Jack & Jill shower

Engaged couples today are both involved in their registries. Some choose to have registries at local hardware stores or large chains in addition to department stores and specialty shops.
The first shower is said to have originated in The Netherlands. A father of a bride-to-be was against the marriage of his daughter to a poor miller. He was adamant about not giving the customary dowry. The villagers took pity on the young couple and got together to "shower" the couple with gifts. Now there are many variations on the shower. Here is one of the newest: the Jack and Jill.
First of all, both the bride and groom are celebrated, his and her friends are invited. A theme for gifts could be a "stocking the bar" shower and could include barware and accessories. Another theme could be the "Handyman/Handywoman" shower and could include tools,ladders,and gardening equipment. A more traditional take could be a practical "room by room" theme which would assign a particular room to be furnished: living room (lamps, rugs, pictures), dining room, bedroom, kitchen, bathrooms, barbeque items for the patio. If the couple are sports enthusiats,items for outdoor sports, camping gear, equipment for the sports they enjoy or chairs for spectator sports. Electronics could be another theme and of course luggage for their honeymoon. Has anyone been to a "Jack and Jill" shower? Comments?

A new breed of bride?

A reader just told me of a letter to Dear Abby concerning a wedding invitation which was sent that included a deposit slip to the engaged couple's bank account "in lieu of gifts." The couple who received it were obviously insulted and were wondering if this was a new trend? Is this worse than the "suggested donation" amount we heard of before? I think so!! Abby responded to the rude behaviour and said that it could have been worse, the bride and groom could have requested the guest's bank number for a debit transaction! OMG!! Comments??

Tailgating Party

With fall around the corner, it's time to think about tailgating parties. Make sure that the stadium parking lot or arena allows for tailgate parties before you head out for the game.
Pack simple and fun foods, supplies and drinks. Think about food that can be cooked ahead, can be transported easily, or if grilling, can be easily grilled.
Check first if alcoholic beverages are permitted before you bring the beer and wine.
You'll be leaving early, so pack the night before. Bring disposable plates, napkins, utensils, bottle openers, condiments, paper towels, folding chairs, radio, small grill (or smoker), coals, cooler, trash bags.
You can also modify a tailgating party by throwing one in your home. The point is to enjoy the game and the company you've gathered to watch it.

Retirement Parties/New Beginnings

Retirement parties can be more than just toasts and roasts. Since many retirees will pursue new careers, hobbies, or a passion that has been put "on hold," plan a party that will reflect this. Make it fun and "up-beat." Encourage guests to bring gifts that are practical, inspirational and fun. If you know they will travel, suggest gifts that will help with this such as luggage, gift certificates to local restaurants or tickets to cultural opportunities. If they have a hobby they will actively pursue, use this as a theme for the party. New equipment, services or a subscription to a magazine on the subject could be given. A membership to a fitness club or a voucher for educational classes could be another option. Celebrate their "New Beginning."

Escort cards vs. Place cards

What's the difference between escort cards and place cards? Escort cards indicate the table where you will be seated, while place cards indicate your particular seat at the table. Some couples choose numbers for the tables, others opt for names of favorite places, romantic celebrity couples, songs, movies, beaches, hobbies, etc. Place cards are usually written in calligraphy. Displaying the escort cards can be as simple as having them lined up on a table, hanging from branches, served on a silver tray or a framed chart. Place cards can be tucked in a napkin fold, put in a frame or incorporated into a favor. Use your imagination and have fun with both. Who has seen some different takes on these?

Top Five List for throwing a Surprise Party

Surprise Parties are a great and fun way to celebrate an anniversary, retirement, "sweet sixteen", bridal shower, baby shower, or a "special" birthday celebration.
If having the party at your home:
1. Send invitations and make sure guests know that this is a surprise party. Have rsvp's sent to someone else or to a work number/cell phone.
2. Have a friend take the guest of honor out for the afternoon of the party. Keep in mind what the guest of honor will be wearing and have guests dress accordingly.
3. Ensure that decorations are not seen from the outside.
4. Have food, beverages and music ready. Food and beverages can be arranged by friends and neighbors or hiring a caterer. Music can be a hired band, DJ or cd's.
5. Have guests arrive at least 30 minutes before the guest of honor will return, and have them park away from the house so their cars are not visible.
Yell "surprise" when the guest of honor arrives!