The Red Carpet Events

We are moving fast!

2011-12-20T15:57:00.001-05:00

So many things are happening and we are still in denial that it's December! In order to streamline our communication, we've decided to relocate our blogs to our main website. To read the latest, please go to www.theredcarpetevents.com. See you there!

- C xo

Events Abroad

2011-07-04T21:17:00.002-04:00

Everyday,the world is becoming smaller...

With this change, events are now becoming more international; weddings as well as special occasions have become more internationally oriented. And those who wish to make an event more exotic, should consider planning one "on- location."

When having an event aboard, one will need to work with persons of a variety of different nationalities.This exchange may be difficult at times. Not only is there a difference of culture, but language as well. There are many ways to handle situations:

Today:

The issue of Language:

1. A way to remove this barrier would be to use what I like to call "International Vocabulary".Instead of saying ' could you take this picture' , how about ' Photo?'. Or instead of "Where is the restroom" , why not 'Toilet?'

2. People from all walks of life just love to be greeted in their native language. Here are a just a few greetings to initiate conversation:

Japan: Konichi wa.

China: Ni hao.

Spanish: Hola.

India(HIndi): Namaste

Russian: Zdrah-stvooy.

3. And finally, in any event, repetition will be needed whether they are a native speaker or not. Make sure to have a note pad and calculator on hand to aid in descriptions and the pricing of some items.

Finlandia The New Evolution

2011-06-27T04:21:00.003-04:00

Experience what we produced in Chicago, Illinois

From The Red Carpet to the Wedding Runway

2011-04-12T17:58:00.002-04:00

(Los Angeles CA) April 12^th 2011. The Red Carpet Events, an event management and production company, has years of experience in creating a myriad of stylish and unforgettable events. Organizing every detail of your event is what they do best and the team knows exactly what to do to make your special wedding day the envy of all your guests.

The Red Carpet Events now offers fashion conscious brides the most comprehensive consultations regarding her wedding day fashions to compliment the sophisticated soirees. Our team of fashion stylists will focus on choosing the perfect style for the bride and her bridesmaids so she will have the perfect gown, plus a dress that suits her in every way from her personality to the fabric type, color and shape. In each consultation, our team of trained professionals will uncover the bridal budget, dress style and preferred designer along with clothing options for the Rehearsal Dinner, Bachelorette Party & Bridal Shower.

With this new and elite service, The Red Carpet Events will complement their wedding planning so that the bride can shop at her leisure and receive personalized assistance in her selections within all aspects of her wedding. This consultation service also insures that the bride will have the most flattering gown for her body type without a sales prejudice. The creative staff can make the event you envision become a reality whether you want it to be elegant, trendy and casual or a style all of its own and complimented perfectly with her memorable day.

Chi-Town Here We Come!

2011-03-29T22:46:00.007-04:00

I am incredibly excited, our next event will be in Chicago. It has been awhile since we have been in the Windy City and I may have to extend a day or two and spend time in my midwest favorites:

#1 - It's a no secret that I'm a bit of a shop-a-holic and where else to start is Michigan Ave. Of course a cute outfit will be needed for the night.

#2 - Dinner at Keefer's one of my all time top steakhouses! I'm already salivating thinking about the filet mignon!

#3 - Just a little too much wine at dinner and we stumble over to the House of Blues, in between catching a great live show, this hotel has the best bowling ally with the city's top DJs. There have been many of nights of "healthy" competition that has gone down on those lanes!

#4 - The day after... now this is only hearsay & I have yet to experience it... Garrett's Popcorn, apparently it the perfect Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner cuisine. We have one here in NYC but being that it is located in Penn Station, it might as well be in Times Square.

Of course I'll be blogging on the hunts along with our event which I haven't forgotten about and will soon announce. Let's just say it will be just as fresh as the crisp Nordic Air!

We Have Been Busy!

2011-03-29T22:33:00.004-04:00

Unfortunately the planning took over the blogging and tweeting to which I give my sincere apologies. It seems as though the economy is finally back on the upswing and although budgets are still a bit tight, clients are eager to promote their products with events!

That being said, we just completed another amazing event with our favorite client Canyon Ranch. Hosting a media event and formal luncheon at Home Studios, we really left the guests thoroughly impressed. Below are the photos from the media day, the luncheon events (and celebrities) can be found on.... http://www.patrickmcmullan.com/site/event_detail.aspx?eid=36412

ENJOY!

DO YOUR FOOTBALL PARTY RIGHT

2011-01-27T18:41:00.006-05:00

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

BY DANIELLE ROSE

Suburban Trends

CORRESPONDENT

POMPTON LAKES — The Super Bowl – a yearly excuse to wear your football jersey, eat buffalo wings, and scream as loud as you want during the game. It’s also a great excuse for a party.

THINKSTOCK

It doesn’t have to be boring just because it’s a football party! There are decorations, food and guests to coordinate.

Christy Bareijsza of The Red Carpet Events, an event planning company originated in Pompton Lakes, suggests starting with team colors.

Everything from invitations to tablecloths can be decked out in the favored team’s color. If you have guests who are fans of both teams she suggests making the event more of a competition, using themes from both.

To foster competition, split your living room down the middle with a fifty yard line, and have your guests sit on their team’s side.

"With the Super Bowl the biggest thing is to bring people together," Bareijsza said. "But people still want to watch the game."

To encourage game watching among your guests, set up as many televisions as you can in your entertaining space.

Ask friends and neighbors bring their flat screens, Bareijsza suggested, and turn your living room into a sports bar. Make sure to include one in the kitchen, if that’s where people will end up gathering, too.

At any social event, food is a staple. Be sure to have an array of items that are both tasty and easy to eat on your lap while watching TV. Bareijsza suggests jazzing up a traditional menu of snacks and finger foods with interesting twists, like serving stadium food - popcorn in old fashioned paper containers, crackerjacks and hot dogs.

Take it a step further and have tailgating party, Bareijsza said. Instead of a formal spread on the dining room table, bring a picnic table inside. Serve burgers and dogs and your favorite tailgating foods.

Bareijsza also suggested making food themed for football, like beer can chicken. Or try something team specific like "Packers Pickles" for Green Bay, or green beer for the Jets. Don’t forget a football shaped cake or cupcakes with brown icing and white frosting laces for dessert.

Beer is an all-time favorite for sporting events, but if you’ll be hosting friends and family who don’t like beer, or are looking for something harder, Bareijsza said a signature drink is a good way to go.

You don’t have to find drinks that are already in existence, either. Bareijsza suggests searching the web for sites that help you find or build your own drink based upon specific criteria. For example, you might want a drink to have a green tint in honor of the Jets, but with vodka as a base.

"You can do as little or as much as you want," Bareijsza said. "The biggest thing is picking a direction and sticking with it … because people miss the point when there’s too much going on."

In other words, make your theme simple. If you go with tailgating, then don’t try to set the room up like a sports bar, too. One main theme is important, and then you can work with something simple like team colors as a sub theme, she said.

The Terrell Owens Speakeasy Soiree on January 19, 2011

2011-01-22T16:29:00.005-05:00

photography credit: Jason Groupp

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T13:43:00.003-05:00

Wishing everyone a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2011! Looking forward to creating many more memories with style in the new decade. The best is yet to come!

Love, Hugs & Kisses,

The Red Carpet Events

For Immediate Release: The Red Carpet Events invites you to Terrell Owens Speakeasy Soiree

2011-01-01T13:37:00.004-05:00

(Hollywood, CA) January 3, 2011- The Red Carpet Events has the pleasure of planning the “Terrell Owens Speakeasy Soiree”, a night filled with mystique, celebrity guests and glamour reminiscent of the opulent Roaring Twenties. This prohibition inspired celebration will take place at The Blind Barber (339 East 10th Street, NY, NY) on Wednesday, January 19, 2011. All proceeds will be donated to benefit The Alzheimer's Association, the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. NFL star receiver and Alzheimer’s Celebrity Ambassador, Terrell Owens expressed, "Alzheimer's is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States and Alzheimer's has affected my own family, so I understand firsthand the impact of this disease. I am proud to support the Alzheimer's Association, as they educate people on the realities of Alzheimer's disease so we can inspire enough support to stop it.”

The authentic concept created by The Red Carpet Events will transport guests to the turn of the century as they enter an unassuming East Village barbershop and are magically whisked back into time. Walking past rows of illuminated candelabras, an elusive mixologist will be indulging guests with themed beverages complimenting the T.O. brand provided by Finlandia, Jack Daniels and Herradura Tequila. Custom hors d’ oeuvres created by Southern Hospitality will also leave guests begging for more bootlegging.  In addition, to ensure every prohibition law is broken, the evening will be filled with endless musical surprises, sexy cigarette girls, a cigar aficionado donned in a fedora, pinstripes and limited edition bow ties designed by NFL player Dhani Jones. Christy Bareijsza, the Founder and CEO of The Red Carpet Events, is thrilled to have her team planning this production for the NFL legend, “We are extremely proud to be supporting Terrell Owens and the generous sponsors in this honorable quest to help bring awareness to Alzheimer’s though such a creative outlet. Terrell’s humanitarian efforts off the field exemplify a genuine strength and heartfelt compassion that often does not receive the proper credit and we are humbled to be chosen to be part of this memorable evening.” Tickets are extremely limited; please go to www.terrellowens.com for further details.

We are please to be planning The Terrell Owens Speakeasy Soiree

2010-12-26T01:16:00.003-05:00

We would be thrilled for you to join us on this special occasion in honor of the Alzheimer's Association. For tickets, please go to www.terrellowens.eventbrite.com

Karmic Satisfaction in Business

2010-12-05T20:35:00.011-05:00

I learned very quickly in owning an event planning and production company that both clients and vendors come in all shapes and sizes along with different variations of stress and frustration. The ideal goal is to keep a majority of our services in-house, but there are particular occasions where outsourcing is needed to support the production, which having vendor partnerships that maintain a priority level of support and loyalty are crucial.

As much as you would like to retain every client and continue to do their future events, there are some that you just have to completely dissolve the business relationship. Often, it may be due to your own faults and incorrect judgements, alternatively it can be that of your vendor's. Regardless, you are still responsible for the client maintenance and event outcome. With allowing sub-contracting vendors access to your clients, you can instill a non-compete, but there still needs to be an established level of trust with the exposure. That being said, what if your vendor decides to side-step loyalty and approach your client to obtain their business directly? Not only does that effect your partnership, how does that make you look to the client in your choices for partners? How do you now move forward with future events? What if your client decides not to use you and contacts your sub-contracted vendor directly?

Of course advise could not be given unless it has been experienced first hand. Unfortunately, I had an extensive working relationship with a designer crumble when he approached the client directly through an email solicitation that he sent to me in error. There was a wide array of emotions from disappointment to betrayal to even hurt. As much as business should not be personal, I have built my company's reputation on investing a true and dedicated interest in each production, therefore each vendor is hand picked and backed by our brand. So, when a situation like this occurs, it's extremely detrimental for all parties. Cutting ties and mitigating damages with the client is mandatory, but wrapping up the pending business can get complicated depending on the level of access given. Having a signed non-compete can be enforceable by law, but how to you justify the damages and future financial opportunities? How can you trust new partners?

Alternatively, what if a client calls a vendor directly? Do they take the business and hope it remains unknown, take the work and offer referral compensation or just turn it away completely? A trustworthy vendor will have an open conversation with you to discuss all the alternatives and come to a mutually agreed upon solution prior to moving forward. If this scenario occurs and open communication is prevalent, that can only strengthen the impact of the entire brand as a whole and ultimately increase your karmic attraction for future business.

Christy Bareijsza on The Wendy Williams Show

2010-12-03T11:59:00.003-05:00

Southern Hospitality & The Holidays, Perfect Together!

2010-12-03T11:53:00.004-05:00

‘TIS THE SEASON! LET SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY HOST YOU THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS

2010-12-03T11:25:00.003-05:00

SHADOW PR Contact: Rachael Workman

P: 212.972.0277 E: rachael@shadowpr.com

The Red Carpet Events Contact: Angie Romero

P: 310.920.1704 E: angie@theredcarpetevents.com

‘TIS THE SEASON! LET SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY HOST YOU THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS

Unrivaled Ambience and Budget-Friendly Buy-Outs Make This Upper East Side Eatery The Perfect Choice for a Private Holiday Soiree

The holidays need not lose their luster when money is tight.  This holiday season, you can still throw a party for the record books at Southern Hospitality, who’s warm staff and comforting cuisine can accommodate groups of any size, taste and budget!

Southern Hospitality exemplifies the often lost meaning of genuine hospitality. Ownership understands the value of a dollar and provides patrons with the highest quality of food and service, giving them a warm and comforting sense of being home. So whether it be a company party, a family celebration or just a friendly fete, bring the holidays back to the homefront this season at this famed Upper East Side eatery!

True southern home-style cooking is nearly impossible to find in Manhattan, but Southern Hospitality treats patrons to a tantalizing menu of southern cuisine, including fine pulled pork sandwiches, baby back ribs, BBQ chicken and fried catfish among many other comforting favorites.

“Southern Hospitality’s menu and interior design embody the best of the south while catering to discerning New Yorkers,” said owner Eytan Sugarman. “Our Memphis-style BBQ restaurant delights diners and shows the true meaning of “southern hospitality.”

Southern Hospitality’s décor, designed by acclaimed artist Roy Nachum, brings the classic elegance of the Old South, instantly charming diners looking for an upscale-yet-comfortable ambience in which to "dig in.” The classic wood themed walls are brilliantly adorned with authentic Jack Daniel's signage and barrels, and a private back room is the perfect setting for any celebration.

2010-12-01T17:36:00.001-05:00

IT’S OFFICIAL! THE RED CARPET EVENTS IS REPRESENTING SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

Two Locations in New York City for Private Events

(Hollywood, CA) December 1, 2010 - The Red Carpet Events, an event management and production company ranked as one of the top 25 event planning companies by NJ BIZ in 2008, 2009 & 2010, is now representing Southern Hospitality’s Upper East Side and Midtown Manhattan locations for social and private events. Southern Hospitality is one the most unique Tennessee BBQ venues to hit the NYC streets direct from the celebrity visionaries Eytan Sugarman, Trace Ayala and Justin Timberlake.

At Southern Hospitality BBQ, you'll find everyone from Hollywood stars to locals, enjoying a comforting menu of fine pulled pork sandwiches, baby back ribs, BBQ chicken, fried catfish among many other southern favorites. Topped off with a true city setting, the classic wood themed walls are brilliantly adorned with authentic Jack Daniel's signage and barrels. Consistently making its mark in the bustling city as a trendsetter, Southern Hospitality was recently featured on E! Entertainment’s The Kendra Show along with being spotlighted on The Wendy Williams Show for their legendary fried pickles in her “Hot Topics” segment.

Christy Bareijsza, the Founder and CEO of The Red Carpet Events has years of experience in hosting a diverse variety of events. She has partnered with the finest venues and professionals to create superior productions with style and class. From business meetings to private parties, she has the tools and creativity to plan the perfect event to match the tone and purpose of the occasion, whether it is professional, elegant or trendy. What asked about Southern Hospitality, Christy expressed "We are thoroughly excited to represent such a respected brand like Southern Hospitality that exemplifies the often lost meaning of genuine hospitality. Southern Hospitality understands the value of a dollar with the highest quality of food and service giving guests a warm and comforting sense of being home. That being said, we encourage you to bring your next event home.”

It's the Official Press Release!

2010-10-25T20:45:00.002-04:00

THE RED CARPET EVENT COMPANY presents HERRADURA TEQUILA

VEGAS TAKEOVER

Herradura’s new packaging launch takes over

The Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas

(Hollywood, CA) October 23, 2010-The Red Carpet Events, an event management company, threw a lavish launch party for the release of the new packaging of Herradura Tequila. Herradura is a distinguished alcohol brand established since 1870 from the Mexican town of Amatitan. The launch party was held on September 24th at the Palms Casino Resort's Fantasy Sky Villa in Las Vegas, Nevada with an attendance of over 175 guests including the city’s top tastemakers.

The launch party was produced under a trendy marketing concept in which the participants could enjoy an open bar prepared with different tequila based drinks along with a taste test comparison to other brands. The décor theme reflected the blue hue of Herradura Silver with sophisticated up lighting, an illuminated round bar in the center of the space complimented by hurricane candles and artistic metal sculptures imported from Mexico. The music was performed by DJ Mick Boogie of Lebron James, Jay-Z and The Grammy Foundation fame and a live show with an agave harvest as well as other engaging entertaining attractions including fresh cigars rolled for the guests as they overlooked an unobstructed and breathtaking view of the Las Vegas strip.

The creator of this exquisite evening was Christy Bareijsza of The Red Carpet Events and her production team who worked hard to achieve optimal customer satisfaction. Jesus Ostos, Herradura Tequila’s National Brand Manager, expressed “Our partnership with The Red Carpet Events made our launch party a very successful one. An unbelievable way of transforming certain place in what we visualized as the concept to be, an upscale, fun, trendy and visually impacting Mexican event. The Red Carpet Events made it happen.”

If you like more information please check out the video at http://vimeo.com/channels/141437 produced by Infinite Vision or to schedule an interview with Christy Bareijsza, please contact Angie Romero (310) 920-1704 or angie@theredcarpetevents.com. For more company information, please visit www.theredcarpetevents.com

In the City That They Call Long Beach...

2010-10-13T23:46:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to the winners of Miss California Latina and Miss Teen California Latina. The Red Carpet Events was honored to assist The Gala Company with the production of this glamorous event at the Hotel Maya in Long Beach, California.

Overlooking the breath taking view of the So Cal city skyline and legendary Queen Mary, the 30 girls competed for the prestigious title in three different categories and judged by six industry leaders. It was such a great experience and definitely a night we were proud to be a part of.

Leaving Las Vegas!

2010-09-28T03:15:00.010-04:00

The Red Carpet Events just returned from producing the Tequila Herradura New Product Launch at the Palms Casino & Resorts Fantasy Suite Sky Villa.

The 175 guests experienced the sophistication of second oldest tequila with a modern and sleek theme inspired by the Mexican culture which included tin artwork, a Jimador harvesting the agave plants and cigar roller enticing the guests with the country's treasures.

An evening to remember that happened in Vegas but won't stay in Vegas.

For more information on the brand, please go to www.herradura.com

Falling for Fall

2010-09-13T14:09:00.003-04:00

This is so delicious it begs to be made the perfect cocktail for Fall. Tuaca is an Italian liqueur with deep roots and a wonderful citrus and vanilla hint and, when combined with hot apple cider, it is extremely comforting and soothing.

Ingredients:

* 2 oz Tuaca

* Hot Apple Cider

* Whipped cream

* Cinnamon stick for garnish

Preparation:

* Pour the Tuaca in an Irish Coffee Glass

* Fill with Hot Apple Cider

* Top with Whipped Cream

* Garnish with a Cinnamon Stick

This beverage is the ideal compliment while enjoying the leaves falling and the changing of seasons at your next event.

California Dreamin'

2010-09-13T12:09:00.005-04:00

What is better then spending time in Northern California? Having The Red Carpet Events plan your next corporate or social event!

We have been quiet for a bit, but are ready again to shake things up like an earthquake. With such knowledgeable staff, you are sure to experience the highest quality of service complimenting a successfully memorable event.

Come join us on a private tour the vineyards and taste the fruits of hard labor, enjoy 5 star cuisine or visit a spa for the perfect relaxation. Northern California has so much to offer your personal guests or corporate group and there is only one company that knows how to do that best. Experience what we have to offer on www.theredcarpetevents.com where we create Memories with Style on the West Coast!

Your Guide to the Perfect Vintage Wedding

2010-08-28T00:57:00.002-04:00

Whether you want your wedding to have an extremely vintage theme, or are just looking to add some vintage touches, here are some ideas to get you thinking. You don’t need a time machine or a huge budget to achieve a truly beautiful vintage soiree.

The Attire

Lets start with the most important thing….Wardrobe!! Consider wearing a family members wedding gown. If this is not an option why not borrow an accessory from a loved one. An antique piece of jewellery or a veil would be perfect to add an old-time touch to your ensemble. Sticking to high quality fabrics and classic embellishments will result in you walking down the aisle looking like Grace Kelly.

The Entertainment

Choose the entertainment for your wedding carefully! It will set the tone for the entire event. Use a string quartet or a swing band to give that perfect vintage feel. It would be a great idea to have a traditional bandstand for their performance and have a phonograph play before the band comes on to set the stage for coming attractions!

The Traditions

Add that special extra vintage feeling to your wedding by using traditions and customs from the past. For example, the groom must not see the bride before the wedding as it is considered bad luck. Ask your bridesmaid or mother to arrange Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and Something Blue. And, remember to share the first piece of wedding cake with your new hubby. It was once believed that this created an unbreakable bond between the couple and the sweetness of the cake was thought to bring sweetness to all areas of the new couple’s life!

The Finer Details

Ambient lighting such as extravagant chandeliers and large candelabras are perfect for a vintage themed event. Use plenty of lace, peals, beads and rich fabrics. It is also a nice touch to have framed pictures of parents or grandparents on their wedding days displayed near the guest book. Drive away in a vintage car or Rolls Royce to finish off the day on the right note.

Ever thine, Ever mine, Ever yours

End of Summer Garden Parties

2010-08-17T16:10:00.005-04:00

The sultry summer days are limited, so why not make use of them by throwing an elegant garden party for your friends and family? Here are some event inspirations for your "End of Summer Soiree"

Food

The food you serve is so important to the success of your garden party. Remember, a well fed guest is a happy guest! Set up some snack stations strategically around the garden for guests to nibble on soon after they arrive.

We recommend serving dishes that are simple but elegant. Interesting summer inspired salads and vegetables with a selection of unusual breads can be prepared in advance giving you time to be hostess with the mostess!

Beverages

Don't underestimate the importance of a delightful beverage menu at your party. Why not create a summer signature cocktail such as a citrus lemonade with splash of Finlandia Wild Berries or a twist on sweet tea by adding Finlandia Mango. Think fruity, icy and refreshing! Serve drinks in fun and flirty glassware and compliment them with fruit or flowers as a garnish.

Decorations

Use strings of white Chinese paper lights and hurricane lanterns with pillar candles to create a magical feeling in the garden. Jazz up dull areas by adding extra throw pillows, potted plants and flowers. Creatively make inexpensive but delightful centerpieces for the tables by using fresh fruit such as lemons, limes and oranges.

Entertainment

The atmosphere of your party will be hugely impacted by the music! Put some time into creating a playlist on your ipod of easy breezy listening music. But it might be a good idea to have a back up playlist in case the event turns to a dance party under the summer stars!

Tips for an Eco - Friendly Wedding

2010-08-03T12:04:00.005-04:00

Opting for an eco-friendly wedding is a great way of starting your lives together. Going green doesn't mean your wedding can not be a elegant and stylish event. Follow our tips to ensure your wedding day is unforgettable, while still being kind to mother nature!

1. The Stationary

Your wedding invitation can set the tone for your eco friendly wedding. There are many options including 100% recycled invitations, partially recycled invitations or completely tree free papers from wedding stationary suppliers. Be sure to use eco-friendly stationary throughout your wedding including; announcement cards, invitations, save the date cards, shower invitations and thank you cards, ceremony booklet, place cards, menus and thank you notes.

Also, consider communicating with guests electronically where possible to cut down on waste.

2. The Venue

The venue for your wedding may be the biggest decision to make. But this decision is one that should be given huge consideration if you want an environmentally kind wedding. Consider an outdoor venue, they need less decoration and generally have a smaller carbon footprint. Or, find a green venue. Some venues are demonstrating a commitment to saving water & energy and reducing waste.

3. The Wedding Dress

Choosing your wedding dress does not have to be a difficult decision! The easiest, and most eco-friendly decision you could make is to re-use a wedding gown. Or why not buy vintage, rent or use a family members dress? If having a new and unique dress is very important to you, consider buying a dress which is made from an organic material such as hemp, organic cotton or linen.

4. The Flowers

Conserve cut flowers. Consider using your ceremony flower arrangements for your reception. Or, find out what other weddings are due to take place the same day and organize with the other couple to share flowers. Not only will this reduce the amount of cut flowers, but also cut your costs considerably! Buy organic, locally grown blooms - organic flowers are grown in an environmentally friendly way, without pesticides.

5. The Menu

Ensure the food on the menu is organic. Purchasing organic fruits, vegetables and even wines from organic producers promotes green business practices. Also, make sure your caterer sources local produce to cut down on transport.

The trick is, decide what elements of your wedding can be scaled down, "green it up" or simply omit it.

We create memories with style while being kind to Mother Nature!

10 Easy Tips to GREEN a Meeting

2010-07-20T12:53:00.004-04:00

We understand that turning your events BlueGreen all in one brush stroke may seem overwhelming. Here are 10 easy tips you can apply to any meeting to make it more environmentally responsible suggested by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency:

Put it in writing. Establish an environmental statement or policy for the meeting, and get buy in for it from the meeting host organization's management. Share the policy with suppliers, delegates and speakers. You'll be amazed at how far they'll go to help you make your event Green.
Use paperless technology. Use new media and electronic technology to cut down your paper use. Create a conference web site; offer electronic registration and confirmation; and advertise using the web and/or email.
Meet close. Reduce distances traveled by speakers and delegates. Choose a host city that's close to as many delegates as possible, and within the city choose a venue and hotel that are close to the airport and within walking distance of each other.
Practice the 3Rs. Ask your hotel and meeting venue to provide visible and accessible reduction, reuse and recycling services for paper, metal, plastic and glass.
Bulk up. Have your food & beverage service provider use bulk dispensers for sugar, salt, pepper, cream and other condiments.
Lighten your Stay. Choose a hotel that offers a linen reuse program and bulk dispensers for shampoos and soaps in guest suites.
Eat green. Include vegetarian meals, and have meals planned using local, seasonal produce.
Close the recycling loop. Have all printed materials published on recycled paper, using vegetable-based inks, and on both sides of the page.
Save energy. Coordinate with the meeting venue to ensure that energy lights and air conditioning will be turned off when rooms are not in use.
Spread the word! Tell delegates, speakers and the media about your success. You'll be surprised - BlueGreen efforts are contagious.

Trash the Dress! (or not)

2010-07-08T16:03:00.006-04:00

Your wedding dress is probably the single most important thing to consider before your big day. But, have you even considered what you'll do with it when it's all over? You could just get it cleaned and pack if away, never to be seen again. Think about it, it is very likely you will never need the dress again and no, your daughter will not want to wear it in 25 years time!

Trash the dress is a relatively new concept which is believed to have begun in Hollywood in 1998 and has grown in popularity over the past few years. Brides (& Grooms) all over the world have started to think of unusual ways in which they can destroy their wedding day attire prior to the event and have the most incredible one of a kind photographs.

So why not think outside the box, perhaps you grew up near a lake or beach and wish to reflect this in your shoot? The main objective should be that you are having fun and capturing a great moment and the beginning of your life together! Here are some pictures to get you thinking.

Trash it, dirty it, enjoy it!

Wedloft by Weddingwindow.com

2010-07-03T07:29:00.000-04:00

This week we interviewed Chrysty Bareijsza, president of The Red Carpet Events. Since 2001, this event planning company has been offering couples wedding planning services that include both full wedding coordination and day of coordination. The Red Carpet Events will handle all of your wedding needs whether they’re big or small. They will find the perfect venue, caterer, florist … whatever is needed to fulfill your vision.

Christy has instilled planning processes and procedures in her company which ensure that each wedding runs both effectively and intelligently. She prides herself on her company’s reputation for consistently providing the highest standards and ethics when planning each event and producing original and detailed weddings. They pull from the positive energy of the Bride and Groom and expresses their excitement in the production of the event, making their dreams a reality.

Photo Credit: Jason Groupp

The Red Carpet Events even offers Bachelorette packages! Their themes vary from a day at the spa to a night of dinner and drinks. Each event is planned for the bride and her ladies. You can even have a custom bachelorette event planned for you. All of their packages include a VIP host and limousine service.

Photo Credit: 5 West Studios

How do you help couples customize their weddings?
Upon my first meeting with each couple, I have them create a three part list with the following columns; “What I Would Love to Have at My Wedding, What I Would Like to Have, What I Don’t Care About”. Within those three columns, I’m able to strategically review with the couple the details down to the icing on the cake and really understand their main goals and how we can taylor their event to perfection.

At what point in the planning process do you typically work with couples?
Ideally I like to begin working with couples after they have become engaged and are just beginning to estimate a nuptial date and source a venue. Since a venue is typically the bulk of their budget, having a planner partner with the couple when facilitating the site selection and negotiations is preferred. We’ve also been approached by couples who have already contracted the venue and vendors and we will be hired for the “day of” to pull all the working parts together along and handle any last minute needs including the on site management for the wedding.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your business?
The Red Carpet Events is a business that prides itself on remaining behind the scenes and making sure the couple is the undisputed highlight of the joyous day. A wedding shouldn’t be stressful it should be a celebration of commitment and we are here to make that happen flawlessly with grace and elegance.

Here are some photos of a Red Carpet Events wedding …

Photo Credit: Jason Groupp

A Sexy Summer With A Splash!

2010-06-27T15:04:00.006-04:00

Sex in the City kicked off the Summer with sophistication, fashion and glamour and there's no reason why we can't tie the trend into our events! Enjoy this refreshing signature cocktail in your cutest sundress and Christian Louboutins!

The Stiletto

2 oz. Three Olives

Berry Vodka

4 oz. Tonic

Splash of Grenadine

Mix in your favorite Swarovski crystal donned glass filled with ice and garnish with an orange slice.

Summertime & the Living is Easy

2010-06-22T10:55:00.005-04:00

The summer months, as described in George Gershwins classic song, ‘Summertime and the Living is Easy’, is often presumed to be a time for more casual and laid back affairs. However, we here at the Red Carpet believe this does not have to be the case. Follow our tips to ensure the most special day of your life is as elegant and romantic as you have always dreamed!

Color: Use soft, pale tones such as creams, ivory, blush and soft apricot. Avoid bold colors as they tend to give a more modern look

Fabrics: Too much or heavy fabric is not appropriate for a summer wedding. Decorate using sheer fabrics like soft silk, cotton muslin or fine linen.

Don’t forget to pay attention to small details such as adding a satin ribbon to bouquets.

Flowers: Stick to old fashioned roses in pale shades to add a sense of timeless romance and wildflowers to infuse your wedding with luxury.

Remember to make sure your flowers stay in an air-conditioned area until the last possible minute! Also, consider having two bouquets, one for the ceremony and one for the photos to ensure they look fresh!

Lighting: Nothing adds a touch of class like candlelight. But remember; don’t add unwanted heat this time of the year! Keep candles away from guest’s faces. Instead, line walkways and the entrance with candles and use plenty of lanterns and hurricanes to ensure everywhere has that romantic glistening glow!

Tweet! Tweet!

2010-06-14T20:29:00.003-04:00

Celebrities, Event Planners & Taste Makers follow us on Twitter, so why not you? For the latest tips, event trends and of course gossip, follow us at www.twitter.com/chrisbareijsza where we create Tweets with Style!

One Wed Savvy-Scoop's Featured Wedding by The Red Carpet Events!

2010-06-14T20:19:00.001-04:00

Rita Veygman and Roman Shukhman’s wedding took place at the Pierre Hotel in New York City. Wedding planner, Christy Bareijsza of The Red Carpet Events developed the theme of “French Renaissance” meets “Classic New York.”

Guests were invited into the ivory-washed room where the chuppah (marriage canopy) stood as the center focal point dripping in orchids, roses and hydrangeas, complimented by crystals and layers of silk taffeta. The columns were accentuated by the perfect lighting as the bride walked down the aisle in a Vera Wang wedding dress.

Guests entered the Grand Ballroom after a heartfelt ceremony that was filled with tears and joy. The Grand Ballroom burst with color and opulence as well as breathtaking crystal chandeliers decorated with peach garden roses, hydrangeas, ivory phalaenopsis orchids and Swarovski crystals. The floral color reflected off chocolate brown linens that was surrounded by deep orange satellite arrangements and pillar candles. An elegantly designed monogram was intertwined throughout the wedding from the cocktail napkins to the lighting to the menu cards.

All 225 guests were energized by the ten-piece band as they all danced the night away. The New York City glamor offered a breathtaking experience not only for Rita and Roman but for everyone who attended the wedding.

http://www.onewed.com/blog/savvy-scoop/category/featured-wedding/2010/04/20/featured-wedding-french-renaissance-meets-new-york-glamor/

Love To Know More about Christy Bareijsza? Read below...

2010-06-14T20:16:00.000-04:00

Wedding Planning Tips Interview

wedding planning tips can help brides create their dream day with ease. Too often wedding planning is an experience wrought with frustrations and anxieties, but it doesn't have to be that way. Working with a wedding planner to fine tune all the details of the big day can make the process easier for many brides, especially those who are strapped for time.

Christy Bareijsza. Image credit: Jason Groupp

Christy Bareijsza, President of The Red Carpet Events and one of the Metro NY area's top event planners, spoke with LoveToKnow to give brides tips on wedding planning and working with a wedding planner in this special interview.

About Christy Bareijsza

LoveToKnow (LTK): Christy, you have an impressive background in the event planning industry and are currently CEO of The Red Carpet Events. Can you tell us a little bit about what inspired you to work in this industry?

Christy Bareijsza (CB): My inspiration to establish this company was when I was attending a wedding at the Cuisinart Resort & Spa in Anguilla, British West Indies and realized I should take my corporate experience as the Vice President of Meetings and Conferences and focus my energies more on building my own brand to create unique and breathtaking special events.

Working with a Wedding Planner

LTK: Many brides are overwhelmed with all the details of their weddings, and what should be a happy and exciting time becomes filled with stress and frustration. Please tell us a little bit about why choosing professional wedding coordination can really make a difference for the bride and groom.

CB: A wedding planner specifically works for the Bride and Groom, not the venue and suppliers. A couple truly needs an impartial expert to guide them through the planning process to ensure they are receiving the best experience with an ease of mind.

Wedding Planning Tips for Your Perfect Day

LTK: Theme weddings are increasing in popularity, and many couples relish the thought of incorporating a theme into their wedding that showcases their personalities and interests. Do you have any tips for those couples interested in a theme wedding?

CB: Using a favorite fashion item, piece of artwork, or song can be ideal to inspire a unique wedding theme. A wedding planner can also assist with their expertise in elevating the inspiration into a reality through creative and thought-provoking decor for a fabulously tailored event.

LTK: Some couples have only a vague idea of what they want their dream wedding to be like. What recommendations do you have for couples to make their weddings personalized and unique?

CB: Upon my first meeting with each couple, I have them create a three-part list with the following columns; "What I Would Love to Have at My Wedding, What I Would Like to Have, and What I Don't Care About." Within those three columns, I'm able to strategically review with the couple all the details down to the icing on the cake and really understand their main priorities and how we can tailor their event to perfection.

Trends, a Special Venue, and Final Tips

LTK: Do you foresee any new trends for the coming wedding season?

CB: The most prominent trend is using color as a theme. Many couples are still hindered by the down economy, so their ability to utilize a hue(s) as an inspiration has become the newest trend since it can accommodate any budget.

LTK: The Red Carpet Events offers a variety of wedding venues. What is the most unique venue you've coordinated a wedding at?

CB: A 13th Century Castle in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

LTK: Any final wedding planning tips for brides?

CB: A good relationship extends more than just the marriage; a couple should take advantage of the relationships a wedding planner can provide. Often the pre-existing planner’s relationships will allow the bride and groom to have an advantage in negotiated vendor pricing and concessions.

More About The Red Carpet Events

The Red Carpet Events specializes in wedding and special event planning, corporate events, and site research and venue consultation. Ranked one of the Top 25 Event Planning firms by NJ Biz, the company offers both full wedding planning packages and a "day of" wedding consultation package. For more information, contact The Red Carpet Events via their website at by phone at 973-632-9291 or via the web at www.theredcarpetevents.com.

Initial Author: Amy Finley

http://weddings.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Wedding_Planning_Tips_Interview

The Quest for "IT" Begins with The Red Carpet Events!

2010-06-14T20:01:00.002-04:00

Event Planner Guru Christy Bareijsza Breaks out the Red Carpet

Christy Bareijsza,President of The Red Carpet Events known to many as the Event Guru, the expert of experts in the field of event planning and weddings continues to produce stellar events and provide memorable experiences in 2010.

Christy Bareijsza, the Event Guru and a go-to source for creatively produced events from soirees to corporate events, to one-of-a-kind special weddings that are different from the norm continues to expand business this year. With her many years in the business, Christy really personalizes events and exceeds client expectations by taking it to another level and achieving the best results for them.

The ***Red Carpet Events is a national full service planning and production company that designs, manages, and produces from start to finish high-end soirees from celebrity entertainment to elaborate weddings--from wedding planning that includes the finest catering, photography, flowers, cakes, entertainment, beauty services, custom gift sources and more. Clients include American Express Departures Magazine, Bombardier FlexJet, Canyon Ranch Spa & Resort, AETN International, Brown Forman to name a few.

“Our events calendar was full of wonderful special events and weddings in 2009, and with 2010 we’re scheduling elaborate events and weddings throughout the year. My team is just as passionate as I am in what we do, and we have many referrals from our clients because quite frankly, we’re visionaries in producing specialized events to tailor-made weddings,” states Ms. Bareijsza.

***- The Red Carpet Events has been a leader in the industry since 2001, boasting a client list that includes numerous corporations, venues, fashion, sporting, hotels, and personalities alike. The company has been added to the preferred vendor list of numerous Fortune 500 corporations and is part of a national network of premiere suppliers

http://www.thequestforit.com/the_quest_for_it/2010/05/-event-planner-guru-christy-bareijsza-.html

The Story Of America

2010-06-12T14:51:00.007-04:00

We're proud to share some photos from A&E Television Networks gala spotlighting the History Channel's "The Story of America." What better of a place to hold this soiree then Ellis Island. Our breath is still taken away by the Registry Room, so many of our ancestors walked the same steps to freedom, including my own.

Photos courtesy of Jason Groupp

Three's a Charm!

2010-06-10T00:35:00.003-04:00

We are proud to announce that The Red Carpet Events was ranked number ELEVEN out of the Top 25 Event Planning Firms in New Jersey by NJBIZ. This is the third year in a row we have been ranked and thrilled by the honor!

Top of the Rock with Red Carpet Events!

2010-06-10T00:27:00.006-04:00

Enjoy some photos from our recent event at 620 Loft & Gardens. We just completed A&E Television Network's International Conference and are excited to show off some of our work.

Photos courtesy of Lindsey Thorne of Jason Groupp Photography

The Red Carpet Events Weddings

2010-05-21T11:35:00.005-04:00

It's hard to believe it's been almost TWO years since this amazing wedding at the Pleasantdale Chateau. Happy Anniversary Lacy & Adam!

(and of course thank you Jason Groupp Photography for the incredible photos!)

Protecting Your Business

2010-05-20T01:18:00.008-04:00

You booked a program at a reputable hotel.

Negotiated and contracted a commissionable room rate for a group block.

Fulfilled the room block.

The client submitted final payment and the program is complete.

You are now expecting your commission payment.

It is never processed and the hotel refuses to acknowledge your business...

Despite a mutually agreed upon commissionable rate contract, it has recently been alleged that hotels such as Harrah's, Bally's and Paris Las Vegas have been neglecting to pay room block commissions post event completion. Has the economy been so brutal that hotels are preferring to subject themselves to possible legal action over cutting checks?

When this is a major revenue stream for event business, how do you protect your company from having to obtain legal council to award what is contractually yours? I recently found a complaint in the state of Nevada experiencing this particular issue to which the monies owed have become substantial. How can you protect your business so you don't have the same experience?

https://w3.courtlink.lexisnexis.com/cookcounty/FindDock.asp?NCase=2010-L-004282&SearchType=0&Database=2&case_no=&=&=&=&PLtype=1&sname=&CDate=

It looks like we shall soon find out.

The Latest from the Canyon Ranch Event!

2010-05-20T01:05:00.003-04:00

We were proud to produce another fabulous Canyon Ranch Event this past March at Home Studios Inc. in NYC. Keeping the theme "All About You" complimented by the color scheme of greens, ivory and chocolates, this event was sure to please! Guests were treated to posture education, nutritional cooking classes along with creating their own scented scrubs and body butters. Pampering was taken to a whole new level and we were thrilled to be a part of the experience.

Tweet! Tweet!

2010-04-16T23:52:00.004-04:00

I never thought I'd say it, but I'm really hooked on Twitter! It's a great outlet to keep friends updated in my own witty way. If you have an account, follow me! Let's connect!

www.twitter.com/chrisbareijsza

Planning Your Wedding Just Got Easier with Christy Bareijsza, CMP, CMM, President of the Red Carpet Events

2010-03-26T17:20:00.001-04:00

Inspiration: Use a favorite fashion item, piece of artwork, or song to inspire a unique wedding theme. A Wedding Planner can assist in elevating the inspiration into a reality through creative decor for a fabulously tailored event.

Accountability: A Wedding Planner specifically works for the Bride and Groom, not the venue and suppliers. A couple truly needs an impartial expert to guide them through the planning process to ensure they are receiving the best experience.

Negotiation: A good relationship extends more then just the marriage, a couple should take advantage of the relationships a Wedding Planner can provide. Often the pre-existing Planner relationships will allow the Bride and Groom to have an advantage in negotiated vendor pricing and concessions.

Stress Relief: The Big Day is stressful enough, being concerned about the limousines arriving on time, flowers being fresh and the band's instruments being in tune can only add more headaches and worry. A Wedding Planner is there to give the ease of mind and ensure all the moving parts are flawlessly executed as planned.

Etiquette: Relationships are difficult enough. Weddings generally involving family, ethnic traditions and faith can only add unnecessary stress. Lean on your Wedding Planner to help with the proper and unbiased etiquette answers to ensure everyone is pleased with the ceremonial day.

Bride Magazine, Macy's and Clinique presents Beauty Week in Miami, Florida

2010-03-26T00:19:00.003-04:00

Mark Your Calendar! March 9, 2010 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

2010-03-09T00:29:00.004-05:00

Come see The Red Carpet Events on Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at the Angel Orensanz Foundation from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM.

Christy Bareijsza will be there to answer event questions, discuss trends and share new decor ideas. Come see this unique venue tucked in the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

More then just a massage... Canyon Ranch Spa & Resort

2010-02-17T15:28:00.008-05:00

Please enjoy the latest event we produced for the lovely ladies of Canyon Ranch Spa. They participated in an event at the Mandarin Oriental in New York City with rave reviews.

About Canyon Ranch...

Canyon Ranch® is the most respected and admired destination resort spa in the world. Since 1979, we have received countless awards and accolades for our innovative approach to health, wellness and holistic and integrative care, and for the uniquely relaxing and inspiring experience we provide. In every new endeavor, Canyon Ranch remains true to its inspiration and history.

Through select partnerships, philanthropy and community connection, we demonstrate our continuing commitment to exploring new possibilities and furthering our mission. This dedication is shared by our diverse, talented and highly qualified professional staff – including many authors and sought-after speakers who inspire audiences with their desire to help all people discover their potential for a healthier and more fulfilled life.

For more information, experience www.canyonranch.com

Working With External Audio Visual Vendors in Hotels

2010-01-21T11:33:00.003-05:00

With the downturn of the economy, certain industries have been hit harder then others. One in particular is the Hospitality community and to further protect future monetary losses, hotels have been issuing new clauses to ensure you keep the majority of your business in-house including audio visual and decor services. In theory, one would assume this would be an ideal situation for the client, but with the internal vendors charging top dollar and often lacking in customer service, the Client is clearly not receiving value and if they choose the external vendor, the hotel is trying to force a substantial fee to bring in the services.

As a planner you need to know that this is not a forcible contractual obligation and as a consumer you have the right to choose your own vendors without penalty. Please read through this article below to help you combat this new trend.

Customers: you must be aware of contracts that may affect your ability to work with your chosen suppliers

As a meeting planner, you may have run into a situation where a hotel or convention center has pressured you strongly to use their designated audiovisual supplier. Ultimately in such cases, you usually do have a choice, but the

decision to use your own supplier may come with a cost - frequently, it can result in operational restrictions and surcharges, based on your contract with the meeting facility.

This situation is becoming more common at meeting facilities throughout North America. Meeting facilities are trying to leverage their position as providers of meeting space to influence customers to use their recommended suppliers. This

is natural, as facilities can earn a significant commission from their in-house suppliers. Conversely, if you bring in your own suppliers, they lose out on this potential revenue.

As a meeting planner, you need to be sure that this trend does not conflict with the interests of your organization. You go to considerable trouble and expense to hold meetings, and you do so in order to share important information – your

“message”. AV technology is the medium by which you communicate that message. Therefore, the AV component of your meeting is “mission critical”- if it fails, it compromises the success of your entire event. For this reason, you want

to be sure you are able to choose the AV supplier that is best for you.

There are many policies, commonly applied by facilities in the interest of safety or law, which are fair and reasonable. Likewise, there are fees that can be justified by added value to the customer, or by an underlying cost to the facility.

However, some policies and fees appear to be designed specifically to influence or restrict a customer’s choice of suppliers, or to limit the activities of those companies hired directly by that customer.

Often, these policies and fees may not be apparent to meeting planners at the time they are booking space, as they are not covered specifically in the space contract, but are contained in the facility’s operating policies & procedures

manual. These come to light only after the contract is signed.

Therefore, it is important to insist that you are informed about all AV-related policies and charges, before you sign your facility contract. When you contract with a facility to rent space, you should also make it clear that you expect them to

respect your established relationships with your suppliers, and that your contract for meeting space is legally unrelated to your contracts with any other vendors.

Following is a description of some of the more common policies and fees relating to audio-visual services at meeting facilities. Also included are opinions as to your rights as a customer, and some guidelines as to what should be considered

fair and reasonable.

Know your rights

Your specific rights are spelled out in the contract that you sign with a meeting facility. Most facility contracts, by their nature, are tailored to suit your specific needs. However, all contracts should still be reviewed to identify any clauses that

may limit your opportunity to use an AV vendor of your choice.

In general terms, when you rent space from a meeting facility, the facility will spell out what activities you may or may not conduct in that space. Otherwise, subject to further restrictions expressed in the contract and subject to laws of

general application, the space is yours to do with as you please.

A facility cannot prohibit you from using your own equipment, or rented equipment, in meeting space that has been rented by you, provided such use is consistent with the purpose for which the space has been rented, and provided

such equipment conforms to local safety standards.

Under the law, any equipment or staff hired by you for a meeting are deemed to be under your control, as if they were your own. Therefore, 3rd party equipment and staff are subject to the same rules and conditions that apply to your own.

Policies and fees relating to AV activities in facilities vary widely from place to place, but simply put, if they are in your contract, you are bound by them. If they are not, the facility should not expect you to comply with them. Fees related to

such policies should be based on a published price list, and should be the same for all customers, regardless of what AV vendor they hire.

Access to the building

Unless otherwise stipulated in your contract with the meeting facility, you have access to those areas of the building that are required for you to move equipment and people in or out. This includes 3rd party staff and equipment hired by you.

The meeting facility has the right to know who your 3rd party hires are, and their move-in/move-out schedule. However, they do not have the right to charge fees to provide access for them, unless such fees are specified in your contract.

Rigging

It is reasonable for a facility to stipulate rigging regulations, or to designate a rigging contractor in the building, as there are legitimate safety and infrastructure concerns related specifically to rigging. For safety reasons, a facility will often

require that you submit a rigging plot for approval in advance - 2 weeks before the event is a typical time frame.

As well, a facility may reasonably require you to rent any equipment that attaches directly to the building from it’s rigging contractor, and to charge a fee for attachment to permanent rigging points in the ceiling. However, the facility should

not require that you use any other of the rigging contractor’s equipment.

A facility should be able to provide you with scale drawings of their ceilings (both hard-copy and electronic), a current engineer’s report with weight ratings for all rigging points, and the credentials of the riggers working on your event.

Electrical services

Electricity available from the permanent outlets in meeting rooms is included in the cost of your meeting room rental. It is, however, normal for a facility to charge additional fees for electricity required above and beyond this. They will probably

ask you to submit a schedule of such extra electrical requirements in advance - 2 weeks before the event is a typical time frame.

It is reasonable for a facility to designate an electrical contractor in the building to provide any such extra electricity requirements, as there are legitimate safety and infrastructure concerns related specifically to electrical services.

Patch fees

Many facilities will restrict the use of the sound systems built into their meeting rooms, in order to protect those systems from misuse. If you wish to have your own AV vendor connect to these systems, the facility will often charge you a

“patch” fee, in order to do so.

Typical patch costs range from $30-$50 per room per day; anything more than this is generally considered high. These fees are frequently negotiable, provided such negotiation is done before your contract is signed.

Storage

If your event requires an AV storage room, it is your responsibility to provide this space for your vendor from within your meeting space block. Aside from this, storage of equipment or cases within your contracted meeting rooms, including

backstage areas, should not be unreasonably restricted by a facility. You should always include an AV storage room in your initial meeting space negotiation, as there may be an extra cost for this space, if it is requested after the fact.

Security/supervision fees

A facility should not force you to hire their security or supervisory personnel to monitor the activities of your AV vendor, any more than they would to monitor your own staff’s activities. This is an example of a policy that is becoming more

common, which seems to be designed specifically to deter customers from bringing in outside companies.

Commissions, access fees, & surcharges

It is inappropriate for a facility to charge you a commission, access fee, or surcharge related to your choice of AV vendor. Likewise, they cannot solicit such a fee from your AV vendor, with or without your knowledge, or restrict access by

your AV vendor to their premises, based on refusal to pay such fees.

How to keep your options open

The following clause, titled “Buyer’s rights regarding third party suppliers” is designed for inclusion in your initial RFP to facilities, and also to be appended to your organization’s standard facility contract.

Buyer’s rights regarding third party suppliers

Buyer will not accept or agree to any proposal or contract containing conditions, terms, or clauses which unreasonably restrict our choice of third party suppliers for our event(s) at any meeting facility, whether such conditions are expressly

stated in the proposal or contract, or whether they are contained in the general operating policies of the facility, be they published or unpublished.

Furthermore, Buyer will not accept or agree to any fees, surcharges, or penalties of any type charged by a meeting facility that are in any way based on or tied to our choice of third party suppliers, whether such fees are expressly stated in the

proposal or contract, or whether they are contained in the general operating policies of the facility, be they published or unpublished.

This “Buyer’s rights regarding third party suppliers” clause shall be appended to all contracts that are executed by Buyer, and if it is determined that this clause is in conflict with any other clause, portion of any contract, or any

general operating policy of the facility, then this “Buyer’s rights regarding third party suppliers” clause shall be deemed to take precedence over the other item(s) with which it is determined to be in conflict, unless specifically agreed

otherwise.

The James Blake Foundation and BackOffice Associates "Serving for a Cure" Event - December 1, 2009

2010-01-18T16:33:00.006-05:00

photography by Jason Groupp

It's Restaurant Week in New York City!

2010-01-18T15:56:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year! As we're all getting back in the mix of things and recovering from the hectic holidays.... what better thing to do then combat that holiday weight with more eating!

It's restaurant week in NYC and the best and most affordable way to eat at the city's finest establishments for $24.07 for lunch and $35.00 per person for dinner. This is the best way to try the trendiest spots while still dealing with this pesky recession. Hurry up and make your reservations from January 25 - February 7, 2010!

http://www.nycgo.com/restaurantweek/?cid=wrw_eblast_011210

Tip of the Month BACK TO SCHOOL

2009-09-14T00:00:00.003-04:00

It's time to go back to school, and in the age of the internet, simple things like books can often be forgotten. It might be my age and not truly relying on the net until I was in college, but there is still something magical about opening that hard cover and immersing yourself in the writing. Why not have an event themed around these works of art?

With such unique event spaces like the New York Public Library or the Hudson Bar and Books, you could play on the theme of reading as elaborate as bringing a favorite novel to life with decor or just having a book swap party. The opportunities are endless and completely relatable to each guest. Keep the Tip going, feel free to leave a comment below with your favorite novel.

My latest inspiration is "Eat Pray Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert.

Who's on Strike?

2009-08-30T01:19:00.017-04:00

If you are not from NYC or a major city in the United States, you may not be the most familiar with a Union supporting your production staff when planning an event. It sounds simple having a designated "in-house" staff but it can have it's complications.

Originally blossoming in strength from the Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Presidential Administration with the establishment of the WPA, the Labor Unions and related associations were elevated to protect workers that had been taken advantage of post Depression. Fast forward 70+ years and we're presently facing another "recession" and another labor issue in itself. We now are being forced to deal with often mediocre work, the threats of strikes and in general, overpriced labor. You HAVE to work with these organizations, how to you make it work for you?

The first suggestion is to understand the purpose of the Union, ask questions and get to know the mediator. We're in a tight economy and the event business has been few and far between. Some work is better then no work and often they are willing to give into combining their labor with your non-union labor. Talk to the mediator about your budget, union labor can often be double the price of non-union and although it won't be the same price, at least there may be a way they can reduce your costs. In this day and age it's all about communication and the understanding of what both parties are trying to accomplish. With that approach, you will save yourself unnecessary resistance that could ultimately hinder your event. Besides, a blow up rat and picket signs isn't aways the best option for decor!

When to Charge a Cancellation Fee?

2009-08-28T01:46:00.005-04:00

Event Cancellations are a very sensitive subject for most Planners and can be more of a disappointment then anything else.

The Client calls, you are asked to plan an event, you meet with the client, they are interested in your ideas and in fact, excited to have the event. The Planner prepares the contract and has to immediately start working on the event since the Client is filled with expectations, although the Client has yet to issue a signature and submit the invoice for payment. Continuing to work and move ahead, the Planner starts to get into the true depth of the planning in conjunction to the Client's guidance and verbal agreement. Then, out of no where, the Client cancels the event, due to an INSERT REASON HERE (budget, sponsorship, attendee) issue.

Now what?

Without a signed and binding agreement, how do you justify the cost of the time spent on preparing the event without a formal cancellation clause? This is a very tricky situation. The first question you must ask is "How Do You View the Client?". Is this a Client that you have done business with in the past, plan to do business with in the future or is a prominent figure in your particular industry? Then "How Much Work Did You Truly Put Into the Planning?" and "Can You Utilize That Work For a Future Event?". Also, is it worth having a conversation with the Client to see if they will work with you on a cancellation fee without creating a conflict. Those are all tough business decisions to make.

What if don't feel as though the Client is worth the business? What kind of repercussions do you have? Do you really want to settle this matter in the court system? Do you have the documentation to even support your case?

The best resolution is to not even let the situation get to this point. But if it does, communication along with the understanding that no one enjoys talking about money is the first step. It is the nature of the business and the only road to a solution, especially if you want to be compensated for your services.

Tip of the Month FIRE & ICE

2009-08-02T14:30:00.007-04:00

A very good friend of mine inspired this Tip of the Month, over a business conversation. We tend to endlessly bicker about each other's communication skills, but always come up with a great idea or concept in the end. Kind of like Fire & Ice.

The combination of those two elements will really make your event HOT! Combining decor items like an ice sculptured bar with candelabras can add glamour and sex appeal to any evening.

By also adding color to represent fire and ice, a planner can elevate the decor by inviting guests to make a choice between the two with their attire. Food items like fruit smoothies, fondue and bananas foster can appease the crowd while the are entertained by fire dancers!

The possibilities are endless to create a hot event with a cool culture.

I've been neglectful...

2009-08-02T11:54:00.006-04:00

I can not believe it's August, July flew by! But in all honesty, that was in part for my first genuine vacation in over four years. Don't get me wrong, I've been away, but not truly "away" without planning a major event filled with emails and conference calls interrupting my beach time.

So I packed up my laptop (I had too, the withdrawal would have been major!) and my passport and headed over to Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands just south of Spain. Staying in an 13th century castle, I was ready to be treated like a princess.

Ironically, the island wasn't mainly Spaniards but a conglomerate of Germans, Austrians, Dutch and British. A melting pot of amazing European cuisine and hospitality, I was truly in heaven with Mallorca. The preferred hot spot of the locals was Puerto Portals and each night it was filled with the bustling energy and excitement of the island, surrounded by a breathtaking backdrop of luxurious yachts in the seaport. Each night we had a different dining experience with entertainment, facilitated by both the venues and the locals!

I really think smiles and laughter is the true medicine for stress relief, and it did wonders for this event planner. This island will always have a special place in my heart and hope to return again and again.

Experience the finest on the Island:

Ritzi

www.ritzi-mallorca.com

Tristian Restuarant

www.grupotristan.com

Puro Beach

www.purohotel.com

Nassau Beach Club

www.nassaubeachclub.com

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-03T23:57:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite summer holidays. Enjoy the delights of BBQ, warm weather and suntan lotion with Friends and Family! Being on the waterfront in Jersey City, I'm privy to the best fireworks NYC has to offer and can not wait! It's great to honor Independence and the birth of America!

Happy Fourth of July!

Top 25 Event Planning Firms!

2009-07-03T23:38:00.003-04:00

Congratulations are in order! NJ Biz ranked The Red Carpet Events as one of the Top 25 Event Planning Firms in NJ for 2009. We are thrilled to be ranked again for the second year in a row!

Tip of the Month - UMBRELLA PARTY

2009-06-18T09:44:00.005-04:00

"Now it's raining more then ever, you can stand under my umbrella..." is a popular song by Rihanna and for anyone who is living on the East Coast, we have been experiencing more rain then anyone has ever wanted or needed. So, why not have an Umbrella themed party?

Have the guests arrive with their most unique and colorful umbrellas that will be up for trade during the evening to ensure there's a buzz from the beginning. Hang a themed color pallet of umbrellas upside down from the ceiling for a unique take on decor. Specialty drinks will be on the menu donning umbrellas and title them witty names like "The Mary Poppins" and "Singing in the Rain". Make sure to use goulashes as the base for your flower arrangements and have a DJ play all the hits like "It's Raining Men" by the Weather Girls!

It will definitely be a night to remember, provided Mother Nature cooperates with a down pour!

Blah...

2009-06-08T20:23:00.006-04:00

So, everyone around me, whether it's colleagues or friends seems to be kind of, well... you know, "blah".

Ignoring the out pour of emotion would be the obvious answer, but being the true confrontational Aquarius that I am, I have to ask..."What is up?"

With unemployment being a gross 9.4%, those that are employed should be grateful to have a job. But, in reality, are resentful with all the excess work, minimization of benefits and constant threats of layoffs. While those that are unemployed, are in fear of not being able to pay their bills or worse, ever rejoining the work force in the same capacity they were dismissed from it. Unfortunately, the economy isn't take a turn for the better and coping with the situation is seeming more bleak then ever.

That being said, how do we turn things around? It seems like we can't rely on the government for complete survival, so we need to handle these obstacles ourselves. It starts with shaking the "blah" right out of our system and looking at the more positive things in life. Business has to come, the world thrives on commerce, and while it's arriving, we all need to focus on what truly make us happy in our lives. Being centered will allow the ability to get back to what is important which is happiness, and ultimately will shake the "blah".

Live from Rita & Roman's Wedding at The Pierre!

2009-06-01T09:46:00.003-04:00

This video is great! Put together by my favorite photographer, Jason Groupp (www.jasongroupp.com), it's a fun and light narrative of the entire day. As you see each player behind the scenes, you'll realize that we all truly love what we do!

Rita and Roman - The wedding day from Jason Groupp on Vimeo.

Tip of the Month: ADDING GOLDFISH

2009-05-10T22:41:00.004-04:00

Everyone loves a sushi station at their event, so why not dress it up with fish?

Grab a couple of acrylic rectangular boxes, fill them with water & stack them with style on the buffet station. To make the station turn to life, add goldfish from a local pet store (not Pepperidge Farm Goldfish!) and place them in the acrylic boxes. Gently add the sushi on top and give guests a surprise!

Summer is Just Around the Corner....

2009-05-10T22:32:00.002-04:00

Summer is almost here! To celebrate, a good friend of mine is working with an inventive beverage company called Three Olives that specialized in flavored vodka. It's the perfect compliment to any event! From chocolate to grape to watermelon vodka, it is definitely a must have for any beverage station.

Watermelontini
1 oz. Three Olives Watermelon Vodka 1 oz.
Three Olives Citrus Vodka
1 oz. Cranberry juice

Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a cherry and lemon twist.

Plan B by Christy Bareijsza, CMP, CMM - Event Solutions Magazine

2009-04-27T14:09:00.001-04:00

“PARA DONDE VAS?!?!?”

It was one of those moments straight out of movie when the music stops, the guests freeze, and then they all turn as one to stare at the perpetrator of the disturbance.
In this case, it was me. And I don’t even speak Spanish.

My company had been asked to plan an annual non-profit gala dinner for a group of 200 professionals. With the current economic climate and associated declining morale, the client didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to celebrate everyone’s achievements, but had scaled the budget back so much that this non-profit event was nicknamed the “non-budget” event. Needless to say, there were hesitations even in the proposal stage.

The organization, consisting of Hispanic real estate agents, was looking to do an ethnic theme, meaning exotic décor options from a Caribbean marketplace, to a cigar roller to flamenco dancers. Music was a priority to the group and despite the cost savings a DJ could offer, the client was set on having a band.

New to working with an event planning company, the gala chairmen wanted to maintain more control and insisted on utilizing vendors that had been contracted years prior, despite our advice to re-evaluate. In particular, the board was adamant about hiring an unusually affordable 10-piece band that had received mixed reviews and had a history of communication issues. Despite our objections, the client went through with the contract and sent the band a deposit.
Given that the band avoided a majority of our pre-event phone calls and e-mail communication, the day of the event, we received a pleasant surprise: They were at the venue, set up and sound-checked according to the production schedule. Upon completion, the band told us they would be right back. It would be smooth sailing from there, I thought.

The event began as planned. Once the cocktail hour ended, the band was scheduled to kick off the entrance into the dinner reception. We walked into the ballroom prior to the guests, only to find that the band had completely disappeared from the venue! All we had for entertainment were a couple of instruments and two event planners with no musical talent.

Fortunately, because of our original apprehensions, a DJ had been hired as a backup. Since the venue was older, however, it wasn’t built for a quick turnaround of a multi-room production. The DJ had to relocate from the lobby-level cocktail reception area up one service elevator used for six separate events to the 20th floor — while moving the equipment through another event’s reception. Needless to say, the process wasn’t simple. Even though we were rushing, the relocation took over 25 minutes — an eternity of silence with the missing band. To our surprise, the band finally reappeared 45 minutes later, telling us they had gone off-property to eat because they were hungry and could not find a morsel of food in the entire banquet hall.

Opting not to upset the client any further and risk the band becoming disgruntled, I asked the performers to get onstage and start performing immediately. They completed their first two sets smoothly enough. Before the third, however, the band leader asked a random guest on the dance floor if they could leave at 11 p.m. The guest responded “yes,” not realizing the implications of that one simple word, with the event ending at midnight and the option to extend overtime.
Before my very eyes at one minute past 11, the band packed up in the middle of the event and started to take off faster than a tornado! We watched in shock as brass horns were put away, drumsticks flew in the air and guitars were stuffed in bags. I turned to my event manager and saw her trying to stop 10 band members from rushing the exit door.

Meanwhile, the band, not acknowledging any English conversation or seeming to care that they were breaching their contract and leaving the DJ to begin playing in panic for a second time, pulled an electrical wire and shorted the DJ’s speaker and we lost the sound. It was in the ensuing chaos that I finally yelled out, “PARA DONDE VAS!?!?!”—“Where are you going!?!?!”
Their response, now in English: “We were told it was OK to leave, so we are.”

What a mess! Knowing enough about audio equipment, I was able to help the DJ fix the short and he started playing to the edgy crowd eager to dance and close out the night of celebration.
Despite the fact that this vendor was a referral from the client, it was still our responsibility to ensure the event’s success. We tried to mitigate the endless pre- and onsite planning damages by having continuous music with the DJ and reassuring the client’s stress level by staying calm and finding solutions to the mishaps as best possible. We also had to deal with endless comments from the committee members to which we realized going forward would insist on ONE point of contact to ensure that all group decisions from the client were made prior to our planning conversations along with enforcing the understanding that we are here to help and not take over the organization. Ideally, this situation was resolved as best as it could be and the client was refunded partial payment for the band’s improper conduct.

Lesson learned: the client instilled the trust to use our preferred vendors and event planning abilities despite budgetary restrictions and understanding how to eliminate relying on “Plan B”.

Guest columnist Christy Bareijsza, a certified meeting professional and meeting manager, is the owner of Jersey City, N.J.-based The Red Carpet Events (theredcarpetevents.com). Contact: christy@theredcarpetevents.com

Why a Good Event Planner is Such a Necessity....

2009-04-13T10:16:00.002-04:00

This Bloomberg article was sent by a client today regarding how the economy has effected the $60 billion dollar wedding business in treacherous ways. Brides are showing up to venues that are closed without notice and excitingly waiting for their wedding day photographs that don't exist. This article underlines why it is so crucial to hire a good wedding planner that understands the industry and liabilities that come along with it. From negotiating mutual protection in contracts to hiring vendors with both accountability and sustainability, these needs are almost more important then the magic of the day.

Brides Kiss Dream Weddings Goodbye as Recession Shuts Vendors
2009-04-13 04:01:00.9 GMT

By Alexis Leondis and Elizabeth Hester
April 13 (Bloomberg) -- Connie Banks was planning a
“bride’s dream” at Tuscany of Garden Oaks, a Houston banquet
hall with ceilings painted to resemble the Sistine Chapel. Then
the hall’s owner filed for bankruptcy.
Banks, whose family paid $22,000 for the space and catering,
was suddenly left with no place to put the 250 people on her
wedding list.
“I still feel guilty my parents lost all that money,”
said Banks, a 24-year-old teacher who found a new venue at the
additional cost of having to change the date to a Friday from a
Saturday this June. “I also feel guilty guests will have to
take more time off from work to attend a Friday wedding.”
The $60 billion-a-year U.S. wedding industry is contracting
along with the rest of the economy, said Millie Martini Bratten,
editor-in-chief of Conde Nast’s Brides magazine in New York.
Couples are scaling back on champagne and chocolate fountains,
and business failures by florists and caterers are forcing
changes in plans.
“People don’t time when they fall in love with the
economic cycles,” Martini Bratten said. “But when times are
tight, we do see a pull-back in spending.”
The average cost of tying the knot in the U.S. fell 24
percent last year from 2007, to $21,814, and slipped in the
first quarter to $19,196, according to Tucson, Arizona-based
Wedding Report, a research firm.
The number of vows exchanged will probably drop this year
because every economic contraction since 1945 has been followed
by a decline in weddings, said Shane McMurray, the firm’s chief
executive officer. He said there were 100,000 fewer in 2002 than
2001, when the U.S. was in a recession for eight months.

Cocktail Parties

The economy has shed about 5.1 million jobs since December
2007, the most in a post-World War II slump, according to the
Labor Department. The U.S. jobless rate is 8.5 percent, the
highest since 1983.
Wedding industry unemployment can’t be calculated because
photographers, dress makers and others usually don’t limit their
work to one kind of event, McMurray said.
“Ninety percent of wedding vendors are small businesses,
so these folks are obviously struggling,” he said.
In Manhattan, couples are downsizing by opting for cocktail
parties instead of sit-down dinners, said Amy Aversa, owner of
Sweet Basil Catering in New York.
“It’s definitely forcing caterers to get more creative,”
said Aversa, who estimates her average client is spending 30
percent less this year.

$2,200 More

To trim the budget for a September reception, Aversa said
she’s using fewer fresh flowers in centerpieces and filling
empty spaces with candles and photographs. She’s also getting
more requests for cupcakes rather than multilayered bridal cakes.
For Margarita Lambos in Charlotte, North Carolina, the cost
of the shrinking economy was $6,200.
Lambos paid cash in advance when she ordered a $4,000
Swarovski crystal-embellished Ines Di Santo gown for her walk
down the aisle. Then the recession claimed another victim: the
bridal boutique that had her money and her dress.
“Their bankruptcy almost ruined my wedding,” said Lambos,
a 26-year-old stay-at-home mother. After La Bella Sposa closed
in June, Lambos said she contacted the designer’s Toronto studio
and, parting with $2,200 more, was married in August in her
“dream dress.”
Lambos said she decided not to bother signing up as a
creditor in the La Bella Sposa bankruptcy.

Second Choice

The bridal store couldn’t survive a pullback in
discretionary spending, said Rick Mitchell, the owners’
bankruptcy lawyer.
“People don’t necessarily need an $8,000 wedding gown to
get married,” Mitchell said.
In Houston, after Tuscany of Garden Oaks closed and owner
Titus Inc. filed for bankruptcy, Banks reserved her second-
choice wedding location, Chateau Polonez. She said she thinks
her situation “turned out on the better end” of the spectrum.
Minute Maid Park, home of baseball’s Houston Astros, was
the site of weddings for 33 other brides left without reception
spaces by Titus, which also owned Bella Terraza, another venue
that shut down. Chef and television personality Rachel Ray threw
them a mass ceremony and party for 500 friends in November and
aired the event on her syndicated show.
Leonard Simon, a lawyer for Titus’s owner, Carolyn James,
declined to comment.
The recession hadn’t begun when Laura McCormick, a stay-at-
home mother in Middle Township, New Jersey, posed for pictures
with her wedding party in March 2007. McCormick, 28, said she
paid Celebrations Studios $4,000 and still doesn’t have a
professional photograph of the event.

The Culprit

“We ended up with pretty much nothing,” McCormick said.
Celebration Studios, based in Chester, New Jersey, was low
on cash as business started to slow and couldn’t pay
photographers who took pictures around the time of the McCormick
wedding, said Jeffrey Herrmann, Celebration Studio’s attorney.
Some workers who hadn’t been paid kept their images, he said.
The company closed in January 2008 and was sued that month
by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, which accused
Celebration Studios of violating state consumer fraud law by
taking deposits when it knew it wouldn’t be able to perform the
services. Under a court order, the agency is distributing photos,
negatives and video footage to customers, according to Jeff Lamm,
a spokesman for the consumer division.
Celebration Studios didn’t intend to deceive clients,
Herrmann said.
“The culprit in this was the recession,” he said.

Celebratory Wedding Mood

Katharine Atkinson, a 29-year-old grant writer in Portland,
Oregon, has mailed save-the-date cards for her August wedding at
the Portland Classical Chinese Garden. Because her father, a
home-builder, hasn’t made a sale in eight months and her mother
and stepfather lost their jobs, she said, she’s concerned about
what she’ll be spending.
“It feels uncomfortable for me to be in a celebratory
wedding mood,” she said in an e-mail. “It didn’t take long for
the glow of being newly engaged to wear off.”

The Pierre - April 4, 2009

2009-04-09T09:29:00.007-04:00

Congratulations Rita and Roman on an amazing and beautiful wedding at the Pierre this past Saturday. It was our pleasure to be part of your special day.

Thank you Jason Groupp for the incredible photography, visit his blog at www.jasongphoto.com

Tip of the Month: ECONOMY BUSTERS

2009-04-01T14:36:00.004-04:00

What's the best way to fend the Depression with an event? Have an ECONOMY BUSTER Party! Grab your friends and find a great Wall Street bar and send out an invitation to the "brokers" on Monopoly Money!

When your guests arrive, make sure both the men and women dress in blue shirts, suits and ties. Each signature drink will be themed from the NASDAQ to THE CRASH to THE BAILOUT. The highlight of the event will be a green screen that guests can take photos ringing the Stock Exchange Bell. Despite the tough times, this will sure put a smile on every one's faces!

Working with Your Spouse

2009-03-30T12:26:00.007-04:00

Planning an event is difficult enough and managing the right employees is never an easy addition. So what if one of your "employees" is your spouse or significant other? How do you manage that?

Being one half a couple is never a simple feat, so adding the pressure of event management into a relationship is a true test for anyone. So what do you do? Do you even hire your hubby? Limit him to certain responsibilities? Keep him onsite supporting you 100%? Everyone has a different way to work and how do you know the two of you will click?

Personally, I've had mates that are great and have had client's requesting them for future projects and others that have decided that if I said left they would go right, despite the client's (or my) wishes. Ultimately the only outcome would be an argument. How do you make this decision? Do you have to change your management technique to accommodate the loved one or do you just not include him? It's such a double edged sword that seems to never have the right resolution. And what if you have to fire him? He might expect more then an unemployment check!

That being said, how do you work with your spouse?

"Getting Down and Dirty With Venues: The Secrets of Contact Negotiation" by Christy Bareijsza, CMP, CMM

2009-03-24T11:49:00.003-04:00

For a copy of the presentation "Getting Down and Dirty with Venues: The Secrets of Contract Negotiation" from the successful Catersource/Event Solutions 2009 Conference please email info@theredcarpetevents.com.

"It was terrific meeting you. I really enjoyed your class. Thank you for sharing all the knowledge."
- Catherine An, An Catering from Crustaceans

"Thank you for taking the time to present. It was very informative and a pleasure meeting you as well. I will definitely keep in touch."
- Natily Santos, Aramark

"I really enjoyed talking with you this morning and appreciate your getting this to me so quickly.
I too believe that we learn and grow by sharing our tools and tips."
- Marla Martinsen, Martinsen Group

"Thank you for your informative session this morning and for sharing your presentation with me. Your tips and tools for negotiating contracts will really help my colleagues and me."
- Ginger Castle, UCLA Fund

Back from Catersource/Event Solutions Magazine Conference

2009-03-24T11:09:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to finally sit down and talk about the Catersource/Event Solutions Magazine Conference this past February in Las Vegas (www.event-solutions.com)

It was my first time speaking at this particular event and it was so great to reconnect with the heartbeat of the industry. With the economy in this current state and the government "cracking down" on corporate conferences, it was interesting to hear the different planner perspectives along with how they have been effected regionally. As a whole, the meeting planning industry is currently a tough sell and unfortunately this trend becoming even more unavoidable.

With that in mind, the Catersource/Events Solutions conference was a great resource to share ideas and concepts that have helped maintain and ultimately sustain business along with learning what wasn't so successful. I believe it gave hope that the industry will eventually turn around and by educating ourselves to be smart and savvy planners, we will be better able to justify the necessity of having us on board.

Thank you Catersource and Event Solutions Magazine for including me in this amazing experience!

Tip of the Month GO GREEN

2009-03-05T13:37:00.003-05:00

What does GREEN mean to you? Is it the the color of a shamrock (or even beer!) on St. Patrick's Day? The color of grass when Spring arrives? Kermit the Frog? A dollar bill? Envy? Or.... is it the new environmental trend?

The answer is "D", all of the above.

Color Wheel Pro states "Green is the color of nature. It symbolizes growth, harmony, freshness, and fertility. Green has strong emotional correspondence with safety. Dark green is also commonly associated with money.

Green has great healing power. It is the most restful color for the human eye; it can improve vision. Green suggests stability and endurance. Sometimes green denotes lack of experience; for example, a 'greenhorn' is a novice. In heraldry, green indicates growth and hope. Green, as opposed to red, means safety; it is the color of free passage in road traffic.

Use green to indicate safety when advertising drugs and medical products. Green is directly related to nature, so you can use it to promote 'green' products. Dull, darker green is commonly associated with money, the financial world, banking, and Wall Street."

So, in honor of the March Tip of the Month, along with St. Patrick's Day, Easter and all great things that go with Spring including the Environment, be creative and throw GREEN in to the mix of your next event and COMMENT BACK ON HOW YOU DID IT! You will be sure to get a harmonious response!

Thank you to Steve Zak, Remi Fagbohun & Milirae Castro!

2009-03-05T13:24:00.010-05:00

This is a very delayed, but major "Thank You" to Steve Zak, he is the photographer that did my most recent shoot for my updated bio pictures. The styling was by the great Remi Fagbohun from The Versatile Shopper and hair and make up by the famous Milirae Castro from Face to Face. If you like their work, please do not hesitate to give them a call!

Steve Zak, Photographer
zaksteve@gmail.com
(646) 641-6053

Remi Fagbohun, The Verstaile Shopper
remi@tvshpr.com
(201) 925-8163

Milirae Castro, Face to Face
milirae@facetoface.com
(973) 809-8366

What I Think I Need? What I Want. What I HAVE TO HAVE!

2009-03-05T12:57:00.005-05:00

In this day and age, budgets are definitely a touchy subject especially when it comes to a wedding. Paying for an event by "Robbing Peter to Pay Paul" is a great way to do it in corporate America with endless departments allocated with budgets, but when it comes to your own personal funds, things can be a lot different.

A great way to really focus on the important items of your special day is to make it very scientific. Sit down with your fiancee (yes... the man that proposed to you) and grab a pen and paper.

On that sheet of paper, make THREE columns and write the following:

1. What I think I need?
2. What I want.
3. What I HAVE to HAVE!

Use those three columns to touch on every aspect of the wedding from "having good service", to "having tasty food" to "having a Vera Wang dress".....the list is endless. And ladies, make sure to have your Groom present and involved, no matter how much complaining. Possibly "having Grey Goose vodka" is the one and only thing on his list, but if it's important to him, it should be there!

Once the list is complete, look at the items in the "HAVE to HAVE" column and compile them into general groups and you will start to see a pattern, whether the money should be spent more on the venue, the florist or even the entertainment, it will be clear as day. This little exercise will give you both a better focus on your budgetary needs and a fuller understanding of what is important to both of you.

After all is said and done, and the main wedding costs are met, look at your budget and if you have funds left, go to the "What I Want" list and treat yourself!

Cold Calling Blog - Revisited

2009-02-17T12:13:00.002-05:00

I've been receiving a lot of feedback from my Cold Calling Blog posted on 2/6/09 and I wanted to post a comment from Bcaponi, this reader had some great advise and I wanted to ensure it was shared with everyone, thank you for the comments!

As a blogger that specializes in helping companies get in front of more prospects (including cold calling - www.coldcalling101), I appreciate your thoughts and let me add three additional ones.

1) As much as we'd like people to take those calls and have a brief conversation with us, it's going to get harder because those that are left after the lay-offs have even more to do. Ergo, our voicemails better be very compelling or we'll less often get through let along have that informational conversation.

2) If you're looking for someone who believes the way you do (and be more willing to have a conversation), call into the sales department first. Us sales types are generally very friendly and willing to help other sales people learn some valuable information before calling the person you think (or the sales person thinks) is the right one.

3) Also, when you ask to be transfered, the call will generally ring as an internal call, more likely to be picked up!

Catersource & Events Solutions 2009 Conference & Tradeshow

2009-02-17T11:29:00.002-05:00

Event Planners!

Be there or be square for the Catersource & Event Solutions 2009 Conference & Tradeshow February 22-26, 2009 at the Las Vegas Hilton & Convention Center!

There will be two sessions to watch carefully:

2/24/09 at 10:45 AM - "Working Better - And Smarter with your CSM/Event Planner"

2/25/09 at 9:00 AM - "Getting Down & Dirty with Venues: The Secrets of Contract Negotiating"

Yours truly will be speaking at both! For more information, go to www.event-solutions.com!

See you there!

Tip of the Month RED

2009-02-06T14:56:00.006-05:00

I'm putting it out there....I hate Valentine's Day.

Whether I've had a wonderful boyfriend or I was single and carefree on February 14, the "holiday" is overrated. There is too much pressure to buy flowers (RED roses, of course), enjoy a nice meal and make the evening uniquely special. In reality, you usually end up paying entirely too much for wilted petals, poor service and cold food. The only holiday guarantee is an argument with your loved one at the end of the night.

So when planning an event in February, why not avoid the Hallmark theme and go with something more broader, simplistic and carefree?

Have a RED party!

There is a vast amount of outrageous things you can do with lighting and design from a red wash on the room to a red dance floor surrounded with trendy furniture complimented with sexy black linens that sparkle with a red color.... and that is just for starters.

Planners could also save on the floral budget and creatively work with fruits such as cherries, strawberries and macintosh apples that could enhance a sense of over the top fun! This concept is definitely a diversion from the cheesy cherubs and tacky hearts, and surely more appreciated.

Being called The RED Carpet Events, you can pretty much understand why we have our jaded perspective!

Agenda Magazine's Newest Writer

2009-02-06T14:49:00.003-05:00

We are proud to announce that Christy Bareijsza is the newest writer for Agenda Magazine!

Christy will be covering the nightlife venues in New York that encompass the "Agenda PM" series. Look for her first article in the March 2009 edition of the magazine and regularly visit www.agendaonline.com for exciting venue updates, expertise articles and creative decor ideas for your upcoming meetings and events.

Cold Calling

2009-02-06T14:01:00.009-05:00

I started my career over 10 years ago in Corporate America. This was pre 9/11 and the meeting and event business in New York City was booming. Being the VP of Event Planning, all the sales calls were directed to me. Instead of sending the calls to voicemail, with little or no intentions of returning the call, I would pick them up and speak to the sales person. If it was service we had and we where happy with our current vendor, I would inform them of that, but always ask to receive their contact information. If we did not have the service and there was interest, I would set up a meeting accordingly.

Three years later, 9/11 occurred and the hospitality and tourism market sank to unthinkable lows. I was still the VP, and when the sales calls increased, I will still take the call and either gather the contact information or set up a meeting based on our current needs.

Ten years later, I still remain in contact and utilize the services of those vendors that called blindly over the decade, and are thankful for their support and loyalty in growing my company's current and future business.

Presently, we are in a recession (or a depression as some may call it) and now I am the one doing the cold calling since I am no longer the VP of another company, but the President of my own. The difference is that I'm receiving "straight to voicemail" phone lines or the new trend of a "sales and marketing" hotline that won't allow you to connect with a live individual.

In January of 2009 we were fed endless media about "Change" and believing once again in the United States and helping to bring back a lucrative economy. Wasn't this supposed to be a movement to start helping one another?

Did I miss something?

Despite the thousands losing their jobs daily, business still needs to occur to help motivate the economic upswing. There are still wedding celebrations, corporate meetings and promotional events occurring that need the help of a strong, budget conscious, respectable company. I'm kindly asking these associates in charge of those events to simply just take that vendor's call. Even if the conversation is for 30 seconds, it is all that matters. And if you decide that this vendor is not for you, it will still be considered a successful call. Otherwise, you are feeding into the negativity that has been dictated by the media and possibly losing out on an amazing service.

Having experienced both ends of the spectrum, I understand the challenges of each. From the anxiety of making the call to the awkwardness of the unknown. No one wants to say "no" but a "no thank you" and a conversation to why the service is not needed will make both parties more the wiser and form some type of relationship for the future.

Just try it once next time you receive a phone call, you never know what just might happen.

For My Brides, Let's Toast A Signature Drink

2009-01-01T20:29:00.008-05:00

The fun thing about planning a wedding is tailoring the event design and being able to add a touch of you and your fiance's personality to the celebration.

A great way to do this is to add your own signature drink. Whether it be a colored beverage to go along with the bridesmaid dresses or a candy letter to go with your monogram in a martini, or even a fun flavor like the recipe below titled "Wedding Cake", the beverage is sure to please!

To complete the design, be sure to put the recipe and signature name in a fun frame on the bar so everyone can take part in the creativity. Whatever liquid you choose to savor, you will definitely have guests excited to share your special day.

Hopefully they will remember at least most of it, fondly!

Wedding Cake Martini

Ingredients

* 1/2 oz of Vodka

* 3 oz of Amaretto

* 1/2 oz OJ

* 1/2 oz Pineapple Juice

* 1 tablespoon Heavy Cream

The Mix

* Pour the liquid ingredients into a shaker 1/2 full of cracked ice (except the heavy cream)

* Shake the mix

* Strain your martini cocktail into 2 freezing martini glasses

* Top each glass with 1/2 of the heavy cream

Tip of the Month WINTER FUN WITH EVENTS

2009-01-01T19:56:00.003-05:00

We all know this holiday season hasn't been too festive and with the economy still in the pits and layoffs happening daily.....it may be time to have a "Cure the Winter Blues" party!

A great way to throw a party and not bankrupt your budget is to do some fun, economical winter decor!

Start by grabbing those unused candy canes & add them to your drink. To compliment the food, what better way to emulate the snow then adding powered sugar to the presentation of hors d' oeuvres! Finally, channel your inner child and grab the paper and scissors and start cutting those snow flakes for a Winter Wonderland!

Peppermint Martini

Ingredients

* 5 oz of Vodka

* 2 oz of white Creme de Menthe

* 1/2 oz of Peppermint Schnapps

* Candy Cane

* Crushed sugar

The Mix

* Pour all of your liquid ingredients into a shaker 1/2 full of cracked ice & shake

* Dip the glass rim in the crushed sugar

* Strain your luscious peppermint martini into 2 freezing martini glasses

* Add a candy cane in each glass for garnish

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T19:24:00.003-05:00

From the Red Carpet Events we are wishing everyone a very happy and prosperous 2009 filled with laughter, joy and celebrations! The best is yet to come....

Tip of the Month KEEPING POSITIVE DURING THE HOLIDAYS

2008-12-10T22:39:00.004-05:00

Usually our Decembers are filled with holiday parties and cheer, but this year is extremely different. My heart breaks for every phone call I receive with another friend or colleague that has been laid off. Holiday parties have become a thing of the past and it's upsetting to see billion dollar organizations not rewarding their staff (or what is left of their employee roster) with a celebration that costs mere thousands.

This Tip of the Month is just a reminder to all the CEOs, Presidents and Founders to not forget what is important. Giving their employees a reason to celebrate and move forward in to 2009 with a productive and appreciative attitude can make a difference. Don't forget that a happy employee is a loyal one. Despite the current economy and turmoil, let it go for an evening and find a reason to party.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!