What does “No occasions is too BIG or too small to be BLESSED!” mean?

It simply means that if life has given you a reason that YOU feel is worth celebrating than CELEBRATE!  If it’s party for 200 or a private party for 2 it can’t be too BIG or too small. It is just right for YOU!

What can you do to make my event special or unforgettable

You, the individual make your event special or unforgettable. Event planners are just here to help you bring it all together. First of all and most importantly be realistic about what you really can afford.  An event requires some form or type of financial support.

If you really want to shake things up add a theme or an activity to your event. If you are considering a theme it can be your favorite movie, your favorite place or hobby. Your event is already special, that’s why you are celebrating.

I would like to have a nice wedding but I know we really can’t afford it.  Is it possible to still have a nice wedding for less than the average cost?

Absolutely! Couples can celebrate their day at every possible budget level.  The average cost of a wedding today (2008) is roughly around the mid to upper $20,000. Don’t let that scare you or count yourself out of the game. Again, you MUST be honest with yourself about what you really can afford. You don’t want to go into a marriage in debt because your wedding day has to out shine the family member or friend whose wedding was before yours.

The beauty of a wedding ultimately has nothing to do with how much money is spent. It is the creativity, thoughtfulness and chosen details that will add so much more to your celebration of LOVE. I recommend that if you can, open an account that has ATM/Debit card capabilities.  Put all of your money into this wedding account even if you are pulling from your personal savings. Keep the money for your day separate and in one place.  You can do this for any type of event that you are planning. This will help you maintain a clear and more précised view of your budget.  It will also keep you from dipping into your regular “Bill Pay” accounts and coming up short when it is time to pay the bills.  The bills don’t stop after you say “I DO”

Besides don’t lose site of the purpose of your wedding day. It was LOVE that brought the two of you to a crossroad that you decided to be united as one. The marital bliss that will be shared your wedding day is priceless.

My husband and I decided to plan a party that I wanted to have for years. I do not get along with my step-daughter AT ALL!  Is it wrong not to include her in the activities? I really want to enjoy the party?

This is touchy! You need to share your strong feelings with your husband about your step-daughter participating in the activities. I’m sure he is very aware of the awkward relationship that the two of you have. Remember that she is HIS daughter and you need to be open to his response. You should also prepare to face the music if necessary. He may want her to be there.  

It sounds like you are really excited about your event, why let one person ruin it for you. You and your step daughter will not be dancing together. You’ll be too busy entertaining your guest which should keep you busy enough to stay clear of her. Your husband loves the both of you please don’t make him feel like he has to take sides. Not only should you use proper etiquettes but also be the strong women that you know you are. Be the bigger person and stand high above your step daughter with dignity and enjoy your party.

How do you accommodate an event that has one side of the family that are “Party Goers” and the other side of the family that are Bible Carriers?

First of all remember that this is YOUR event. When compiling your guest list invite those that will enjoy it with you. If you are really worried about hurting people’s feelings you may want to consider planning your event in two parts. The first few hours can be a social/non-alcoholic cocktail type hour then its party time for those that want to party.

If you are planning a wedding and your reception is going to have that same theme of a party, you can pretty much do the same. Invite your “Bible” carriers to only the ceremony if you think they will clash with the “Party” goers. If it is important that they are apart of your entire day then have a designated time in which alcohol will be served and the party music will be played.