go ahead and try to make your own frozen/thawed turkey with all the dressings. But if you are like us, consider a catered turkey or a pre-cooked turkey from Honeybaked Ham. Add your own garnishes, and be sure to throw away any evidence of a "store bought" bird so your guests will never know. And, if nothing else, ditch the canned cranberry sauce for the real thing. It's pretty simple to make and you can gloat that you made it from scratch all night long.
The Entertainment: How often do you have all your friends and family together? Not that often right, so make the most of it. Pull out some "family fun" games and stick Miracle on 34th Street in the dvd player. (Yes, we realize this is a "Christmas" movie, but the movie starts out depicting the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, so work with us here).
The Mood: From the moment your guests step inside your welcoming home, make sure they are bombarded (that's right, we said bombarded) with the scent of the holidays. Our pick is the lovely scent of spiced pumpkin, which can also carry you right into the Christmas season. Create the scent with burning oil, candles and room sprays and add extra touches with scented soaps and lotions in the bathroom.
The Booze: Be adventurous and try out a new fall-themed cocktail like spiked hot cider, pecan martini or pomegranate mint mojito. What other time of year can you try something so festive?
On The Plane, On the Train, In A Boat, While You Float
When it comes to event planners, we are often on the go, go, go, so reading the next great novel isn't always an easy task. Until now. It's already been endorsed by Oprah as her new favorite thing, and we must admit, the new Amazon Kindle is worth all the buzz.
Utilizing a new high-resolution display technology called electronic paper, Kindle provides a crisp black-and-white screen that resembles the appearance and readability of printed paper. The screen works using ink, just like books and newspapers, but displays the ink particles electronically. It reflects light like ordinary paper and uses no backlighting, eliminating the glare associated with other electronic displays. As a result, Kindle can be read as easily in bright sunlight as in your living room.The screen never gets hot so you can comfortably read as long as you like.
Last week we blogged about the sales of political Halloween masks and how their sales can often predict the winner of the presidential election. Now comes another, so-called "predictor" from 7-11 convenience stores. Let us introduce you to the 2008 7-Election, where 7-11 coffee drinkers show their support for one candidate over another by drinking from their respective choice's coffee cup.
Now you may be like us and wonder if any of these "predictors" are really accurate. Well, according to 7-11, during the 2000 7-Election, the George W. Bush cups outsold the Al Gore cups by just 1%...and we all remember how that election turned out. 7-11 also states that during the 2004 7-Election, the results tracked identically with published national election results: 51% George W. Bush and 49% for John Kerry (within a few percentage points of actual poll results in many states!).
So where does the 7-Election stand today? According to the national results tallied thus far, Barack Obama leads John McCain 60% to 40%. In Washington State, Obama also leads McCain 68% to 38%.
Can this all be true? Time will tell. Click here to track the results yourself.
Hey all you voters? Want to spread the word that you will be voting come this November? Send in your "I Will Vote" photo to the Secretary of State website. Check out some of the great photos we've found of local voters pledging to vote.
If you have children in grades K-12 and want to teach them about the importance of the upcoming election, encourage them to vote in the Washington State Mock Election. Voting starts at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, October 27 and the polls close at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 31. Results are posted after 5:00 p.m.
When voting begins, students participating in the Mock Election must "register to vote" by submitting their name and school. They will immediately receive a unique voter ID number, a printable voter registration card, and their ballot. Ballots are cast online. Election results will be available after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31.
Students will vote on all the same issues facing adults and will also vote to elect the next President and Vice President of the United States as well as local Governor.
Whoever said Halloween was for kids was clearly mistaken. We'd like to introduce our new "Get Inspired!" series of party planning inspiration boards to help you get your creative juices flowing for your own happening events. After all, we are entering the busiest season of all, jam-packed with one holiday after another. So let's get started with our first board of the season!
Theme: A Grown-Up Halloween Colors: Black and Orange
The Colors: Go classic orange and black. Since orange is not a color most people use often, select accent pieces like napkins, candlesticks and small decorations that are orange in color. Then choose black items that are more recyclable like your chairs, table linens and candlesticks to complete the look.
The Decor: Halloween is a pretty simple holiday to find decorations for. But if you have the time and energy, try simple crafts for your decorations like pumpkin carving, glittered votive candle holders and edible spooky snacks. Homemade decorations are far more interesting and impressive.
The Entertainment: What would a Halloween party be without a scary film? We checked AFI's top 50 horror films and the film Psycho topped the list. Even if you aren't all going to sit down and watch it intently, stick it in your dvd player and let it run. Just the screams and scary music will add to the overall abiance.
The Food: Plan a meal that allows people to gather around the table, talk and mingle. A formal sitdown dinner is just not appropriate for a Halloween party. Consider a fondue party with cheddar cheese dip. It's a fun and tasty activity, plus it matches your color scheme!
The Fun: Since it is a Halloween Party after all, costumes are a must! Give an award for the best costume and the most creative costume. It will turn your event into a competition, encouraging your guests to step it up a notch. And since you are the awesome party planner that you are, we suggest going as Mr. or Mrs. Incredible!
Mirror Mirror On The Wall, Who Is The Scariest Of Them All?
It has often been said that people's choice of political Halloween costumes can often predict the winner and loser of the presidential race. You may predict that the most purchased political mask of the year would equal the candidate the voters think is the "scariest" option. After all, this is Halloween and the time for spooks and tricks. But, surprisingly, that is not the case. According to online costume retailers, the quantity of political masks purchased predicts the winner, not loser of the presidential race. In fact, they say that they have been able to predict the winner of the last seven elections, simply by mask sales!
So who will win this year? According to a recent article featured on AOL.com, so far, Barack Obama masks are outselling John McCain masks in Spirit Halloween and iParty stores and online at Amazon and BuyCostumes.com.
Will mask sales predict the winner? We'll just have to wait and see.
