Is a chair just a chair?

Have you ever put much thought into a chair? One may think that a chair is simply a functional piece of event furniture. I, however, know that a chair can be a dramatic design element at your event.

**Disclaimer -EVERYTHING in an event is a function of the BUDGET.**

Event professionals will be glad to help you prioritize your spending to get the biggest bang for your buck, and accomplish the aesthetic that you desire.


Let’s start on the low end of the spectrum.

The classic plastic folding chair

We can all agree that these old faithfuls have their place. A casual, outdoor shindig is the perfect spot. You would pair these with basic linens for a simple look.

Next, we progress up the range.

The wooden garden chair

While these are still very reasonably priced, they have a nice solid look and feel to them. They work great for a garden party or tented event. They make perfect outdoor ceremony chairs. While still somewhat casual, these chairs can begin to upgrade the décor of your event.

Let’s move onto a more upscale option...the ballroom chair.

Chiavaris

Chateaus

These beauties can add some drama to your décor. Offered in ranges of shiny metallics to deep wood tones, these chairs become a real focal point at your tables. No sophisticated affair would be complete without a ballroom chair. With the addition of a chair pad, chair cap, or sash, the custom options with these chairs are endless.

At the top of the scale are some exclusive, statement chairs.

Ghost

Chameleon

These are somewhat difficult to find in small markets, but can always be trucked in from more metro areas. These add that “over-the-top” look to any event.  I am chomping at the bit to bring that rouched-back model into town.  Any takers? 

Chairs can be as important as linens, florals, and other decor.  Be sure to allocate your budget accordingly so that you do not compromise the overall vibe of your event.

Next time you enter a large event, see what the chairs are telling you.  It may surprise you!

Happy sitting,

Lori

First editorial published...What's Your Vibe? by Lori Bova

I was tickled today to see an article that I wrote published in the Spring 2010 edition of Wedding Dreams.  This was my first venture into the editorial world. 

I felt privileged to be included as all of the other articles were written by the magazine's editorial staff. 

Cool.  Stuff.

After producing, designing, aiding, and assisting thousands of clients on their special events, it has become clear that it is often difficult for them to pick a look (and stick with it).  I have developed a system at Festivities to help the client determine what their VIBE is.  Clients purchase an 1 hour consultation to get started, then I work my magic.  At the end of the process they receive a fabulous VIBEboard complete with photos, fabric swatches, and tons of inspiration to get them moving down the path to a unified event.

Vibe is much more than just color.  Fabric choice, decor details, chair style, and venue, are some of the elements that play crucial roles in communicating your vibe.  Taking the time upfront to plan will ensure that your event is the truest expression of what it was intended to be.

What's your vibe?

-Lori

Giving back...A Murder in the Wild West

Festivities loves to give back.  For the past 5 years we have enjoyed working with the Ryan Gibson Foundation on their annual One Particular Harbor (OPH) fundraiser.  While Ryan lost his battle with leukemia, his family and friends continue to work tirelessly in an effort to raise money for a cure.

For the past 4 years, Craig and myself, along with friends Randy & Christine Meier and Darren & Susan  Cunningham have donated a dinner party for the auction at OPH.  The first year we produced an 5-course plated, gourmet meal.  Next we did a big pasta party for a large group.  Last year we did a 'Nawlin's style Mardi Gras murder myster dinner.  This year we stayed with the mystery theme, but went to the Wild West.

We girls sure enjoy the planning of these events.  It's a great excuse for us to have lunch together.

We go all out!  No caterers here.  We do it all!

Even the fellas have their roles.

There is a great resource on the web if you want to host your own murder mystery.  Visit mymysteryparty.com.  They don't miss a detail.  The cost is minimal and the benefits are huge.  Below is an excerpt of what you get when you download the party.

 MURDEROUS TABLE OF CONTENTS

List of Characters

General Instructions for the Host

How to Play a Murder Mystery – Guests Instructions

Optional Pre-game Round

Round One – Cocktail Hour

Round Two – Dinner Hour

Victim Sign

Murder Mystery Investigation Sheets

Round Three - Solution Round with Coffee and Dessert

Name Tags

Menu Suggestions

Optional Bonus Game

4 Hidden Codes

Maps of Gravestone Cave

The timeline...

The clues...

The crew from Signed, Sealed, Delivered provided the theme specific decor with the help of Festivities on all of the rental items. 

The menu consisted of upscale steakhouse foods.  The fellas kept the grill going all night from the jalapeno shrimp poppers to the ribeyes!

Twice baked potatoes...

Blue cheese lettuce wedges...

Ohhh and the desserts.  Mini apple tarts, flourless chocolate cake, and homemade vanilla ice cream...

This was the motley crew that we served...

 Jim and Merry Lee Phillips were the ring leaders of the bunch.

He did it!

 Take time to enjoy all of life's festivities.  Make time to give back.  It will greatly enrich your life.

-Lori Bova