Love is in the details

I'm often asked why I specialize in charity fundraisers and personal celebrations.  The answer is simple... and complicated.

I've planned so may types of events in my career, from small holiday parties in the homes of clients, to large corporate rallies, to intimate weddings, to money raising non-profit galas.  Through the years I've noticed that what I do best, and what sets me apart, is tell the story I tell in the event.  I love getting to know a client and learning about how the anniversary couple met, or what the non-profit does for our community, or what the birthday girl always wished she could be, and then creatively putting special touches in the event that tell that story.  Big or small, I love a good story, and love to tell it through parties.

When planning your next event, try it out.  Think about what the story you want to tell is.  What is the one thing you want your guests going home learning, and what is the one emotion you want your guests to go home feeling?  Try to stick to just one or two because the message will get lost if there is too much clutter.  Next think about your event and what small details can be tailored to that message.  For instance, if you are planning a golden anniversary party for a couple who have prided themselves on the family they've created, try centerpieces that are family trees, or table names after the different great-grandchildren.  For a sweet 16, don't just plan a party, but dedicate the party to her goals or interests.  If she loves photography, put some of her art blown up on the walls, create a photo studio corner, with a backdrop and an umbrella light, or unroll some undeveloped film roll as decoration.

This is what I love to do, I could go on for hours and hours about it, but that's what makes my events memorable, when the guests all feel something and learn something about the subject.