Bling Bling!

ok, so I've taken some time off of blogging, but I have had some recent motivation to start being inspired to write about what I love. For all of you who know me, you know that I love SPARKLE, glitz, anything that is SHOWY, and this applies to anything that is involved with events that I plan.
I am also a big "do it yourselfer" and saving MONEY! with a little time and effort, anyone can create an unbelieveable focal point or centerpiece for a wedding, shower, etc. My favorites are ones that sparkle. Here is one of my favorites!

First gather some branches, or simply go to a craft store and buy them. Decide what color crystals you want, they come in so many different colors, shapes, sizes, etc.
Put your branches in a vase, and start hanging your crystal garland to make a "crystal garland tree", and for effect, put some candles around it to make them really sparkle!
It's actually quite easy for you sparkle lovers!



Hmm, what else can we see that can STAND out with sparkle?
How about a cake that is all blinged out..take a look at this chandelier Cake. I'd leave this one to the pro's!

I just had to choose K, kindof personal:)I personally love BLING, and for those of you who want to truly sparkle on your wedding day, feel free to click on the links. They carry EVERYTHING bling to do it yourself projects ffor your wedding or any occasion. You can also order rhinestones yourself to add to your dress. What is a wedding dress without some sparkle?

PLATINUM PRODUCTIONS aka, Events BY PLATINUM: I love melting things..what a good idea! Non flora...

PLATINUM PRODUCTIONS aka, Events BY PLATINUM: I love melting things..what a good idea! Non flora...: "let's say you don't have a big budget for floral, here are some cool ideas, and once again, the first one is for a friend, and a music lover..."

I love melting things..what a good idea! Non floral centerpieces...

let's say you don't have a big budget for floral, here are some cool ideas, and once again, the first one is for a friend, and a music lover...melted vinyl, how cool is THAT for a centerpiece?

You can melt them into various shapes and sizes, hang them, or mold into a bowl on your tables as centerpieces.
Another non floral is rocks, sticks, or leaves in vases. Perfect for a fall wedding is to take a vase, put dried leaves in water, with a floating candle on top.

I love this for FALL!

Bouquets and 45's?

Ok, I so thought of my friend who loves records, you know who you are! This is a perfect bouquet for a music lover, or someone from that loves the 80's! How cool is this?

I love seeing a twist to match a person's character & something personal to the bride and groom. They were big 80's fans, and we're brought together by it. I love this for a person who is a "record" fan, or someone who just loves Music!

Globetrotting Bride: Top 100 Wedding Blogs and Twitters

Globetrotting Bride: Top 100 Wedding Blogs and Twitters

WHY should teens have all the fun?

DO you remember high school? do you rememember your Prom? well if it was one you don't want to remember and want a DO OVER, come to our "Adult Prom" scheduled to be in August(19th or 20th) in Downtown Kalamazoo! Wear your best dress, and come to dance the night away with a DJ, Food, and Drinks(this time it's ok to spike the punch)!
We will also have a Prom Queen and King, by nomination, so bring a big group of people. Location to be announced next week, ticket prices to include food, dancing, and favors! There will be a photographer, and close to hotels. Please inquire for more details to Kristin@eventsbyplatinum.com

SURVEY SAYS.......please read and respond!

Ok, so I have a dilemma. I have two different events, and two different Venues vying for these events. I have to pick which one to plan first and make a decision on which venue gets the gig!I am looking for some comments and feedback so if you could help, we can ANSWER. For the "Adult Prom", would you rather have it in a nightclub, with Dancing, and decorations, drinks and within walking distance to a hotel?
or do you think it would be better in a Country Club atmosphere, or Hotel ballroom?

The other is a BLACK LIGHT BODY PAINT PARTY. THERE WILL BE glow in the dark paints, with a black light, some signature glow in the dark drinks, and drink specials, OR, a JAMES BOND BASH, girls in GOLD, martini specials, and some other surprises, like a martini LUGE, and cage dancing. So, which one sounds MORE awesome to do first?

The Truth about Tents

Many Brides and Grooms think that a tent just isn't sophisticated, would rather have a Grand Ballroom, or a Country Club, but truth is, Tent's are the most versatile. Basically a tent is a plain white canvas, and with proper lighting, and proper decor, you can create a fantasy world of your own. Unlike other premade venues, you can change the flooring too. Whether it be all black and white checkered, grass or plain white, the floor can be chosen with whatever you like.
For any occasion, I think a tent is a great option.

POPCORN AND PEACOCKS!

The new wedding trend, incorporating Peacock flowers into centerpieces, decor and Bouquets. I personally love it! the colors are beautiful and you can pretty much use just about any color with it. I have seen these feathers with yellow and blue, pinks, purples...the choices are endless!

Also, one of the new trends at weddings is a popcorn "bar". A perfect snack for your guests! you can take and do it yourself as well. Get some apothecary jars of different shapes and sizes, scoops, bags, and labels, different types of popcorn, and voila, you've got a great goodie table of different popcorns.
Imagine the choices, chocolate covered popcorn, cheddar, ranch, just get creative and come up with your own. Popcorn anyone? This would go great at any party or event, especially a movie theater themed event or wedding.
Take a look!

Do you have Swag?

ok, I'm not talking in dance terminology, but for your events, SWAGS make so much difference by presenting COLOR, divide the room up, gives you dimension as well. Take a look at this photo, and if your wedding or event can hang some swags, why not use some? imagine this room without Swag!!!

I think this room is gorgeous, and without the use of multi color swags, (which you can buy fabric just about anywhere), and of course, we can't forget the great use of lighting, that allowed the room to "come to life"!
As an event planner, I would always recommend using lighting, it creates mood, COLOR, and more importanty creates an ambience for your guests to enjoy. When anyone goes to a party, wedding reception, they want to feel festive. Why not spend a little time in creating that perfect "mood" by using Lighting and Swags!

Adult Prom?????

Who went to Prom and actually had the "best night of their life"? I would bet most would say it was not..and in fact, some people would say they skipped it all together.
I know for me it came up very short, and boy, would I love to relive that evening with man I am with now AS MY DATE!
Adult Proms are happening all over, and seem to be the new trend, especially for the 30 somethings!
I think it would be SO much fun to get gussied up, plan a hotel trip, pre-party, post party and PROM, and hopefully get a beautiful corsage from my Husband, and get to dance the night away! How many of us married couples get to get away for the evening, no job, no kids, for just one night to relive a time that was "supposed" to be GREAT? I want a DO OVER.....who's with me?

Light It up!

These are some of my favorite items for decorating, whether it be for a corporate event, birthday party, wedding reception, or just a party for FUN! I went to Orlando to a HUGE nightclub for an National Auto Dealers Association party(BIG CORPORATE EVENT), and the ENTIRE Ballroom had THOUSANDS OF THESE, and it looked amazing!

There were so many colors, some blinking, some solid, and a rainbow of colors....I saw people with these in their cocktails, and wondered why? These "cubes" have the ability to be put in the freezer, and act as "ice cubes" to keep drinks cold. They now sell them in multi shapes and sizes, different colors, ones that change to every color and can also be personalized, or custom "logod" for business or personal.

These are super fun to submerge in water, vases, or simply throw them in the freezer until their cold, and pop them into drinks! Make great party favors too and centerpieces. Contact me if you want information on how to order these. I have had some fun using yellow, red and orange for my Halloween parties.

Seduced by Fairies

I love a party themed around a Midsummer's Night Dream, by Shakespeare!
It is believed to have been written between 1590 and 1596. It portrays the events surrounding the marriage of the Duke of Athens, Theseus, and the Queen of the Amazons, Hippolyta. These include the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of amateur actors, who are manipulated by the fairies who inhabit the forest in which most of the play is set. The play is one of Shakespeare's most popular works for the stage and is widely performed across the world. I think this would make an unbelievable scene for a party, turning your backyard into a Forest of fairies, dressing in costume, lots of flowers and greenery, candles, and creating a beautiful fantasy creation.
You can have lots of trees, with crystals and lights, candle lit pathways, lots of moss and greens, branches, and rose petals lining the walkways. I think this would be a stunning theme for any party or a wedding.

CALLING ALL DANCERS, SINGERS.....

The final date and location is being completed this week, so keep checking back for the FINAL information for the "Kalamazoo's Got Talent" Competition. There will only be a certain number of contestants allowed in each category so time constraints will be met. Performances will be allowed a minute and a half to showcase their Talent. Auditions will be held prior to the event! Winners will be booked all year in different performances, and have opportunities to showcase themselves all year round in Kalamazoo County! If you are a business that would like to advertise in our program book, or you want to be a contestant, contact Kristin at kristin@eventsbyplatinum.com
Pre-registration is available there also. We just need your Name, Address, Email, Phone Number, and what you will be doing for a "Talent".
Winners will receive prizes from local businesses, Crowns for girls, Banners, a Trophy, and Cash prizes!!!!

Oh FUDGE!

Just returned from Mackinaw Island, what a fantastic place to be! surrounded by blue water, picturesque views, and plenty of things to do, whether you want to relax, engage in water activities like parasailing, boating, or if you want to shop, spend time with family, or just walk the bike laden streets(no cars) and take in all the views of the Island. The 15 minute boat ride was beautiful from Mackinaw City, hotel was great, very affordable, and I have to say, the fudge was delicious. Can anyone tell me why Mackinaw is known for Fudge? I remember this as a little girl, and they still give you the little knife with a big chunk of Fudge, FUDGE retailers EVERYWHERE. I indulged a little! If you looking to host a big event, the Grand Hotel grounds are absolutely beautiful. I met a Bride, who decided to get married on the beach, then celebrate with just a small group on the Island. They had their first dance at a local bar/restaurant right near the Grand Hotel, GREAT FOOD and drinks! The Grand Hotel is also host to the movie "Somewhere In Time", with the late Christopher Reeves. What an experience touring the Hotel and seeing where this great movie was filmed. I can't say enough about Mackinaw, next time I hope to stay longer and go to the Fort next time and learn more about the History of the Island.

Take a look at the room that has the panaramic view. Imagine waking up with a view from there!

NEW EVENT, SO EXCITING...

I've been thinking..you know how America has this show...."AMERICA's Got Talent?"
I have now taken on a new event "Kalamazoo's Got Talent"!
The event will be held in Kalamazoo,Mi and open to anyone in Kalamazoo County. More details to follow soon! There will be age divisions, and one overall winner from each category. We welcome singing, dancing, and anything that is considered a "talent" into the competition. Auditions will be held before entrance into the show. There will be an entry fee, and winners will be involved in the Community all year for a Final performance next year. Kids are especially welcome with any kind of talent or performance!
Anyone interested in attending, or competing, please email me at kristin@eventsbyplatinum.com
This is going to be fun.
Winner will receive an Award, and performance opportunities. More info to follow...and cash prizes.

Paying Homage......

Thank you to all who participated in my production at Indian Run Golf Course. I apologize for not posting pictures earlier other than Facebook. I will start with a few and collectively feature as many as I have. The show was a success, and I appreciate all that participated. Here are a few shots, and for those people looking for Vendors, I will post their info, just message me if you need contact information. Here's a few to get you started!

Mmmm, the food was delicious, provided by Indian Run's Caterer. Looking for a great Venue in the Great Kalamazoo area, consider Indian Run. Beautiful views of Golf Course, great food, and a great staff, reasonably priced too. Their best feature....NO MINIMUM! www.irgolfclub.com Contact Sue Green for a tour!

This is a table for "With This Ring" Ceremonies, Reverend Carleen Ward Burns. She is an officiant, and the BEST! She actually married my Husband and I, and is a great writer of vows. She tailors it accordining to your wants and needs, and personalizes your ceremony so that it is meaningful, personal, and special to everyone!
www.withthisringwed.com

Flowers by Tracy Park of Park Place Designs. She has a unique and creative flair for flowers! I have many pictures of her table, but let's start with her ability to make beautiful decor with her floral ability. She is located in West Michigan, and a very busy florist, I can see why. She made the entire Expo look beautiful, and smell so fragrant. Thanks Tracy. www.affordableelegance.com

AWESOME IDEA!

Gather up your brooches, vintage, new, blue, whatever jewelery you want to use. An alternative to a bouquet for any occasion, especially nice for a weddding, is to have one of these "Bridal Brooch Bouquets"! I don't know about you, but I open my jewelery box and have sentimental pieces, mismatched earrings that I just couldn't part with, and an overload of older jewelery that I keep for whatever reason. I think I will try and make one of these just to put in a vase in my home. I can include all different types of jewelery, and put some special pieces in as well.
You can go to some vintage stores, resale stores and buy some pieces, usually very inexpensively, some floral wire, floral wire cutters, floral tape, and make one of these yourself. You just need to take the wire, thread it through a piece of the jewelery, then do another, and another, then wrap green floral tape around the base. Keep adding more pieces until it's a "bouquet"! I know a couple people that make these, so if anyone is interested, let me know! they turn out beautiful. You can also add in ribbons, flowers, material, feathers. Maybe I will try one someday and see how it turns out. A great way to use your old jewelery.

I want to go to Morroco! belly dancing.....

Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, Filafel, bright colors, Henna tattoos....
I really want to host a Morrocan themed party. Put up a tent, get some fabric, some event curtains, lanterns, pillows, and transform an ordinary backyard into a Middle Eastern Morrocan Arabian Night!!!
I think it would be an absolute awesome party for a themed event like a big birthday bash, a wedding, or hosting a dinner party. Anyone having an upcoming event that we could do this for?
Imagine walking into a brightly colored tent, sitting on pillows, candlelit with candles and lanterns, belly dancers, doing henna tattoos, sampling Middle Eastern food like Filafel, Hummous(Hummus), Baba Ghanoush, and more..this could be a great party, and very entertaining. You could even forget the tent and transform a living room, or any area of space really with the right fabrics. You can purchase fabric, and hang it on walls, different prints, different colors, get LOTS OF pillows, some candles and lanterns, and voila..... Arabian Nights.
A nice twist would be to have belly dancers entertain or do a simple performance. I took belly dancing, some of the Pro's actually do parties and will teach a group to belly dance, and even do sword shows! Then add in getting some Henna tattoos, what a great event. This sounds like so much fun I might just do it myself. I am intrigued! who's joining me?

Morrocan Lanterns

Click on banner to get your Arabian Nights supplies, and 10,000 wholesale supplies!

Candy Galore!

Candy Buffetts are all the rage at weddings these days! I love how they add color, like blues, greens, yellows, and pinks. I have seen candy buffetts set to match colors of the Bridal party, and used at baby showers to say whether it's a boy or girl. You can get really creative, and there are tons of options to "do it yourself". You just need containers that are different shapes and sizes, scoops, treats & candies, and unique containers (like a box or plastic bages) for your guests to fill them up! Guests will love the color, and the treats as well. You can opt for a "treat table" instead of a cake at your special occasion, and give your guests more options! Click on the link below to inspiration and supplies!

Engagement Party

Congratulations to Erin and Carl, who had their Engagement party last weekend. It turned out beautifully, food was wonderful, atmosphere sophisticated, and had a great turnout to celebrate their pending nuptials. Attached is a photo of one of the centerpieces that I purchased at Hobby Lobby. Wish I would have had more time, would have ordered from my wholesaler. Remember these tips in planning a party, Hobby Lobby and Michaels purchase these "wholesale" and pass their profit onto their customers. If you have TIME, order your supplies and keep coming here for some DIY tips! More photos of Erin and Carl's Engagement party soon to come. In the meantime, for wholesale Vases and "DO IT YOURSELF" ideas for centerpieces, go to:

Congrats E and C, love you guys!

THANK YOU!

The show was a big hit. It was great to see it come to life. I am sure the next one, which Indian Run has said they'd love to do another with me in November, the beginning of hunting season. If your interested again for the fall, let me know right away. I had a few vendors that could not fit in this show and I will do first come first serve as that is the only fair way to choose.
As pictures come in, I will post on here and you may all use them. I will make sure each photographer gets the necessary credit they deserve. I can't wait to see them. I missed a lot of the show because I was so busy. It wasn't until the end that I actually sat down and tried to take it all in and appreciate the turnout that we had. I am composing a list this week of all the attendees, and will make sure all of the vendors receive a list to follow up with potential clients. I heard some great feedback from many of you that participated, that actually got signed contracts and some bookings. The best review came from a bride, who said she planned her entire wedding from the show, and was so relieved. Not only that but her comments were that this show was so much better than the Radisson's and Rose Street. She said that the format allowed her to sit down and actually talk and get to know the vendors, and she loved that. She also said she had such a great time and has never stayed at a show for that long. Two Brides said the the same thing, and that was the purpose of the show. As an engaged couple, it's hard to pick the "right" vendor for every need. How does someone choose? Price isn't the reason, it should be who you work well with, who does quality work, and shares the same vision. It was great to hear that my vision as an Event Planner was achieved. I wanted to change the way Brides and Grooms go about planning their wedding. Much of the time it's about price, rather than personality, service and quality. I truly believe and was told that this environment put Brides in a relaxed manner to truly get to "choose" who they wanted to business with and interview basically.
I had many vendors that want to return, and I'm so happy for that. I will promise not to raise the price, this show wasn't to profit anyone, but promote good wedding professionals in an environment that celebrates Marriage and fun for brides, grooms and their families/bridal parties. Let's continue to try and get more there next time, and make this tradition.
One last note, I had several vendors say that they booked MORE from this show, than any other, and booked more than 3 other shows. Feel free to comment, all of this feedback matters. I was new to this, organizing a wedding EVENT, so feel free to make suggestions to make it better next time. I have done my own critiquing and would love to hear yours. Hopefully this fall it won't be so windy, and I can actually hang the signage I made and not have it BLOW off onto Sprinkle rd! Thanks again to all of you. Please follow my blog for upcoming events. I plan to do a lot more, which many of you may want to participate! thank you for your support and GREAT SHOW!!!! I hope you all earned business from it.
Sincerely,
Kristin

So far on the Bridal Show....

I just got back from Indian Run, my excitment is increasing as time passes! I have had a couple vendors show up to do their tables, and I completed mine. Room is started to look super cool, and it's really happening. I am hearing more and more about people attending, which is reassuring. I've had to change the layout and floor plan as more requests are pouring in, and try to make everyone happy with their spots. Tonight I am making posters to post along the route, have to pick up balloons, so never fear vendors and Brides, I will make sure people SEE those Indian Run signs. Make sure to take Sprinkle Rd. and turn left at S Ave, it's right where CONSTRUCTION begins! Somehow I have to make that left turn visible! I can't wait to see all the creative tables, and hope that we have a FULL HOUSE! remember to keep posting, blogging and spreading the information. Thanks to all that have put it out there on the internet. More info coming soon, and please FOLLOW ME and my blog. I have NO followers yet!

MY BIG Event

I'm so nervous about this Bridal Show I planned. I care so much that all these vendors feel it was worth their time. I spent so much time on circulating this event, and I sure hope some Brides show up. I'm not sleeping at night because of my fear there will only be a couple. I guess the good thing is we have cocktails, food, wine samples and a DJ there. It'll be a party regardless right?
I'm super excited about my own table, with my colors, representing myself for the first time at a show. I love getting creative. I need some pink and black candies...hmm?
I think I am going to make chocolate covered strawberries for the show! There will be champagne too. Wow, it's sounding more and more appealing. Thank you to all the Vendors who supported this first show of it's kind. I really appreciate your participation.
Does any other Event planner get this stressed out over an event's success? I am so thrilled to be starting to finalize details of a Client's wedding after this show. Keep watching for some other really COOL events coming up in Kalamazoo County. If any of you want to suggest some for me to do, feel free to suggest. I LOVE PLANNING. I honestly have enjoyed planning this expo! I hope all of you have a great time.