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Monday, June 15, 2009
Ideas . . . . Ideas . . . . .
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
Sometimes ad campaigns rise above just the product level. This might be for a product thought of as French, however a good deal of Marc Jacobs' influence is present in this campaign celebrating mankind's amazing accomplishments. As their ad campaign states, "Some journeys change mankind forever."
Sally Ride, first American woman in space
Buzz Aldrin, Apollo 11, first steps on the moon in 1969
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 unique Valentine's Day gift for your loved one? We have a very unique idea for you. Let us introduce you to CharityBuzz. Through online auctions, CharityBuzz raises funds for a variety of organizations and causes. CharityBuzz works with non-profits founded by the most famous names on the planet, including Bette Midler, Andre Agassi, Rosie O'Donnell, Eddie Vedder, Petra Nemcova, Mrs. Robert F. Kennedy and Denis Leary, as well as with smaller charities that address particular needs in their local communities. While publicity efforts may logically focus on the big names, all charities — large and small — benefit from the increased traffic at our website generated by star power. Simply stated, great products partnered with celebrity causes creates "buzz" and generates sales and raises awareness for all of their charity partners.
Going on now through February 12 is a special Valentine's Day auction, with items for bid that you can give as a gift to your special valentine. Check it out. Some of the items are pretty outrageous but remember its all for a good cause.
1. The inaugural platform is constructed entirely from scratch for each inaugural ceremony. 2. The platform will be more than 10,000 square feet—the same size as the platform used for the 2005 inaugural, which was the largest platform ever built for an inauguration. 3. On inauguration day it will hold more than 1,600 people including:
The President and Vice-President-elects and their families
Members of U.S. Senate and House of Representatives
Cabinet members and nominees
Justices of the Supreme Court
The outgoing President and Vice President
Former presidents
The Joint Chiefs of Staff
Governors
The diplomatic corps
4. In addition, bleachers built above the platform, on the Upper West 5. Terrace will hold another 1,000 people including choirs and guests. 6. It is built entirely of lumber, to protect the surfaces of the Capitol. 7. The platform is fully ADA compliant. 8. It is a stadium design, which maximizes the sightlines for the guests on the platform. 9. It is designed to blend architecturally with the U.S. Capitol. 10. Planning and design of the platform began more than a year ago.
The 2009 Presidential Inauguration is just days away. Let's take a moment to review the history of this historic event.
President Andrew Jackson takes the oath of office on March 4, 1829 on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol. Jackson's first Inauguration was the first Inaugural ceremony held on the east front of the U.S. Capitol.
President James Buchanan's Inauguration, on March 4, 1857, is the first known inauguration to be photographed. The platform was on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol.
President Rutherford B. Hayes takes the oath of office on March 5, 1877 on the inaugural platform on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol. This image first appeared on the Cover of Harpers Weeklyon Saturday, March 24, 1877.
President Theodore Roosevelt delivers his inaugural address on March 4, 1905 on the inaugural platform on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt takes the oath of office on March 4, 1933 on the inaugural platform on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol. Amendment XX to the U.S. Constitution, which was ratified January 23, 1933, set the President's term of office to expire on January 20 at noon.
President Dwight D. Eisenhower takes the oath of office with President Harry S Truman observing on the inaugural platform on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol.
President Lyndon B. Johnson takes the oath of office on January 20, 1965 on the inaugural platform on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol.
President Ronald Reagan delivers his inaugural address on January 20, 1981 on the inaugural platform on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. Reagan's inauguration broke tradition by taking place on the west front terrace of the U.S. Capitol, rather than the east front. The west front could accommodate more visitors.
President Bill Clinton delivers his inaugural address on January 20, 1997 on the inaugural platform on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol.
The White House prepares for the 2009 Inaugural events.
Michelle Obama and her family have created quite a ring of excitement in anticipation of what designer and what gown she will wear to the Presidential Inaugural balls. She will have a few to go to. She has a definite style that will cause a sensation no matter what she chooses. Several designers have submitted ideas and here are a few. What style do you think she is?
Top Row from left to right: 1.Michael Kors elegance in blue - a gown showing style eternally 2. Diane Von Furstenberg shows a possible suite for the swearing in ceremony very retro '60s feel in so many ways. 3. Karl Lagerfeld (for Chanel) presents a traditional white suit inspired by the Chanel feel and a black beaded gown combination. Remind you of a previous First Lady feel? 4. Everyone's favorite design, Marc Jocobs presents an over drape look in custard that reflects previous style choices the new First Lady has worn
Middle Row from left to right: 5. Issac Mizrahi fashioned a trio of beautiful colors and looks for all three of the ladies. 6. Oscar de la Renta also suggested a trio of patriotic colors in red white and blue for the First Lady and two daughters. 7. In one of Michelle Obama's favoroite color picks apple green, Carolina Herrera's sketch is breath-taking and would also be a beautiful option for Michelle Obama 8. The French designer Christian Lacroix steps in with a beautiful coat/suit in flag blue to stand by her husband for swearing in ceremonies. 9.Lacroix once again provides a regal evening gown in deep blue with a red overcap to complete the transition to the Inaugural ball. 10. Lacroxie's final offerings show two additional evening gown options for the balls.
Bottom Row 11. Diane Von Furstenberg sketches a white formal gown with details on the shoulders, waist and hemline - sashed at the center.
Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. We are very thankful to all of you that read our blog daily and who frequently use our resources at banquetevent.com.
Thanksgiving Dinner From Someone Else's Kitchen Tastes Just As Good
Fabulous home-cooked feasts are a traditional part of Thanksgiving. They can also be a lot of work and a lot of stress. If you'd rather devote your energy to quality time with friends and family, dining out on Thanksgiving Day is a perfectly fine alternative. Since this has become a popular option, reservations are usually required. These resources will help you find out which Puget Sound area restaurants will be serving dinner on Thanksgiving.
Open Table - this online restaurant reservation services has a special section devoted to restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving
The Seattle Times - lists menu items, restaurant hours, and price range
CitySearch Seattle - in addition to listing open restaurants, this site lists Thanksgiving catering and takeout options
Gayot.com - this restaurant review web site provides a list of Thanksgiving dining options as well as links for reservations
Local Restaurants Serving Thanksgiving Dinner...
0/8 Seafood Grill & Twisted Cork Wine Bar Bellevue, WA Chef Dan is offering a Thanksgiving buffet of traditional fare as well as fresh local seafood. Cost: $38.95/adult, $16.95/child 5-12, free for children under 5 w/ an adult Time: Noon to 7 p.m. Reservations highly recommended
Andaluca Seattle in the Mayflower Park Hotel Offering the regular menu. Time: 3-9 p.m. Reservation recommended.
Brasserie Margaux Belltown A Thanksgiving Day buffet. Time: 1-8 p.m. Cost: $39/adult, $14.95/child under 12). Included validated parking.
Chandler's Crabhouse Lake Union Offering a 4-course dinner including traditional roast turkey, herb roasted prime rib, or fresh seafood delicacies. Cost: $44.95 Reservations Recommended
Clinkerdagger Spokane, WA Offering our regular dinner menu along with a featured Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner. Time: 3:30-8 p.m. Reservations Recommended
Cutter's Bayhouse Seattle, WA Offering a large variety of our most popular items as well as traditional Thanksgiving Day dinners. Time: Noon - 8 p.m. Reservations Recommended
Daniel's Broiler Lake Union, Bellevue Place and Leschi Marina Offer a delicious, 4-course dinner including traditional roast turkey or USDA Prime beef. Cost: $49.95
Maggiano's Little Italy Bellevue Celebrate Thanksgiving with your family & friends! Their special menu includes roast turkey, country style ham, garlic mashed potatoes, pumpkin praline cheesecake, & more! Cost: $34.95 per person (adults) and $16.95 per child. Carry out and home delivery also available.
McCormick & Schmick's Offering a limited menu, incl. a traditional turkey dinner, prime rib, salmon, crab, and lamb chops. Reservations Recommended
Ponti Seafood Grill Seattle, WA Join us for a traditional 3-course menu featuring grilled salmon, prime rib, and turkey. Cost: $39/adult, $15/child Time: 1-8 p.m.
Toscano Bellevue Offering a delicious Thanksgiving buffet with over 100 items! Cost:$39/adult, $20/child 6-12
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?
Have A Spooktacular Halloween from Banquetevent.com!
Wishing you all a safe and fun Halloween!
If you like carved pumpkins but don't want to deal with the hassle of cleaning out the insides and making a mess, click here to start carving your very own pumpkin.
Check out our work below. Okay, okay, we admit it's the prettiest pumpkin of all, but give us a break!
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.
Emerald City Applause Awards Wednesday, October 15, 2008 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM at the Columbia Tower Club 701 5th. Ave, 75th. Floor Seattle, WA 98104
Celebrating the Gems of our Industry
The entries are entered, the judges have judged, and the excitement is building in anticipation of the 4th Annual Emerald City Applause Awards!
Join your colleagues and friends in honoring the best of the best in Washington’s event industry! Your presence is requested to come and savor the excellent work done by some of the top companies in our industry.
NACE AUCTION October 21st Annual Auction RSVP by October 16th 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 21st, 2008 RSVP by Thursday, October 16th at www.TacomaNACE.net Sharon McGavick Student & Conference Center Clover Park Technical College 4500 Steilacoom Blvd. SW Building 23 Lakewood, WA 98499
The Tacoma/South Puget Sound Chapter of the National Association of Catering Executives invites you to our annual auction Cooking up Success! benefiting Clover Park Technical College's Culinary Arts and Floral programs & the NACE education program.
Murder Mystery aboard the historic Steamship Virginia V November 1, 2008 7-10 p.m. Departs from Seattle's Lake Union Park 860 Terry Avenue North Seattle, WA. 98109 For a cruise around Lake Union and Lake Washington
Join Events on the Edge and the historic Steamship Virginia V for a special Halloween theme murder mystery celebration and adventure aboard the High Seas, with a 3 hour Dinner Cruise around Lake Union and Lake Washington. Halloween costumes are welcome but not required! Time: Boarding/cocktails 6pm. Mystery & Dinner Cruise 7-10pm Cost: $85.00 per person plus $2.00 fuel surcharge for Buffet Dinner, Mystery & Cruise (does not incl tax or gratuity) Tickets: Available online at www.virginiav.org or call 206.624.9119 Parking: Lot & street parking is available at Lake Union Park.
To assist you in planning for 2009, Olympia Lacey Tumwater Visitor & Convention Bureau invite you to participate in the Umbrella Tour. Specifically designed for meeting and event planners, this two-day event is sure to get you acquainted with Thurston County as a meeting and event destination.
RSVP TO: Heather Antanaitis, Membership & Marketing Development Olympia Lacey Tumwater Visitior & Convention Bureau Toll Free: 877.704.7544 Email: marketing@visitolympia.com
Whether you have never been to the area or it is been a while since your last visit, this Familiarization Tour is sure to give you a fresh perspective on what the region has to offer. You will experience our finest attractions, explore restaurants and enjoy two complimentary room nights at the Phoenix Inn & Suites/Red Lion Olympia.
Please join us for the Umbrella Tour November 15-17th. Space is limited, so we ask that you RSVP by November 5th.
Foodz Catering is proud to be sponsoring FareStart as a part of their Guest Chefs program on October 9th. This is a chance for us to give back to the community and help make the lives of some homeless a little better. Join us for a 3 course dinner for only $ 24.95. Call (206) 267 - 6210 or try reservations@farestart.org. Chef Shelby, Chef Anne and Chef Sarah will spend the day working with the people in the program to create and serve your meal. All proceeds go back to FareStart to help support this wonderful effort.
Check out this upcoming event at Castle Bridge Winery, a boutique winery in Kent , WA. Come for music, wine, chocolate and fun!
Wine, Chocolate and Live Music September 27, 2008 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pm Location: Castle Bridge Winery 7645 South 180th Street Kent WA 98032 Contact: Linda Phone: 425-251-0983 Email: cbwinery@earthlink.net RSVP required
Tickets: $10.00 per person/$18.00 couple At the door: 15.00 per person/25.00 couple Relax and Indulge Live music by Suzanne Brewer
Thank you to all of those that attended the 2008 Northwest Event Show. It was a HUGE success and we are already planning ahead for next year's show. Check back tomorrow as we get back to work, bringing you more great event and business planning tips, ideas and inspirations.
Sneak Peek: Attend the 2008 Northwest Event Show Tomorrow And Receive the 2009 Event Resource Guide - FREE!
That's right, just by attending the 2008 Northwest Event Show tomorrow at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, you'll receive the 2009 Event Resource Guide as our complimentary gift ($14.95 value). The Event Resource Guide is jam-packed with tools and resources for the event planner in the Pacific Northwest. From caterers to venues to entertainers and speakers, the Event Resource Guide has it all.
B&E has published the Event Resource Guide for over a decade, but the 2009 edition is our first to be printed in full color. And we don't mean to brag or anything, but it's our best guide EVER!
Those that don't attend the Northwest Event Guide will have to wait for their copy, so come to the show and get yours hot of the press.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: Robinson Designs & Events
When you want to transform a room, decorate for a theme or style, or just create that one magical focal point for your ceremony or reception, call Robinson Design & Events!
Robinson Designs & Events, artists, designers, fabricators...long respected members of the Pacific Northwest event community, offers full-service décor for all kinds of social and corporate events. Our goal is to surprise and delight their clients and their guests.
Each year at the Northwest Event Show, Robinson Designs & Events creates new themed environments that simple amaze us. We can't wait to see what they come up with this year.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: Hollywood Lighting Inc. & PNTA
Don't you just love options? One of the greatest parts about the 2008 Northwest Event Show is that it presents you with so many qualified businesses and services that will meet your needs. Two of our sponsors, Hollywood Lighting Inc. and PNTA, for example, can take your event to new levels with regards to event production, lighting, sound, staging, and design. Just come to the Northwest Event Show, this upcoming Tuesday, for just a taste of what these two incredible companies can do.
A little more about them:
Hollywood Lighting has been a staple of the Northwest Event Show for many years, and each year they continue to amaze with their creativity and knowledgeable staff. Talk to anyone in the business and you'll learn that Hollywood Lighting will exceed your expectations. In 1994, they opened a Seattle office to service rentals and sales for the area. Today, they have a 9200 square foot showroom and warehouse between Safeco Field and Boeing Field. The showroom will make more supplies, expendables and equipment available for rental and sales to the theater, church and event community of Puget Sound. In 2002 they opened a Production Lighting Department in Seattle and now provide those services to the theater and corporate world.
PNTA may be new to the Northwest Event Show this year, but they are certainly not new to the world of event production. From their humble beginning in 1975 as the local, Seattle-area supplier of theatrical equipment and consumables, PNTA has expanded our staff and capabilities over the years to provide a wealth of services for customers across the country. While they still sell supplies and equipment for the theatrical and entertainment industries, now they do it both online and at their spacious new warehouse location at 615 S. Alaska Street. They also rent and repair equipment. PNTA's technical service people are experts at integrating and retrofitting system components to keep lighting control, sound and special effects equipment up and running. They also provide theatrical drapes and soft goods. Corporate, non-profit and private clients alike choose PNTA’s Event Services to help them host memorable events with a flair for the dramatic and a watchful eye to the details.
Come see these two incredible companies at the Northwest Event Show, September 23 at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center. Register NOW!
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: MTM Luxury Lodging
MTM Luxury Lodging manages the Puget Sound's most unique, boutique hotels. Each of their properties are designed and shaped to blend with its natural surroundings. Some of their properties sit in the center of city, while others are surrounded by vineyards or water. No matter the property, each MTM Luxury Lodging venue will match the match the vision for your next event perfectly. And lucky for us, they have gathered together as a sponsor for the 2008 Northwest Event Show, giving you the opportunity to learn more about their offerings.
Meet the Group:
Nestled on the scenic shores of Hood Canal just two hours from Seattle, Washington, Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a world away from the everyday. Our newly renovated resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art conference and event facilities, a full service spa, and a first-class restaurant. And it's all in one convenient - not to mention breath taking - location. It's no wonder Alderbrook has become the Northwest's premier destination for both leisure travelers and conference retreat planners.
Poised 900 feet above the Columbia River, Cave B Inn at SageCliffe is surrounded by estate vineyards, fragrant orchards and thought-provoking beauty. Intimate in nature, experiential by design, Cave B was created to celebrate those things which elevate and refresh us, providing an enriching environment where guests can experience firsthand the power of the land. Comprised of 30 guestrooms, including 15 finely appointed Cliffehouses, and our new swimming pool, accommodations offer breathtaking views of sky, water, canyon and vineyard.
The epitome of Seattle’s high-tech reputation, Hotel 1000 quickly established itself as the premier luxury hotel in downtown Seattle. Intimate and customized service joined with modern convenience is equally appealing to both leisure and business travelers setting the foundation for the hotels growing customer loyalty. Having celebrated just one year of operation at summer’s end 2007, Hotel 1000 now leads the market in rate and RevPAR. Discover the many distinctive qualities that differentiate Hotel 1000: from fully integrated, wired-to-serve technology to intimate, soothing, residential design to delightful surprises — a bathtub that fills from the ceiling and artwork that meets your personal preference.
Gracing downtown with its breathtaking Italianate architecture for a century, the Sorrento is an oasis of luxury, and one of Seattle’s most recognized and cherished landmarks. Overlooking the downtown city skyline, the Sorrento is a most unique upscale hotel offering an intimate setting of 76 guestrooms and suites as well as 6 banquet, meeting, and event rooms. As the longest running luxury hotel in Seattle, and recognized as the “grand dame” of Seattle, the Sorrento is defined by legendary hospitality, living up to its reputation as one of the finest hotel destinations in Seattle.
With its massive fireplace, Northwest ambiance, luxurious beds and five acres of magical gardens, Willows Lodge is a celebration of the senses where guests feel pampered and revived. Just a 20 minute drive from Seattle and a short stroll from award winning wineries, the 84-room rustic retreat offers a host of civilized comforts, including a full-service spa and two of the most highly-rated restaurants in the Northwest — The Herbfarm Restaurant and the Barking Frog. The unique ambiance of the Lodge adds an extra dimension of charm to all occasions, while our five acres of gardens lend themselves to truly unforgettable events.
The Woodmark Hotel, Yacht Club & Spa is a luxury lakeside hotel located in Kirkland WA, just minutes away from Seattle, WA. As the only hotel on the shores of Lake Washington, this east of Seattle hotel showcases shoreline views of the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains. The Woodmark Hotel and world class Spa embraces travelers with the charm of a private residence combining intimacy and elegance. Prominently set within the Carillon Point waterfront community east of Seattle, the Woodmark Hotel is near shopping, galleries, and tourist destinations; and minutes from major corporate offices including Microsoft, Google, T-Mobile and AT&T. Downtown Seattle is just a 15 minute drive with easy freeway access.
The Northwest Event Show Partners with PCMA and MPI Meetings Industry Summit
MEETING THE CHALLENGEGaining... Networking... Sharing7th Annual Meetings Industry Summit
For the first time in the show's history, the Northwest Event Show will be held in conjunction with the 7th Annual Meetings Industry Summit, hosted by MPI and PCMA.
One day. Two spectacular events!
Location: Washington State Convention & Trade Center Schedule: 7:30am - 8:00am: Check-In & Networking 8:00am - 11:30am: Breakfast and Program 11:00am - 5:00pm: Tour the Northwest Event Show Floor and enjoy all the delicious samples Cost: $75 for Summit, Pre-registration is required, Free to attend the Northwest Event Show For a student discount, please email Jessica@apulent.com
Come network with Industry leaders and experts and participate in interactive discussions on the hottest industry trends.
Keynote Speaker: Enabling Change with George Myers, Partner Effectiveness Institute
Also Featuring: Tom Norwalk, President and CEO of Seattle's Convention & Visitors Bureau presents "State of the Industry"
Panel of Industry Experts include: Moderator: Michael McQuade, Director of Sales & Marketing, Washington State Convention and Trade Center Panelists: Richard Moore, Co-Founder TPN Events Jeanne Berry, Principal, RealTime Productions Debra Vasseur, Travel and Meetings Manager, Starbucks Coffee Company Rachel Hall, Operations Manager, Hollywood Lighting Services
Thank You to the Summit's Presenting Sponsors: Aramark Blue Danube Hollywood Lighting PJ Hummel & Company, Inc The Extreme Group The Production Network Washington State Convention & Trade Center WestCoast Drape
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor: Destination Hotels & Resorts
The wonderful part about living in the Northwest is that true getaway destinations are just a short drive away. And fortunately for us, we have three of the finest destination resorts around exhibiting at the Northwest Event Show. And fortunately for you, just by attending the show, you'll have the chance to win a trip for two to each of these fabulous destinations.
Skamania Lodge, a magnificent mountain resort nestled on 175 wooded acres, is located in the spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The rustic yet elegant, grand mountain Lodge is located just 45 miles east of Portland, Oregon, on the Washington side of the Columbia River.
"Skamania" is the Chinook Indian word for "swift water". The resort, which overlooks the Columbia River is aptly named, as there are also over 70 waterfalls nearby, including the famous Multnomah Falls, which, at 620 feet, is the fifth highest waterfall in the United States.
Surrounded by Cascade peaks and set alongside the Cle Elum River, Suncadia offers the ultimate luxury mountain resort experience, combining year round outdoor recreation and luxurious accommodations and amenities. From championship golf, spectacular hiking, fly fishing, downhill and cross-country skiing, to spa treatments, and fine dining, Suncadia is a place for friends and family to relax and reconnect.
Suncadia's luxury lodging can accommodate groups of any size. The Inn at Suncadia is an intimate, elegant lodge in a mountain setting with golf course views and stunning Northwest-style design. The Lodge at Suncadia is a lodge in the grandest Northwest tradition, featuring majestic architecture, panoramic river and mountain views, and all the amenities of a full-service luxury hotel and conference center. A collection of custom, Cle Elum vacation rental homes is also available at Suncadia.
Sunriver Resort, located 15 miles south of Bend, Oregon on the dry side of the Cascade Mountains, is a AAA Four-Diamond award winning property. With a unique blend of full-service resort amenities, personalized service, year-round world-class recreation, natural beauty, and the Pacific Northwest ambiance, Sunriver Resort is the Northwest’s premier destination resort.
For a memorable golf outing, quality family vacation, that important corporate meeting, or a rejuvenating spa getaway, discover why Sunriver Resort is the Heart & Soul of the Great Northwest®
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: Stella Color
We'd like to introduce you to another newbie at the Northwest Event Show this year, Stella Color. At Stella Color, it's all about making big ideas come to life, and doing it with eco-friendly techniques.
Stella Color has been a leader in the digital large format print industry since 1988, and is now helping to lead the way in exploring eco-friendly green printing processes in the large format digital printing world.
They offer a broad variety of digitally printed products and services. They print and produce convention and trade show displays, exhibit displays, indoor and outdoor signage, custom wall coverings for business and home, poster printing, advertising graphics, custom window displays, retail wall displays, vinyl vehicle graphics, and much more!
All of the signage at the 2008 Northwest Event Show will be printed by Stella Color, so we urge you to pay special attention to their quality and start thinking about the ways you can utilize Stella's services for own events or business needs.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Highlight: WestCoast Drape
We are pleased to welcome WestCoast Drape as an exhibitor in the Northwest Event Show for the first time. Drape and fabric has the ability to turn an ordinary room into an extraordinary display of creativity and design. With WestCoast Drape your options are truly limitless.
On New Year’s Day 2006 Wes Walterman, opened WestCoast Drape with an idea of creating a premier drape company. Walterman joined forces with Scott Galloway as VP of Operations and Sales to develop and honor standards of product value, business integrity, and customer service designed to eclipse the competition. From their home base in Portland, Oregon, they began working to set a new standard in pipe and drape rental. Today, WestCoast Drape has seven satellite offices throughout the western United States including Seattle, Phoenix, Portland, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, and San Francisco.
WestCost Drape is the official drape provider for the 2008 Northwest Event Show. They will also be on hand to answer your questions and showcase their impressive portfolio and stock fabrics.
2008 Northwest Event Show Sponsor Hightlight: PJ Hummel & Co.
One of the best things about the Northwest Event Show is our amazing sponsor lineup. We have the best of the best in event design, production and execution in the business. And for one day, they all come together to show off their stuff. This week and next, we'll be introducing you to sponsors one by one, so you can get a head start in knowing which exhibitors are the ones you need to look for first.
Today, we'd like to highlight PJ Hummel & Co., one of the best known event decorators in the area today. PJ Hummel & Company, Inc. is an award-winning event décor and production company—creating impressive special events for private and corporate clients. A one-stop shop for your entire event design needs. In today’s world of doing more with less, you need to get maximum return on your event investment. With PJ Hummel, the only limitation you have is your imagination.
PJ Hummel & Company strives to provide the finest event design and décor, delivered with impeccable style and grace. Each event is carefully planned with a purpose to create unforgettable tangible experiences.
PJ Hummel & Company has been collecting authentic props, antiques, and theme décor for over 30 years. The company’s design studio and magical themed warehouse is located in Tacoma, WA on the Middle Waterway. PJ Hummel & Company’s magical themed prop warehouse makes the company unique. An interactive space with over 15,000 square feet, filled with ideas and promises of dreams to be. The Company’s warehouse is open to clients to experience and explore. A total of 10 multi-sensory vignettes are set for clients to view and touch, including lighting and special effects.
Look for PJ's designs the moment you walk into the registration lobby of the Northwest Event Show and also in the center of the show floor as she and her team of professionals create a stunning "rest area" for you to kick back and relax after a day of fun and eating!
But wait, have you registered yet? If not, head over to nweventshow.com and register today. Only those that pre-registered will receive validation for free parking!
Only three weeks now until the 2008 Northwest Event Show takes place at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center on September 23. Have you registered yet? If not, here are just a few of the reasons why you should...
It's 100% free to attend. That's right, the Northwest Event Show is free for all qualified meeting and event planners. Heck, even if you only plan one event a year, or have never planned an event before but have a major one coming up, this show is for you!
Not only is it free, but we'll also give you free stuff! Just for attending the show you'll receive the 2009 B&E Event Resource Guide as our complimentary gift. The guide retails for $14.95 in bookstores, and truly is the most comprehensive planning tool around. The best part is, the 2009 edition will be in FULL COLOR for the first time ever. And you'll be receiving it hot of the press!
The Northwest Event Show is occurring in conjunction with the 2008 SUMMIT INDUSTRY Meeting, also a first. If you are planning on attending the SUMMIT you'll get two great shows on one day.
You'll learn the latest Green Event Planning Tips. This year's event is going green and we have the best ideas and inspirations in town so you can plan greener events too.
Chances to win three weekend getaways to Skamania Lodge, Suncadia Resort, and Sunriver Resort complete with the royal treatment.
The exhibitors are top-notch! With over 250 booths you'll never get another chance like this to meet with the area's top event planning professionals, in one place, on one day. They are the best of the best in design, catering, entertainment, team building and more!
All the food your belly can take, and then a little more. You'll get to sample the best food Northwest caterers have to offer. It's definitely not a day to wear tight pants!
Have we convinced you yet? If so, head on over to nweventshow.com and register for the 2008 Northwest Event Show! You cannot afford to miss this spectacular event!
Have you ever noticed that the city you live in is the one city you hardly know? In other words, when you go on a vacation to another place you find out what the main attractions are and plan sightseeing tours or trips to go see them. But in the own city you live in you often get caught up in your day-to-day agenda and neglect its own attractions and so-called "touristy" activities.
With a three-day weekend coming up, here's your chance to get re-acquainted with your city. For those of you who live in the Seattle area, here are the top six tourist attractions according to About.com to get out there and explore!
1. An afternoon on Broadway in Capitol Hill Capitol Hill is the most densely and diversely populated neighborhood in Seattle. Broadway, the main thoroughfare, has the most active sidewalk scene, day or night, in the city. It is a bustling area that is home to the entire cross-section of Seattle’s population. A trip down Broadway will basically introduce you to everyone you share the city with. It also has many diverse shops and restaurants worth visiting. Spend an afternoon shopping on Broadway and grab an inexpensive lunch.
2. Starbucks at the Space Needle When is the last time you took the 41-second ride to the top of the Space Needle? Do you even remember how beautiful Mt. Rainier looks from there? If not, its time to pull out the $17 (yeah its still a little pricey) and make the trip up the Seattle icon. Once you're at the top, make sure to enjoy a local favorite Starbuck's cup-a-joe.
3. Washington State Ferries (WSF) WSF offers an inexpensive way to see Seattle from the water. You can catch the ferry to Bremerton at Pier 52 for $6.50 round-trip as a passenger. It will cost an extra $7.60 each way to take your car. The ride is 60 minutes each way with a 20-minute stop in Bremerton. It offers excellent views of Blake Island, the naval shipyard in Bremerton, and downtown Seattle from the water upon your return. Pack a lunch and enjoy a better time than you would have had on an expensive Elliott Bay Cruise. If you live in the northend, you could also try the Edmonds Ferry or the Mukilteo/Clinton Ferry. The rides are much shorter, but offer the same beautiful sights and fun places to explore on the other side.
4. Pike Place Public Market You know we had to add it to the list. Pike Place Market is still one of the most famous Seattle hot-spots and for good reason. Adults love it. Kids love it. Dogs love it. What is not to love. Pick up a local bouquet of fresh flowers. Watch fish flying through the air. Shop around the local craft stands. Sit and people watch. The Pike Place Market is rite of passage for any true Seattle native or adoptee and is truly the place that defines the city.
5. Pioneer Square and Underground Tour In 1853, Seattle was founded in the area now known as Pioneer Square. An area of about ten square blocks serves as both the center of Seattle's nightlife and history. You can see and learn a lot without covering much ground by taking a Walking Tour of Pioneer Square. Go on Bill Speidel's Underground Tour first. The 90-minute, $11 guided-tour will help you get your bearings and allow you to experience things in chronological order. It is the best activity in Seattle that nobody knows about.
6. Bumbershoot Bumbershoot is of course not a permanent fixture in Seattle, but it is certainly one of the main attractions during Labor Day weekend. Venture to Seattle Center, the 74-acre park located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest to find a festival that has it all. Bumbershoot, as the name implies, umbrellas a number of artists from different genres representing the best in music, film, comedy, theater, spoken word, dance, visual, performance and literary arts.
We were recently informed of this great idea for an upcoming event in Seattle by one of our clients, Foodz Catering. If you love to cook and think you have what it takes to join the chefs of Foodz Catering in a friendly cooking competition, join the "Iron Chef Acalia" competition. Just like the Food Network show, Iron Chef, a secret ingredient will be revealed and the two teams lead by Chef Shelby and Chef Sarah will decide what dishes to prepare on the spot.
After all the items have been created the food will be presented to the panel of judges including Seattle's Kathy Casey. Sign up online at www.foodzcatering.com or call (206) 297 - 9634 to learn more. Entrance fee is $ 75.00 Foodz Catering will also be on hand at the 2008 Northwest Event Show. Come check out their booth to see what is new for 2008 in catering like their newest outdoor concept: "The Satay Bar."
It is our pleasure to announce Tillicum Village’s participation in the Native American Honor Days 2008. Tillicum Village is offering a special sailing today, the 20th of August at 4:30 p.m. and the 24th of August at 11:30 a.m. to help celebrate this special occasion. Along with the traditional Tillicum Village salmon feast and dance ceremony, they are delighted to offer an Honor Circle Ceremony and the opportunity to sign a petition to make Native American Honor Day a national holiday. On these special days, there is an extraordinary rate offered of $59.00 per adult.
Tonight, there is a special performance by the TwoBirdz Singers drum group, and on the 24th Native American Flute Player Michelle Grace will be featured. In addition, there will be a special art exhibit for viewing on the island. Tillicum asks that you pass on this information to your friends, family, and coworkers; or anyone you know as we would love to have them celebrate this event with us. Please call ahead and make reservations as spots are filling up fast.
Contact Information:Tillicum Village & Tours Inc 2992 SW Avalon Way Seattle, WA 98198 (206) 933-8600, (800) 426-1205 Fax: (206) 933-9377 www.tillicumvillage.com
In three years the Boeing Classic has established itself as one of the top stops on the Tour for sponsor/spectator attendance, player experiences and charitable dollars raised, raising over $2.4 million for Greater Seattle charities including The Heart Institute at Virginia Mason Medical Center, The First Tee of Greater Seattle, and the Nutrition and Fitness for Life Program.
The Boeing Classic made history in it’s third year, with a 7 man play off on Sunday afternoon- naming Denis Watson the 2007 Champion. No other PGA Tour, Champions Tour or Nationwide Tour has had more than a 5 man play off.
The tour returns to the TPC Snoqualmie Ridge August 18 - 24, 2008, with the field vying for $1.6 million purse. Ticket Prices: Daily Grounds Pass: $20 Tournament Pass: $40 Weekly Pass: $60
Kimpton Hotels has given their "Pick Your Perks" program a makeover and have made the commitment to be environmentally and socially responsible with their newly implemented Great Meetings Great Causes Program. By booking a meeting at one of the Kimpton Hotel facilities, you will reap the benefits of eco-minded rewards that you and the planet will appreciate. Book your next meeting and pick TWO of the following:
A $100 donation to one of Kimpton Hotels' national corporate social responsibility partners (Trust for Public Land, Red Ribbon Campaign or Dress for Success) OR to the corporate social responsibility partner of your choice
A complimentary meeting upgrade with one of the following:
- Eco Signature Meeting - Full breakfast - Complimentary organic morning or afternoon break
One complimentary night at any eco-friendly Kimpton Hotel
A $50 gift certificate to Kimpton Style
A Greensender.com box to help anyone get started or continue incorporating green practices into their daily lives.
A $105 donation to environmental organizations to offset carbon use.
You name the best way you think we can work together to best serve the community and the planet. Our hotels and restaurants will do their very best to accommodate your request.
Click below for more information on one of Seattle's Kimpton Hotels.
After four years, the summer Olympics have returned in all their glory. Tonight marks the occasion of the Opening Ceremonies, and as usual, we are certain they won't disappoint. So what does this all mean for those watching with anticipation from our livings room? It's time to throw a party!
Gather your friends and invite them over for a day of rooting for the US of A. To complete your festivities, head to your local Cost Plus World Market store for global delicacies and decorations to complete your theme.
LeMay – America’s Car Museum® will hold the 31st Annual LeMay Museum Car Show & Auction, presented by AAA Washington, at the Marymount Academy and the LeMay grounds in Tacoma, WA on Saturday, August 30, 2008 from 9am to 5pm. Visitors will be able to see over 1,000 vintage, classic and specialty automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles from the LeMay Collection, plus hundreds of unique, local collector cars and other vehicles. In addition to the cars, there will be many interesting vendor displays, including our ever-popular "Flintmobile" photo car which makes for a memorable snapshot to take home! There will also be a classic car auction hosted on-site by Mathers Inc. Auctioneers. Entry donations are $10 for adults, $20 for a family of 4, $5 for children under 12, and $5 for active-duty military. Free parking will be available offsite with free shuttle bus transportation between the parking lots, the Marymount Academy and the LeMay grounds. For more information call (253) 536-2885.
Date & Time: August 30, 2008 9 am. to 5 p.m.
Location: LeMay's America's Car Museum 325 152nd St. E, Tacoma WA 98445 Contact Info: Phone: 253-779-8179 Contact Person: Trudy Cofchin Email: trudy@lemaymuseum.org Website: lemaymuseum.org
Calling all outdoor enthusiasts, TrailsFest 2008 is the event for you! This outdoor extravaganza features clinics on everything from wilderness first aid to hiking with kids to backcountry cooking. Take a guided hike, tie a fly on, or climb a rock wall.
Event Details: Saturday July 19, 9am - 4pm at Rattlesnake Lake near North Bend
TrailsFest is a hands-on event for all ages, providing families and other adventurers with a fun and safe environment to explore the outdoors. Been wanting to explore the North Cascades? Attend a clinic with Craig Romano, author of Day Hiking – North Cascades published by Mountaineers Books. Learn how to whip up a tasty backcountry meal in no time from the author of Freezer Bag Cooking. Want to be a responsible hiker with your dog? Check out the clinic on hiking with dogs and trail etiquette. Wanting to try backpacking? Go to Hilleberg the Tentmaker’s clinic on smart packing and learn how to take less, still be comfortable and safe, and have lots more fun!
Still undecided as to where you will spend the 4th of July. See what's happening in your neighborhood.
SEATTLE
WaMu Family 4th at Lake Union What: Daytime and evening activities include a spectacular fireworks show Location: Gas Works Park - 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle Cost: Free Website: familyfourth.org Time: Noon - 11 p.m.
Fourth of Jul-Ivar's What: Fireworks show Location: Elliott Bay - Myrtle Edwards Park, 3130 Alaskan Way W., Seattle Cost: Free Website: ivars.net Time: 10 p.m.
Museum of Flight's 27 Flags Show What: Aircraft fly-ins, children's activities, Wings of Freedom Bomber exhibit and picnic. When: July 1-5 Location: Museum of Flight, 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Seattle Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $7.50-$13 Website: www.museumofflight.org
Fourth of July bash What: Picnic buffet, dancing, karaoke, games, indoor and outdoor view of the Lake Union fireworks Time: 6:30 pm Location: Swedish Cultural Center - 1920 Dexter Ave. N., Seattle Cost: $33 adults, $12 ages 9 & younger RSVP: 206-523-9570
EASTSIDE
Bellevue Family 4th What: Family fun and fireworks Time: 10 pm for fireworks Location: Bellevue Downtown Park, 10201 N.E. Fourth St., Bellevue Cost: Free Parking: Free parking at Bellevue Square after 6 pm Website: www.bellevuedowntown.com
Kirkland 4th of July Festivities What: Fireworks Location: Juanita Marina Beach Park - 25 Lake Shore Plaza, Kirkland Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.ci.kirkland.wa.us
Fourth on the Plateau What: Fireworks Show Location: Sammamish Commons Park, 801 228th Ave. S.E., Sammamish Time: 10:15 p.m. Website: www.ci.sammamish.wa.us/4thjuly.aspx Carnation Celebration What: Fireworks Show Location: Tolt-MacDonald Park - Carnation Time: Dusk Website: www.carnation4th.org/
SOUTHEND
Fireworks Over Des Moines What: Fireworks Display Location: Des Moines Marina, 22307 Dock St., Des Moines Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.desmoineswa.gov
4th of July in Renton What: Fireworks display over Lake Washington Location: Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, 1201 Lake Washington Blvd., Renton Time: 10 p.m. Website: rentonwa.gov
Fourth of July Splash What: Fireworks display accompanied by Rainier Symphony Location: Lake Meridian Park, 14800 S.E. 272nd St., Kent Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.ci.kent.wa.us/arts
Red, White and Blues Festival What: Old-fashioned games, soccer, flag football, volleyball, preschoolers' play area, entertainment on two stages, food vendors, dance, fireworks display Location: Celebration Park, 1095 S. 324th St., Federal Way Time: 6-10:30 p.m. Website: www.cityoffederalway.com
Tacoma Freedom Fair and Air Show What: Outdoor market, international food fair, Lost Boys Pirate Cove children's activities, Camp Patriot to honor community heroes, car show, entertainment, fireworks display Location: Waterfront Park, Tacoma Time: 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Website: www.freedomfair.com
NORTHEND Family 4th of July What: Music, children's activities, food vendors, fireworks show at dusk Time: 7 - 10:30 p.m. Location: Evergreen Playfields, 22400 56th Ave. W., Mountlake Terrace Website: mltrec.com An Edmonds Kind of Fourth What: Fireworks show Location: Edmonds Civic Stadium and Playfield, Sixth Avenue North and Bell Street, Edmonds Time: 10 p.m. Website: www.edmondswa.com
Fourth of July Fireworks What: Parade with dancers, drill teams and musicians who represent world cultures; all-day festival with food, children's activities and music, fireworks show over Port Gardner Bay Time: 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Location: Legion Memorial Park, 145 Alverson Blvd. at Marine View Drive, Everett Website: www.everettwa.org
We'd like to thank PartyBluPrints.com for the scoop they sent us on a free party planning manual for the 4th of July. Party Blue Prints has put together a 17-page "how-to" to guide you through the steps of planning the ultimate 4th of July picnic. From invitation ideas to recipes, the manual has it all.
Here is a sample of what you'll find inside...
Make this picnic easy as A, B, C! Keep Your Guests Comfortable & Clean:
a. Banish the bugs – 1 hour before guests arrive, light bug bomb and citronella candles. Set out individual bug spray wipes and/or spray for guests' convenient use.
b. It's a picnic, so while you're “roughing” it, offer your guests the opportunity to “wash up” with wipes and/or hand sanitizer – a must have at a picnic!
c. Give your guests a place to kick back: Provide plenty of clean and comfortable seating (chairs, blankets, benches, etc.)
Keep Waste to a Minimum:
a. Mark your beverages. Use ClinQ™s , these clever peel off stickers adhere your to drink (whether it's a glass, bottle, disposable cup or plastic bottle). Each has a different symbol so you can identify your drink from the rest. This avoids waste as guests inevitably forget where they set their drink – all they have to do is remember their symbol.
b. Put out a recycling bin for empties.
c. Use renewable dinnerware or acrylic dishware and cloth napkins (for fun you can purchase flag bandannas and use them as napkins).
Keep it Cool & Wet:
a. Ice, Ice and more Ice: There's nothing worse than lukewarm or hot beverages on a hot day. Make sure you have more than enough ice to continually replenish the supply. General rule of thumb is 2 lbs. of ice per person.
b. Hydrate your guests: Have plenty of non alcoholic beverages on hand - make sure to consider all your guests: adults, children, elderly.
c. If your yard offers no shade, create some with a few umbrellas. You can also purchase a fan or two that mists while it cools – now that's cool!
We love trivia. Here are some fun facts gathered from Pier 1 Imports about the 4th of July
Over 74 million families will barbecue on this day. Will your family be one of them? Who wears the apron in YOUR family?
Over 150 million hot dogs will be eaten on the Fourth. That’s one hot dog for every two Americans. Please make mine with mustard and onions.
The most popular sides at the 4th of July BBQ? Potato salad and baked beans.
Only two people signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, John Hancock and Charles Thomson. Most of the rest signed on August 2, but the last signature wasn't added until 5 years later.
John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died within hours of each other on July 4, 1826.
The only American president born on the 4th of July was Calvin Coolidge (b. 1872).
The Liberty Bell weighs 2000 pounds and cost $225 to make.
In 1959, the very first Pepsi 400 race was held. This event is hosted by NASCAR every 4th of July or the Saturday of 4th of July weekend
In 1916, four immigrants are said to have been arguing who among them was most patriotic on this 4th of July. The four decided to settle the dispute with a hot dog eating contest, thus sparking the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest held annually on the 4th in Coney Island.
In 1870, Congress made July 4th a national, but unpaid, holiday for all federal employees.
America has its own places of patriotic pride, as shown by the multitude of places within the United States with patriotic names. For example, at least thirty cities include "liberty" in their names, such as Liberty, MO and Iowa's Libertyville, North Liberty, West Liberty and New Liberty. The United States also is home to thirty-two "Eagles," eleven "Independences," five "Freedoms," and even a "Patriot" (residing in Indiana).
Music plays such a huge role when it comes to planning any get together. Even when it's lightly playing the background, choosing festive songs to match your party theme is a must. And now with music programs like iTunes, you can make your own custom mixes with just the click of a mouse.
Here are some great 4th of July tunes to set tone for your big bash...
Born in the U.S.A. – Bruce Springsteen
1812 Overture - Tchaikovsky
Proud to be an American – Lee Greenwood
America – Neil Diamond
America the Beautiful – Ray Charles version
Ballad of the Green Berets – Barry North
Color Me Red, White and Blue – Dolly Parton
God Bless America – Kate Smith or Celine Dion (our favorite Canadian!)
Living in America – James Brown
My Baby is American Made – Oakridge Boys
Peaceful World – John Mellencamp
Some Gave All – Billy Ray Cyrus
Star Spangled Banner – Jimmy Hendrix, Whitney Houston and a host of others
This Ain’t No Rag – It’s a Flag – Charlie Daniels Band
This Land is Your Land – Bob Dylan and Joan Baez, Peter, Paul and Mary
Can you believe the 4th of July is only a few weeks away? There is not time like the present to start gathering ideas and making plans for America's favorite holiday. Here are a few simple tips to get your creativity and patriotism flowing...
It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t got a Theme! The best part about the 4th of July is that the color scheme and entertainment are already in place. You know you'll be decorating with red, white and blue, and of course you'll be watching fireworks, so a lot of the pressure of planning the details are relieved. All you have to do is get the decorations ready and plan the ultimate summer menu. When it comes to the 4th, you can't go overboard, so we say bring out the stripes and stars and go flag and streamer crazy.
Plan the Menu Did you know that on the 4th of July, 74 million families will barbecue their meal? You will probably contribute to that number so planning the ultimate BBQ meal is key. Prepare one or two meat offerings like southern-style sliced brisket, slabs of meaty baby back ribs or smoky-sweet chicken. Delicious sides like potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans and of course, corn-on-the-cob are traditional favorites. We also suggest making red and blue tinted cocktails for the adults and non-alcoholic kool-aid drinks for the kids. Head over to the Food Network and search under 4th of July for hundreds of recipes that you can easily prepare for groups large and small.
Take a Picnic to the Park These days many people live in townhouses and condos so throwing a backyard bbq is out of the question. But just because you don't have a backyard, doesn't mean you should spend the day indoors. Head outside and pack up a blanket, food, and decorations and head to a local park. Start the partying early in the day and organize a group softball, volleyball, or bocce ball game and then stay for the public fireworks. It will be a lot easier to find parking if you head out early.
Go Coastal with a Beach Potluck Fresh air, cool water and the sand in your toes! Call your friends, organize a potluck menu and gather together your beach gear. Everyone should bring their favorite dish along with their bathing suits, towels, blankets, frisbees, beach balls and – of course - the sunscreen. Grill hotdogs and burgers or have a traditional clambake! Finger foods work best here – like chips and fresh fruits as well as canned sodas and beer. Build a campfire (if your beach allows them) and roast marshmallows or make s’mores for a fun dessert treat. Don’t forget a trash bag! You definitely want to leave the beach as clean as you found it! If you live in Seattle, head to Alki Beach. For those willing to travel, head to Lake Chelan in Central Washington. Our pick...Wapato Point.
The 4th of July is just around the corner, and since the weather has been less than stellar as of late, now is a great time to dive into your movie vault and pick out some films that truly capture the heart of the American spirit. You'll be singing the "Star Spangled Banner" in no time at all. Here's what's on our list right now...
The Patriot: Starring Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger. Movie Tagline: Before they were soldiers, they were family. Before they were legends, they were heros. Before there was a nation, there was a fight for freedom. Why we love it: Oh the drama! If you like war pictures, The Patriot is one of those films that leaves a huge impression on your heart. Combine the war scenes with the tear jerking portrayal of a father-son relationship and even grown men will be crying with this one.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington: Starring Jimmy Stewart & Jean Arthur Movie Tagline: Romance, drama, laughter and heartbreak ... created out of the very heart and soil of America. Why we love it: Is there anything more American than Jimmy Stewart? Enough said.
Yankee Doodle Dandy: Starring James Cagney Movie Tagline: A musical portrait of composer/singer/dancer George M. Cohan. From his early days as a child-star in his family's vaudeville show up to the time of his comeback at which he received a medal from the president for his special contributions to the US, this is the life-story of George M. Cohan, who produced, directed, wrote and starred in his own musical shows for which he composed his famous songs. Why we love it: Don't worry, this movie has nothing to do with the New York Yankees. An old-fashioned musical with James Cagney. It’s all red-white and true blue through and through!
Saving Private Ryan: Starring Tom Hanks Movie Tagline: In the Last Great Invasion of the Last Great War, The Greatest Danger for Eight Men was Saving... One. Why we love it: Yes, the first 30-minutes are very hard to watch and yes, you'll probably cry the entire movie. But, this story of a brave band of WWII soldiers and their mission to save one young man is a must-watch, must-cheer, must remember film. A heartbreakingly honest tribute to The Greatest Generation.
Independence Day: Starring Will Smith, Harry Connick Jr. and some pain in the you-know-what aliens. Movie Tagline: On July 2nd, they arrive. On July 3rd, they strike. On July 4th, we fight back. Why we love it: There’s no turning on your heart strings here, just some good, old-fashioned alien whopping – on the Fourth of July, of course!
1776 Movie Tagline: In the days leading up to July 4, 1776, Continental Congressmen John Adams and Benjamin Franklin coerce Thomas Jefferson into writing the Declaration of Independence as a delaying tactic as they try to persuade the American colonies to support a resolution on independence. As George Washington sends depressing messages describing one military disaster after another, the businessmen, landowners and slave holders in Congress all stand in the way of the Declaration, and a single "nay" vote will forever end the question of independence. Large portions of spoken and sung dialog are taken directly from the letters and memoirs of the actual participants. Why we love it: Yes, it’s a musical. But it’s also a great way to learn about the birth of our nation. And you’ll be humming the tunes when it’s over.
Rocky I, II, III, IV: Starring Sly Stone Movie Tagline: His whole life was a million-to-one shot. Why we love it: It's all about the American dream as we watch a fighter from the streets of Philadelphia achieve his dreams. We get pumped just thinking about it.
Pride of the Yankees: Starring Gary Cooper as Lou Gehrig Movie Tagline: It's the Great American Story! Why we love it: You can't celebrate American movies without highlighting the greatest baseball film of all time. Sorry this one happens to be about a "New York Yankee," but more importantly about a man with the true American spirit. Lou Gehrig ended his career on July 4, 1939 with his now famous speech. This film celebrates good-old American values without a whole lot of flag waving. A great watch.
Did we miss your favorite patriotic film? Let us know!
Go green, that is, hit the greens this Father's Day. We've found some great samples of golf inspired party decorations suitable for any father, grandfather, uncle, brother or significant person in your life. Golf is a great theme for any Father's Day because most anyone can play. Who cares if you are not Tiger Woods! Who is? Just get out there, and enjoy an activity everyone can try. And if playing an entire 18 holes isn't your style, consider renting portable miniature courses from Golf-To-Go, featured in further detail on banquetevent.com. But if the real thing is more your speed, read about Oki Golf's courses featured at banquetevent.com as well. As a side note, if you are planning an upcoming golf tournament this summer, read our how-to on how to put together a successful event.
Top Row: Floral arrangements by Aria Style Bottom Left: Golf luggage tag favor from Beau-Coup Bottom Right: Personalized Golf Balls from Beau-Coup
Top Left: Golf cocktail napkins from Plum Party Top Right: Rent portable greens from Golf-To-Go Bottom Left: Golf invitation from Doriann's Bottom Right: Golf Ball Truffles from Plum Party
There are thousands of Father's Day cards to choose from each year. Finding the card that says exactly how you feel can be a daunting task. So this Father's Day, give a card that also gives back.
Check out these cards from Hallmark in their (PRODUCT) RED™ line. These cards literally help eliminate AIDS in Africa. There's no extra cost or special effort from you. The contributions to Global Fund comes right out of Hallmark's profits. Make a difference. Choose Hallmark (PRODUCT) RED™ and see how far a card can go.
Here are just a few samples of the Father's Day cards available at your local Hallmark right now.
THESE CARDS ARE MADE WITH RECYCLED PAPER. 20% recycled fiber.
Businesses and corporations now have a simple way to contribute to a greener planet through a unique philanthropy opportunity. 1% For The Planet, a non-profit organization, acts as a conduit for action by working with companies willing to donate just 1% of their profits to various causes created to preserving the planet. In return, this growing alliance of companies is given the opportunity not only to see their self-worth rise, but their net worth climb as well.
One Percent for the Planet has also teamed up with Jack Johnson on his 2008 World Tour and All At Once, a new social action network connecting nonprofits with people who want to become active in their local and world community. All At Once comes to life online at www.AllAtOnce.org and at every Jack Johnson concert in the Village Green, a collection of interactive booths where you can get educated, get inspired, and connect face-to-face with us and other local, national, and international non-profits.
Everyone loves a good Cinco de Mayo party. Cinco de Mayo is all about color, and the brighter and more bold, the better. We've gone on the hunt to find the perfect solutions to your Cinco de Mayo event decor. Check out our super finds.
Accent your Cinco de Mayo table decor with colorful lanterns and candles. The below samples are great because they are battery operated so you don't have to worry about finding an outlet. These colorful and affordable lanterns can go just about anywhere.
Every Cinco de Mayo party must have authentic and delicious regional foods and beverages. Be sure to set your table with colorful dining, serving and bar pieces to create the ambiance of the festive event.
Choose colorful textiles in tablecloths, runners, napkins and placemats and don't worry about matching. Just pick bold colors and the richness of the patterns and tones will coordinate perfectly with each other.
Finalize your table design with a colorful umbrella. Even if you have to hold your party indoors, the brightly colored umbrella will be enough to make your guests fantasize about the warm summer sun.
April 26 , 2008 - BioLyle's Biodiesel Workshops (Saturday), 10 AM - 3 PM. South Seattle Community College Class Fee: $59 Register by calling 206-764-5339 For more information visit http://biolyle.com/workshops/index.html Learn to make your own fuel from used restaurant oil! Discover the chemistry and tricks of making quality biodiesel, as well as experimenting with different vegetable oils, catalysts, and pH indicators. Various reactor designs will be presented, with an emphasis on the appleseed reactor (made from an electric water heater) which will be operated in class. Other topics include myths and cacts about biodiesel; quality control, washing, cold weather issues, local availabilty and what's going on nationally and locally.
April 26, 2008 - Crooked Trails Annual Fundraiser Museum of History & Industry, Seattle 7 PM Crooked Trails, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting culturally and environmentally responsible travel, will host its annual fundraiser on Saturday, April 26, 2008, at 7 p.m. at the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) in Seattle. The celebration will feature world-fusion appetizers, Chilean wine by PengWine, northwest microbrews, global rhythms and both live and silent auctions.
The theme of this year’s event is “Share Yourself: The World Is Waiting to Meet You” – a reflection of Crooked Trails’ belief that by sharing ourselves we are enriched and inspired. Crooked Trails believes that everyone on the planet has something to share, whether it be time, knowledge, skills, energy, or enthusiasm. Through this sharing we make new connections that help us learn, grow, and change. Crooked Trails’ explores the ways in which we can share ourselves with the world and celebrates the endless possibilities this sharing can hold.
Past Crooked Trails fundraisers have been extremely popular, and a sell-out crowd of 200 guests is expected. All are welcome to join the festivities in order to learn about and support Crooked Trails’ partnerships with communities around the world. Pre-registration is required through the Crooked Trails website, http://www.crookedtrails.com/. The cost of the event is $50 per person.
More About Crooked Trails Crooked Trails is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve cultural, ecological, and economic conditions around the world by changing the way people travel. Crooked Trails believes that travel should happen with host communities, not to them. If done properly, and with consent and management from the communities involved, tourism can bring much-needed community development as well as cultural sharing. Crooked Trails programs enrich the lives of both participants and the communities they visit. In addition to tourism activities, every Crooked Trails program includes a community service component. Participants may work on building a school in Kenya with a Maasai warrior, helping to make a documentary film in Peru with a Quechua shaman, digging a community well in the Himalayas with a Nepali farmer, or rebuilding a Thai coastal community destroyed by the tsunami. Crooked Trails also works to promote responsible travel through educational outreach programs in the Seattle area. Co-founders Christine Mackay and Tammy Leland are popular speakers and consultants on responsible travel and community-based tourism.
A week from today, marks Earth Day. And what better time to start making an impact to preserve the world we live in than on this national day of awareness? Need some ideas on how you can do your part to share in the cause? Take our advice and do something to make a difference.
1. Send an Earth Day E-Card: Remind others that Earth Day is coming up and share a special note on how they can join you in doing something to preserve the Earth.
2. Plant a Tree: Contribute to the planet by donating one dollar to assist in the planting of 1 billion trees in the Atlantic Forest in Brazil. Learn more at PlantaBillion.org.
3. Visit a Nature Preserve:Sometimes the best way to get motivated is to see conservation efforts first hand. Visit a local nature preserve near you. If you live in Washington, click here for locations on preserves in your area. Any time of year, you can visit one of these great places, enjoy its natural wonders, and know that your investment in the Conservancy is working to protect it for generations to come.
5. Take part in Video Conferencing: Many businesses like to conduct face-to-face interaction time with their clients. But that usually means driving across town to go meet them. Install free video conferencing tools, such as skype, to your computer and encourage your clients to do the same. Now you can communicate face-to-face, but reduce pollution by staying out of your car.
The best of the best in the Northwest event industry gathered on March 19 at the Hotel 1000, for a showcase of regional talent in tabletop designs presented by ISES-Seattle and the Washington Branch of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC). The latest trends in themes, use of colors and design styles in original tablescapes were on display to fit any special occasion. In addition to being able to view each tabletop in detail, guests had the opportunity to dine at one of the tables during the evening. The designers each shared information about their designs and their vendors who participated in supplying various elements for the tablescapes.
The above photos from the event come courtesy of Camera Renter. Wondering about the services available through Camera Renter? Before your next special event, they deliver a set of easy-to-use digital cameras. You give the cameras to your guests because who better to capture all of the memories from your event then the people who will make those memories? After your event, you, your family, and your friends view, download, print, and share all of the once-in-a-lifetime memories—for free—from the Personalized Memory Sharing Website they create for you. Pretty great idea, no?
Interested in more information about the designers who participated and wondering how you can hire them for your next event? Contact ISES president, Geri Windecker of Lucky Lady directly.
Mark your calendar for the next ISES meeting: April 16 - featuring special guest, Maria Marsala from Elevating Your Business.
The Northwest Event Show was designed for event planners, by event planners. This once a year event, blends entertainment, food, decor and networking to create an incredible and interactive display of innovation and design.
This year marks the 13th Anniversary of the Northwest Event Show. This year's theme for the show is GLOBALLY GETTING GREEN. In today's highly interactive and fast paced world, nuances in both design and interaction are infused in the event planning world to utilize eco-friendly tools in the planning of incredible events. Come to the Northwest Event Show to gain insight into the ever-evolving world of event planning. The Northwest Event Show is always one step ahead of the curve in presenting the latest trends and newest services available to you. But don't take our word for it, come and see for yourself.
Show Details: Date: September 23, 2008 Location: Washington State Convention & Trade Center Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Free for meeting & event planners
Noetix sales people know how to have a good time. During their latest sales meeting, the group got together at several Seattle locations for conferences and dining over the period of a jam-packed four days.
The Who, What & Where
The conference meetings and day time meals were held at the W Hotel – Seattle. For the meeting rooms Noetix event planner, Charlene Seim rented a back drop for each room. The largest fabulous backdrop was 20’ X 40' and filled one whole wall. Sunday night the team had a reception at Kell’s Irish Pub where they enjoyed a private area upstairs above the main bar. Monday was the Masquerade Ball at The Palace Ballroom with catering by Tom Douglas. Various entertainment providers were also on-site as an added bonus including, Lou Medina (caricatures) and Jacqueline Brulotte (Palm Reading, Henna Tattoos, Face Painting). Fabulous, yet very inexpensive feather masks were purchased for the event from Accessory Wholesale Inc. Tuesday the sales team experienced a very nice dinner at the Pink Door, while the consultants had a private area at the Wild Ginger. Wednesday the consultants concluded the week with dinner at Troiani’s Ristorante Italiano.
Special thanks to Susan Welton (photographer of above images) and Charlene Seim and Mark Verner for sharing their event with us.
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!
