KDC Event Planning

Healthy Find!

2009-11-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

While browsing our Twitter Followers, I stumbled upon a great find: http://www.healthy-bride.com/ .

This site is fabulous for many reasons:
1) They are encouraging Brides to be HEALTHY!!
2) Fitness success stories
3) There is a team of qualified experts
4) A Health Bride Blog
AND
5) A Bridal Fitness page with different workouts and programs

The reason this is so amazing is that in today's world, people are so quick to take the "easy route" that they tend to do it the unhealthy way. I think it is great that there are support systems out there that are willing to help you do it the "right" way!

So, cruise on over and check it out: www.healthy-bride.com!

*hugs*
Denice

Bridesmaid Dress Shopping

2009-11-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I embarked on a journey with my sister in law, the Bride to be, to find the perfect bridesmaid dress. This my friends, is no simple task. There are THOUSANDS of dresses out there in hundreds of different colors, lengths, fabrics, styles etc.

So, how do you find that perfect dress? Here are some questions that the Bride needs to consider:

1) How many bridesmaids will I have?
This is important due to how your photos will look

2) What are the size ranges of my bridesmaids?
You need to know this because not every designer has a size "0" or plus sizes

3) What are the ages of my bridesmaids?
If you have younger bridesmaids (under age 16) you need to be sure the dress is age appropriate. Same goes if you have an older bridesmaid.

4) What are the budget restrictions of my bridesmaids?
Make sure that your bridesmaids can afford their dress, as well as accessories, shoes etc.

5) What are the skin tones and hair color of my bridesmaids?
A yellow dress may not look as nice on a pale bridesmaid as it does on a tanner one. Same with the hair, A hot pink dress may not flow as nicely on a bridesmaid with red hair as it does on one with Brown.

6) Do I want a dress that is cut/styled similar to mine?
Do you want it to match the style of your dress or look completely different?

7) Do I want a long dress or short dress?
Keep this question in mind when thinking of your bridesmaids. Will everyone have matching shoes to accompany a short dress? Is it an outside wedding? Consider the climate you are having in as well. A long dress will not go well with a hot, summer day!

8) Will my bridesmaids all wear the same dress?
Some prefer to have the bridesmaids all in the same color, but the style is left to the individual bridesmaid to choose. Some Brides also like their Maid of Honor to be in a different dress than the bridesmaids.

9) What is the season and time of my wedding?
This can be a huge factor in deciding color, length and fabric. Keep the dress in line with the climate and surroundings.

10)What color am I looking for?
Keep this in mind when choosing the colors and theme of your wedding. Make sure the colors you want are available!

Crazy you say? Well this is a shortened list. We could go into so much more detail! I know you are all thinking..."Is it really that difficult?" YES it is! Finding the perfect dress, and keeping your bridesmaids happy is important for wedding day bliss.

I know there are lots of you out there with bridesmaid dress horror stories, and we here at KDC Events would LOVE to hear about them and SEE THE PHOTOS!!! Send them to us at: Events@KDCEvents.com. We will feature your story and photos here!

*hugs*
Denice

Halloween Fun!

2009-11-01T10:52:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday was Halloween and we had such a great day! I love Halloween, it is fun and everyone seems to love getting involved. From the little to the old, Halloween knows no boundaries. People are even using this holiday to get MARRIED!!

I thought I would use this post to share some of the fun ideas I have come across.

My Friend and Sorority Sister Kim, is a huge fan of this holiday. Here are some recent pics of the "Spooky Cuisine" she served at her recent shin-dig:

Her Spooky Appetizer of Deviled Eyes... I mean Eggs & Severed Fingers or Lil' Smokies, and a Main Course of Worm Sandwiches (hot dogs). Thanks Kim for sharing!

Eyeballs = deviled eggs. I just added green food coloring to the "yoke" mix, put a sliced green olive on top and used red food coloring and toothpick to give it the bloodshot look.

Severed Fingers = Little Smokies. Take one package of little smokies and bluntly cut the ends off of them. This will make them look severed. Insert a sliced almond into the tip of the other end so it appears to be a finger nail. Cut 3 slits in the middle of the sausage. When cooked, this will look like a knuckle.

For the Main Course: Worm sandwich = basically hot dogs. Take a package of hot dogs and cut them into long strips. Boil them in water until they start to curl. Toss them in a bowl with ketchup (appears to be blood) and add to the bun. Super easy.

Then, there is always the Carved Pumpkins. People are getting very creative with these, Here are a few:

I also love seeing the creativity that comes out in costumes. I love when I see a homemade costume:

Well, there you go... you now have some fun ideas for next year! Thanks to all my friends for letting me share.

*hugs*

Denice

Photo Credit: Kim, Alyssa, Eileen and Myself!

A Wedding Means Exercise!

2009-10-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, you all know what I am talking about. Your friend or family member ask you to be in their wedding, and all of a sudden, you look like a deer in the headlights...HUH??? Yup, we all do it. We immediately think, "I need to go on a diet and lose weight before this wedding!"

I have a confession...I am currently in this state of mind! My sister in law is getting married in the spring of 2010, and I am desperately trying to get rid of my recently pregnant body! In my search for the perfect diet, easiest exercise plan, best slimming undergarments, I located this interesting web site; FitnessYouWear.com also know as BANGLZ.com.

FitnessYouWear.com was created in 2007 by two stay at home moms (Annie Ilichney and Kimberly Koelle) who were looking for a way to get and stay in shape, amidst their busy schedules. Thus, the idea of fashionable weighted bracelets was born.

FitnessYouWear.com offers the most fashionable exercise equipment yet! They offer two, unique fashion accessories to any woman's wardrobe. One you see and one you don't. Here is how the they describe their products:

BANGLZ are comfortable, weighted bracelets and anklets worn like jewelry all throughout the day. Banglz add a slight resistance to convert your daily routines into daily exercise OR to maximize your exercise time or low-impact workout.

The SMARTSLIP is the exercise superslip that works you out and has an ultra-slim fit all at once! The resistance in this amazing fabric targets the hips, glutes and legs while you walk and move during the day, giving you a lower body workout with each step.

"BANGLZ and SMARTSLIPS are wearable workouts that integrate exercise throughout your usual day."

Sign me up, I am ordering mine today! Hopefully it will aid me in my weight loss journey to my sister in laws wedding!

Oh ya...I one more thing I would like to mention; right now, FitnessYouWear.com is offering one lucky KDC Events reader a free pair of Banglz Wrist Weights!!

Just leave a comment as to how these fashionable weighted bracelets would help aid YOU in your fitness journey. We will choose one luck reader on OCTOBER 31.

Good luck and Have fun! We are looking forward to your responses.

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: FitnessYouWear.com

Martini Theme Reception

2009-10-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

I know, it's been a long time. I forgot how much work was involved in having a baby...and then I had to learn to juggle taking care of my 6 year old, hubby, house and work! Needless to say, I am starting to get the hang of it!

Now on to weddings!

My sister in law is getting married in the Spring and she wants to have a Martini Themed Wedding Reception! SOOOOO, I am looking for ideas! You name it; centerpiece, flowers, giveaways, decorations, signature drink, etc. We need it all.

If you have any great ideas, please SHARE!! If we use your idea, we will feature you here on KDCEvents.com.

Thanks and let the ideas pour in... =)

*hugs*
Denice

Looking for a Cake Stand?

2009-06-09T08:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever looked at the cake table at a wedding and thought, "It's just missing something!" Well I recently received a site that will take care of that problem: RaisetheCake.com

RaisetheCake.com was brought to light by Owner ~ Kathy Jo Peterson. An event planner herself, she saw the need and provided an option.

I highly suggest you check out this site if you have upcoming nuptials, your guests will be thoroughly impressed!

*hugs*

Denice

He's Here!

2009-06-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

So I had the baby on March 20. He is a beautiful, healthy baby. We named him Cooper Gregory Castillo. He is perfect...if only he would sleep!

Now that my life is somewhat returning to normal, I will be returning to writing regular post on KDC!! Thanks for being patient.

*hugs*

Denice

Wedding Question Wednesday...Will Return!

2009-02-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

Please, send us your questions! Wedding Question Wednesday will be returning!

*hugs*
Denice

Birthday Fun!

2009-02-19T19:43:00.001-08:00

Katie and Cindy recently helped with a birthday party for their 13 year old cousin. It was an Alice in Wonderland themed party and it was amazing!! They had card people and a photo op (of course) that was the White Rabbits cottage.

They even had an amazing cake by Alicia! Here are a few photos. I tell you...these two are so creative and amazing!!

Just thought you would enjoy these awesome photos!

*hugs*
Denice

My Baby Shower

2009-02-02T08:06:00.001-08:00

So my best friends out did themselves...again! Katie and Cindy threw me a "Jack" themed baby shower. For those of you who do not know, the baby's name is going to be Jackson, and they made great use out of it!

They hand made Jack-in-the-Box centerpieces with Jack-Jack (from the movie The Incredibles) heads, had Jacks (the game) on the table along with a box of Cracker Jacks for each guest to take home.

My cake was a Jack in the box, and was FABULOUS!! They are so wonderful. The games were even "Jack" themed...Name famous Jacks...person, place, or things...Can you do it??

Thank you Katie and Cindy for making me feel so special. I love you two so much.

(Yes, they made these blocks by hand too! In this pic: Katie, Beth, Cindy, Jacquie, Me and Norah)

*hugs*
Denice

I Won!

2009-01-29T11:38:00.000-08:00

I never win anything, but the other day, I entered a contest on a great site, professional hair care, and I won the $50 gift certificate to Salon Hive!!

I am so excited, I need a new straightener badly!!!

Check out the sites, they are awesome!
http://professionalhaircare.blogspot.com/

http://www.myhairstylingtools.com/

http://www.salonhive.com/

Have a great day, and THANKS AGAIN!!!

*hugs*
Denice

Brides turns 75

2009-01-26T20:18:00.000-08:00

Brides magazine is celebrating 75 years of helping you plan your big day. The Today Show looks at the past 7 decades of bridal bliss. From engagements to the lavish ceremonies, Brides Magazine has covered it all.

Check out the full story at the Today Show on NBC.

Have a fabulous day!

*hugs*
Denice

M.I.A- SORRY!

2009-01-13T16:46:00.000-08:00

OK, so I know we have been M.I.A. It's all this pregnancy's fault...it has been a killer on me. Even though I am at home, I find it very difficult to concentrate on doing anything! I hope to get back on track soon, I promise!

In the mean time, check out these fabulous post by some fabulous bloggers:

Makeup Bag- Barbie Loves Stila

Beauty in Real Life- How to Create A 5 Minute Face

Smooth Heals- The best foot cream ever

Gwendolyn's Gate- for skin care needs

*hugs*
Denice

A 50th Anniversary

2008-11-17T17:46:00.000-08:00

KDC Events helped a very special couple celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. It was a tropical theme, complete with gold fish center pieces and a sunset photo op. Here are some images form the night:

Let us know what you think!

[anniversary]
[events]

Baby Update

2008-10-21T14:39:00.000-07:00

So my doctor took me out of work for a few weeks. I have been having some really debilitating headaches, and my blood pressure is too low. Weird, I know. So, I am at home resting...and I love it. I get to spend time with my son, who is 5, and it is great!

I go for my next ultrasound the first week of November. Hopefully baby cooperates and lets us see if its a boy or a girl. We are thinking PINK!!!

Keep your fingers crossed!

*hugs*
Denice

Baby on Board!!

2008-08-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

Yup, there is a Baby On Board!!! So please forgive the sporadic posting that will occur in the next 7 months. I will do my best, but man...I have been TIRED and a little sick!

*hugs*
Denice

Soutern California Wedding Tips

2008-08-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

Are you looking to get married in the Huntington Beach area? Our friend Leeann, over at Join the Gossip, recently spent a weekend as a Maid of Honor and has some tips. Check out where the ceremony was, and where NOT to buy a dress in the Huntington Beach area.

Thanks Leeann for sharing!

*hugs*
Denice

Do you want to write a post for Beauty Chat?

2008-08-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

Beauty Chat is having a giveaway, and if you win...you get to write the review on it! Stop by Beauty Chat and check out the Elizabet Grant giveaway titled, "Win, Sample, and Write! Elizabeth Grant Products up for one Lucky Guest Beauty Chatter."

The products consist of a 3 piece Vitamin C collection by Elizabeth Grant:
- Vitamin C Day Treatment ($59.99 value)
- Vitamin C Night Treatment ($69.99 value)
- Vitamin C Body Lotion ($39.99)

Hurry on over for your chance to be a GUEST BEAUTY CHATTER!!!

*hugs*

[beautychatblog]

8/8/08 ~ Lucky Wedding Day!

2008-08-08T13:33:00.000-07:00

Many couples are rushing to the alter today to get married. Why? you ask... it's a lucky day! Asians who observe Chinese numerology, feel that the lucky number eight means wealth and prosperity (hence why the Olymipcs are opening tonight).

Also, couples who are not familiar with Chinese numerology look at days like 8-8-08 as a date that is more memorable than others.

So for all you luck one's getting married today, we say CONGRATS!! Please feel free th share your special day with us!

*hugs*

[weddings]
[8-8-08]

Wedding Question Wednesday- Grooms Gift

2008-07-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Today's question comes from Kacie- "When do you give the grooms gift? At rehearsal with everyone else or on the wedding day? If on the wedding day, how do you get it to him without seeing him?"

Here is what I would do: Give it to your lucky guy at the wedding. When Ryan and I got married we had a special moment, right before the ceremony where in the brides room, alone (well sort of, the photographer was there at first) and we got to chat and exchange gifts before the ceremony. This was nice, we were able to get out all the jitters before hand!

If you want to wait, and do it after the ceremony, do it right after, BEFORE the craziness of the photos, and the reception. Tell everyone you want 15 minutes, after the ceremony... alone! Instruct your maid of honor and best man to guard the room so no one bothers you. It is a nice moment for the two of you. It gives you the chance to savor the day and reflect before you entertain your guest for the remainder of the night.

I hope this helps! Let me know how it goes!

[wedding]
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Personal Wine?

2008-07-22T12:49:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am a wineo and I love it. In fact, I love anything that has to do with wine. I find it relaxing and fabulous. So, according to me, there is no better gift for ANY occasion than WINE!

I recently had a chance to pick the brain of Alex Andrawes, the CEO of Personal Wines. Personal Wines is a great idea. Basically, they customize the wine bottle for you and your occasion. You choose the wine and you choose the label! Fabulous...I know!

Here is what Alex had to share with me:

Denice: What was your inspiration for creating Personal Wine?
Alex: I was sitting at a bar discussing cool business ideas with a friend. The idea popped out and we decided to make a run for it. Sometimes good ideas happen best when you are sitting in a bar with a friend!

D: What is the philosophy behind Personal Wine?
A: To pair up marketing gurus, graphics designers and wine aficionados to collaborate on a cool custom wine company. Our philosophy is to give the highest level of customer service teamed up with an excellent wine menu.

D: Can you tell me about a wine lable you especially enjoyed creating?
A: We created one a few weeks back for Oscar de la Hoya for a congratulatory event (boxing). We’ve also just finished up a season wrap for the voice cast of the Simpsons. My favorite orders tend to be orders from the obscure. These would be for memorial services for departed loved ones who have requested wine at their memorial or even a nice touching 50th wedding anniversary. The pinnacle of orders was our first request for a marriage proposal to be on the bottle. What an honor!

D: Do you have any suggestions on ways to preserve and display the wine bottles after the big day?
A: The best way to preserve a custom wine bottle is to keep it from direct sunlight (office or natural home light is fine) and to put it on the shelf. We have packaging like wooden boxes (which we can etch as well) that allow you to safely store the wine in the event that you want to drink it a few years down the road.

D: What are some of the top occassions you prvide lables for?
A: Corporate events (entertainment parties), big corporate deals like mergers, weddings, and golf tournaments.

D: What is your favorite wine and why?
A: My favorite wines are Syrah as it has the highest level of resveratrol, a molecule that scientists at Harvard discovered to have anti-aging and anti-cancer properties. Its also rich, bold and really tannic, which I like. I love wines with a deep and complex body.

So there you have it! YOU NEED Personal Wine for your next event or ocasison! Call them up, check out their web site and blog. Did I mention it's fabulous? Don't forget to mention that Denice at KDC Events sent you!

photo credits: Personal Wine

[wine]

Us...A Preimo Award!

2008-07-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

Leeann over at one of my favorite blogs, Join the Gossip, nominated KDCEvents.com for a Preimo Award! Now it's our turn to pay it forward. Here are some of our favorite reads:

White Iris Designs
House of Raquel

Gwendolyn's Gate

Join the Gossip

Diary of a Personal Shopper

Beauty Chat Blog

The Belli Blog

Show your support and nominate 7 of your favorite reads...is KDC one of them? Love you you all for tuning in! Have a great night!

*hugs*
Denice

Wedding Question Wednesday- Gifts

2008-07-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

I received this question for my co-worker, Stephanie. She asks, "If you are invited to the engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party and the wedding are you required to get a gift for all there events?"

This is a great question Stephanie! I don't think there is a definite yes or no answer, but here are my thoughts.

If you are invited to the engagement party, all that is required is a card! That's it, unless you are the parents, grandparents or sibling, then a little more may be required.

If you are invited to the shower you definitely need to bring a gift, preferably something for the bride or off the registry. Some showers these days are themed, so you know what type of gift to bring.

If you are invited to the bachelorette party, I don't believe a gift is necessary, but usually a gag gift of some sort, OR you can assist in bringing something necessary for the night (ie: drinks, food, etc.)

For the wedding, it is ok, to again, buy off the registry or simply give a gift card or money.

I guarantee in 10 years (heck, maybe even 2), the bride and groom will not even remember what they received as gifts from the showers or wedding.

Just remember, give only with in your means. Do not go into debt supplying the bride and groom with the top of the line blender. Only buy what you can afford.

I hope this helps! Let me know.

Photo credit: Denice's wedding

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Wedding Question Wednesday- On Vacation This Week!

2008-07-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

I am on vacation for most of the week and will return to publishing blogs the week of the 14! Thanks for being patient!

I will be in Carson City, Nevada visiting my sister and her family, and then I am going right in to planning spirit week for my day job at PlasticSurgery.com and BeautyChatBlog.com.

Thanks for bearing with me, I will return with some fabulous posts!

*hugs*
Denice

Wedding Question Wednesday- Did you RSVP?

2008-07-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

Today's question comes form Charlie P- "Is is appropriate to call people who have not RSVP in the time allotted?"

Well, Mr. P, in today's economic times, I we say...YES! With the cost of weddings going up, we feel that it is absolutely appropriate for you to call those guest who have neglected to RSVP and give their "Yay" or "Nay".

One idea I (Denice) had received while planning my own wedding was to number each response card and then place that corresponding number on my guest list. That way, if a card was returned to me with no name, I knew who it belonged to, and I could weed out the ones who did not RSVP. I did end up calling those individuals who did not RSVP, and believe it or not, there were quite a few who "thought" they sent in the response card or said they did, but it was lost in the mail.

I will say one thing, I ONLY think it is appropriate to call family or very close friends. I do NOT think it is appropriate to call co-workers, acquaintances or other invites that are not close to you. If you did, it may come off as rude or pushy.

If you need etiquette help, I recommend checking out:

http://weddings.about.com/od/invitations/a/replycardwordin.htm
http://www.hitweddings.com/article/roles-for-guests/
http://weddiquetteblog.com/

Since this is such a touchy subject, we would like to know your thoughts... please share!

Photo credit: my wedding!

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