Let Your Voice Be Heard

It's that time again all where we all can have a chance at choosing the next person that will sit in the chair in the Oval Office, it we choose to do so.

This is a hard time for us right now with all that is going on there seems as if there is no end to rise and fall of the economy. One thing that should remain the same is our faith that things will get better, in spite of. Businesses and households across the entire globe are affected. There is none that has gone unscathed. On some level or another we have all felt the effects of our countries' economical status.

When the new Commander in Chief takes his position in office we may not see the effects of change right away, but it will come eventually. No matter who your choice of candidate is, utilize your right to make a difference in this historical election. If you are having some difficulty with choice because of the many challenging variables, take it from an indifferent approach. Meaning, let the deciding factor be based on the choices you stand for and what each candidate represents.Does a particular Candidate campaign line up with your views, or not. Weigh it in. When all else fails, pray.

I can't express the gravity of this election and what it will mean for our economy, our people, and our nation as a whole. So utilize your right to vote in this presidential election and let your voice be heard.

You are Cordially Invited to -

We are in our new space, and loving it.

For the entire month of November we are celebrating our Grand Opening. The salon hours where you can meet me, learn useful tips through a brief Q & A session, as well as see our new space will be on:

Saturdays from 12 noon to 6:00 PM
Sundays from 12 noon to 2:00 PM

Our Location:

In the Loft of Party Galore
1516 Castle Hill Avenue
Between Starling & Manning Aves.
Bronx, NY

Come on by to see what we're about. Increase your chances of walking away with a giveaway from one of the three categories that we will raffle off at the close of the month.

Give-a-ways are:

1. Day of Services Wedding Coordination Package
2. 25 Custom Invitations
3. Up to 1 Dozen of custom Party Favors

However, at those times will will not be able to offer appointments but would love to schedule a time more dedicated and personalized for your complimentary 1 hour consultation. I am excited about this event and look forward to meeting you and hearing all about your dreams for your Big Day.

Light Refreshments will be served.

How Time Flies ...

Yesterday, my family and I celebrated my son Ryan's 8th birthday. It just seemed like the other day, I was changing his diapers. My little boy is growing into a little boy man. I can't believe it, yet I see it everyday.

When I decided to pursue my "niche" as a business, I have not been able to do the things that I usually do. For instance, Rye-Rye has had a party every year up until the age of three. The works. Since then, the celebrations have been far, few and low keyed, of small intimate gatherings amongst family and friends. And I have been feeling somewhat guilty about that.

On the interim, my son is a "Huge" High School Musical fan and last night we surprised him by taking him to see "HSM3". He had a Blast! I enjoyed it too, but so much more because he did. It was so funny the week leading up to that night because although it was intended to be a surprise, everyone pretentiously, unknowingly kept spilling the beans. To my surprise, it was the grown ups, mostly. His cousins however, were on point with keeping the grown ups in check about it. Go figure. You'd think it would have been the other way around.

The movie, Great. The time spent with my family, Better. The expression on my son's face when we told him the surprise and wished him a Happy Birthday in front of the theatre, Priceless. He danced around, hugged me, and gave me a big thanks. It literally happened in that order. Although he didn't have a party, he had a great time with his cousins and was the center of their attention. It's moments like these, that I wish can last a little longer. I know they can't but the memories of them, I'll treasure, Forever.

My little boy is growing up to be a young little man, through and by the Grace of God.



Happy Birthday Baby. I Love you always!

Technical Difficulties

Pardon our appearance. I am currently in the process of jazzing up this blog, but in the same instance I seem to have lost most all of my photos and other cool gadgets. Bare with me as I learn this process all over again. That's why we should stick to what we know best. Wouldn't you say? Hmmm?

Should be up and running real soon.

Moments Like These ...

I received a text message Wednesday evening from my very dear and wonderful friend since the dawning of age, with the news that she was on her way to the hospital. Her contractions were 10 minutes apart. I had to say, I was a little disappointed for 2 reasons:


1. I was not going to be able go to the hospital as I did for baby #1. They don't allow children to enter into certain areas. Of course, I am mother to a very special and loverable 7 year old boy, who is jointed at my hip. No baby sitter and it was school night.

2. I lost the pot. We took a poll at her Baby Shower held nearly two weeks ago, of each guest and when they thought she would actually deliver. Funny thing. Her due date was the 22. I said she was going to deliver on the 24Th (which so happens to be my sons birthdate). Didn't happen. No way. That baby wanted OUT!!


I am pleased to announce the arrival of:

Jaiden Alexander Thomas

Born: Thursday, October 16, 2008 @ 1:05 AM

Weighing in @ 7 pounds 7 ounces (Perfect!)

When I spoke to Monique the very next day, she sound exhausted and relieved that she finally had her body back. She said that she had just finished feeding Jaiden but that he was up and checking things out a mile a minute. She wanted him to go to sleep.

For those of you who have been asking if I planned events other than weddings. Yes, I do! (No pun intended there) I had the absolute honor of planning Baby Shower #2, with the help of the family. In some of the photos you will see things like a Baby Book ( Guest Book, Dream Book, or Wish Book), chocolate lollipops, and the Invitation for the baby shower. All which were created by Dreams & Keepsakes. Also the cake, with the family photo on it was a very endearing touch(way to go Marion). Overall we had a blast!

Although weddings are our passion & speciality, we ultimately have a passion for planning all events. Our motto: "Where Planning is Everything"

Congratulations to James, Monique, and James Jr.

Welcome Baby Jaiden Alexander!

Bridal Show Bliss

Greetings All,

I apologize for not getting these pics to you sooner. I had a few events back to back, and was under the weather, following.

My experience at Boscos' show was a good one. I was able to meet with Brides, Grooms, and their families. I also networked with some great vendors as well. The flow of the event went rather smoothly, but others that participated in the show expected a greater turn out. My take is that with all that is happening with the economy today, many are not spending, and are throwing more caution to the dollar. It's understandable. But more importantly are ones dreams for their Big day.

So how does one have the wedding of their dreams without breaking the bank?

It's not impossible, but realistically weddings do come with a price tag. However, it's how you represent your dollar throughout your event that can reflect your savings $$$. More importantly, your style. For instance, use silk floral arrangements instead of real ones. Note: The centerpiece in the opening photo is one of silk florals made by a division of my company called Dreams & Keepsakes. You can create an air of illusion and still have the flowers you had envisioned for you big day, only at a fraction of the cost of having real flowers.




Another tip, if you are a savvy bride on a budget and opt to have real flowers, try incorporating two large arrangements and have them at a central location. For instance, at your ceremony venue, only later to be moved to your reception venue. For your centerpieces, try 3 different size candles at the center of your table, then garnish with the same type of floral petals and Voila!


No matter what you do, your wedding will have some type of price tag. Give careful thought and consideration to the little details that you can incorporate throughout your day to make it more memorable and special. It could be something as simple as a monogram, a certain flower, or even the ribbon that you choose. I love ribbon Can't you tell?


Until then, I'll leave you with a few more photos from the bridal show.

I just love weddings! Don't you?

Happy Planning.

Lisa

Essence of a Photographer - Part 2

This is a follow up from a previous post this past spring, on what to look for when selecting a photographer for your milestone event. It is so important that you develop some type of relationship beforehand. So I would suggest scheduling pre-sessions (engagement, photo shoot) so that way you can get to know him/her and the camera as well. For those of you who are not as photogenic as others tend to be, I recommend doing this. You will not only be glad that you did it, but you'll look and feel comfortable in front of the camera the day of. It will make a world of a difference!

So in my quest to locate and connect with lifestyle photographers who go above and beyond their calling. Those who allow their gifts to make room for them. I have found far and few whose work have been refreshing, inspiring, and captivating. This photographer's attention to detail is any planners dream come true. His ability to capture a moment, forever in time, is truly remarkable.

I would like to introduce some and present to others, my friend and colleague, Atlanta based Ross Oscar Knight. Ross is one of the most sought after lifestyle photographers and he is well known for his shots all over the globe. A humanitarian, and a leader who also gives back to his community.

I would like to share some (a few of my favorites) of his work with you..






"...the key is to Love what you see." -Knight






If capturing memories are one of your top goals for your special day, don't settle. I can't expressed the importance of thoroughly researching the person you consider to be at the heart of your special day. A seasoned wedding photographer will know what shots work best traditional and non traditional in sealing those moments in time forever.

Just know that anyone can take a picture, but only one can tell your story.

Happy Planning!

Lisa