PinkSwanEvents.com

Candy Buffet Services

2012-04-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

(Prices are subject to change)
Candy Buffets are great for Sweet 16, Weddings, Mitzvahs, Album Release Parties, Children's Parties, Engagement Parties, or any type of function to add a spark to your event.
Prices have increased 4/1/12 for the Full Service Buffet's
*Packages start at $5.95 per person, with a $300 minimum*

We have over 50+ candy choices from Jelly Bellys, M&Ms, Gumballs, Kosher Candy, Sugar Free Candy and many more!
Email us to request our Candy Packages.
Add cookies, cupcakes and macaroons for a tasty treat!

CANDY BUFFET JAR RENTAL OPTION
(Refundable $100 insurance deposit required)

Fly Away Swan Rental ($99-$200) + tax & delivery
At $99.00 you can rent the candy jars which includes 5-14 jars with scoops and tongs.
At $150.00 for 15-35 Jars with scoops and tongs.
You provide the candy, decorations, linen, and table.

Most popular rental option
Candy Buffet in a box
$200.00 + tax & delivery
You rent the candy jars, scoops, tongs which would include two (2) basic white table linens, and one (1) five or six foot table and we design the candy on-site in the appropriate jars based on the candy you purchase.
The candy & decorations are purchased separately by you.
Add a ribbon upgrade for $35.00
(includes 3 ribbon colors for the jars and scoops and we put them on the jars and scoops for you).

We provide the candy starting at $5.95 per person
Our package includes every aspect of the Buffet

Tablescape design
All Candy will be provided
Basic White Linens (upgraded linens available)
Scoops and tongs with ribbon accents
Ribbon accents for each embellished tag and jar
Goody bags for guests to select their own variety of sweets
Card-stock tags designed for each candy type
Rental for assorted apothecary & assorted jars in various sizes

Here’s is the Sweet Scoop
We arrive 1-2 hours prior to the event for set-up and immediately after the event for tear down. At the end of the event, any leftover candy is yours to keep and everything else comes back with us.

***You must book 30 days in advance at a minimum for standard rates**
**60 days for Fully Custom Buffet Orders**
Any days below that will incur a Rush fee.
We can make anything happen for you………..

We book in advance; therefore the display is not planned or created until about two-three weeks prior to your event. It takes time to prepare your candy buffet and print out each custom candy tag for the containers and cut every ribbon accent. You can certainly express your interests about the buffet and tell us what you are looking for. We also ask you to send a piece of fabric or email us the colors of your event, so we can best match the decor.

Find out from your venue if they allow outside vendors to cater to their facility. We also need space for a six foot table, plus have a six foot table for the display. We also require a two hour minimum set up time prior to the guest’s arrival. Larger groups will require a second table. You can provide the table or rent one from us. Be sure to notify in advance of this requirement.

Once your date is confirmed, you will need to pay your non-refundable booking retainer fee, which is one-half of your total balance in order to secure and confirm your date. Your remaining balance must be paid 14 calendar days prior to your event set up.

Get Nostalgic with your buffet: (pricing based on quantity needed)
Halvah Products, Wonka Nerds, Giant Sugar Daddy’s, Whirly Pops, Unicorn Pops, Smartie Pops, JawBreaker Pops, Pez Candy, Chocolate Band-Aids, Candy Necklace, Imported Cadbury Bars, Hippa Bars, Happy Hippo Bars, Galaxy Bars, Valomilk & Bounty Bars, Million Dollar Bars, Hazelnut Kit-Kats, Leon’s, Tea Bon-Bons, Pop Bar’s, and Godiva Pearls.

Other Candies Choices:
Rock Candy Swizzle Sticks (Various Colors), Candy Buttons, Bubble Gum Cigars, Necco Wafers, Turkish Taffy, Chuckles, Tootsie Roll Bars , Heath Bars, Clark Bars, Oh Henry Bars, Mallo Cups, Look Bars, Taffy Bars, Baby Ruth, 100 Grand, Sky Bars, Rocky Road Bars, Twix, U-No Bars, Broadway Licorice, Licorice Pipes, Panda Licorice Bars, and Carnival Barrel Pops.

Extras for your Candy Buffet: (ask for further details and pricing)
Your candy buffet can be further personalized with numerous extras – from Candy or Caramel apples, large letters for your guest of honors initials, to adding movie-theater sized boxes of candy and cupcakes. We will work with you to help find the extras to insure your candy buffet is a big hit!

Custom Candy Bags ($3.00 per bag):
The custom candy bags are a hit! The clear bag would include traditional multi-color candy filled with candy, ribbon accents with drawstring or twist tie, and custom sticker on each bag. A variety of candy will be offered for you to select from. This option is a great way to reduce your cost, while still offering yours guests something sweet.

Contact us today

Wedding Services

2012-04-10T07:35:00.003-07:00

Planned right, a wedding is truly the most unique way to commemorate your special union. Pink Swan Events specializes in Wedding Coordination, so our main focus is your wedding. Read about our Green wedding resources. We are now booking for 2012 and 2013.

Book and save! Prices are subject to change

Levels of service
Bridal Shower Planning starts at $395
Day Of Wedding Coordination $695-$1200
Timeline Creation Services $200
Wedding Consulting Services $185
Rehearsal Coordination Only
Full Service Wedding Planning
Reception Coordination
Month Of/Partial Planning Services
Destination Weddings

Our pricing is truly tailored to your wedding. Your investment is for our knowledge and experience. We can't wait to meet and discuss your wedding day!

Contact Us

2012-04-10T07:34:00.001-07:00

Pink Swan Events
{Ring} 1-888-714-7413
{Local} 240-706-Plan(7526)
{Write} Info@PinkSwanEvents.com
Serving DC, VA, MD , NY and other areas
http://www.pinkswanevents.com

Pink Reception Decor

2012-04-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

Contact Pink Swan Events to turn your event into the design you been dreaming about!

Wedding Planning Basics: 10 Biggest Wedding Planning Blunders to Avoid

2012-04-10T07:07:00.001-07:00

Click here to read the full article

Chocolate Rasberry Lindtini Recipe

2011-11-01T14:03:00.001-07:00

Ingredients:

3oz (90ml) Raspberry vodka
2oz (60ml) white crème de cacao

Garnish

Lindor Raspberry or 60% Dark Truffles
Fresh Raspberries

Method:

Chill the vodka and crède cacao.
Chill 2 martini glasses.
Put the vodka and crème de cacao into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake and pour into the chilled martini glasses.
Add truffle and a fresh raspberry.

Yield:

Makes 2 Servings

D.C. community calendar, Oct. 27 to Nov. 3, 2011

2011-10-26T07:54:00.000-07:00

Poetry conference, scholars host a two-day celebration of Robert Penn Warren. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday (with a 5 p.m. reading) and Friday, Catholic University, Caldwell Auditorium, 620 Michigan Ave. NE. Free. 202-319-5488.

“Tony D,” focusing on the relationship between Antonin Dvorak and communist politician and musicologist Zdenìk Nejedly. 11 a.m., Kennedy Center, Millennium Stage, 2700 F St. NW. Free. 202-467-4600.

Building dedication, Mayor Vincent C. Gray (D), D.C. Council member Tommy Wells (D-Ward 6) and John M. Thompson, director of the D.C. Office on Aging, will formally open the agency’s new headquarters and the Hayes Senior Wellness Center; followed by tours, health screenings, and cooking and fitness demonstrations. 11:30 a.m., 500 K St. NE. Free, reservations requested. 202-724-5622.

Author event, biologist Joan Maloof discusses her book, “Among the Ancient: Adventures in the Eastern Old-Growth Forests,” about her tours of 26 U.S. woodlands and their vital link to human survival. Noon, U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. Free, registration required. 202-225-1116.

“The Surprises About Leonard Bernstein’s ‘On the Town,’ ” a lecture and performance by Library of Congress archivist Mark Horowitz. 12:35 p.m., Catholic University, Ward Recital Hall, Room 211, 620 Michigan Ave. NE. Free. 202-319-5416.

“Independent Inventors” symposium, for entrepreneurs, industry leaders, government officials and successful inventors to discuss the importance of intellectual property protection, how to make great ideas commercially viable and how innovation and entrepreneurship can help lead nationwide economic recovery. 1-7 p.m. Thursday; 8:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Friday. Smithsonian American Art Museum, McEvoy Auditorium, Eighth and F streets NW. Free. 202-633-1000.

Lace-making demonstration, Chesapeake Region Lace Guild guidance on technique and an examination of related item from the museum’s textile collection. 1 p.m., National Museum of American History, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. Free. 202-633-1000.

Trio con Brio Copenhagen, students from the National Symphony Orchestra Youth Fellowship Program perform Debussy’s String Quartet in G minor, Op. 10, and discuss possible interpretations with the trio; audience feedback welcome. 3 p.m., Kreeger Museum, 2401 Foxhall Rd. NW. Free, reservations required. 202-337-3050, Ext. 10, orwww.kreegermuseum.org.

Autumn leaves scavenger hunt, for age 3 and older, a National Park Service ranger leads a half-mile hike along the Woodland Trail loop. 4 p.m., Rock Creek Park Nature Center, 5200 Glover Rd. NW. Free. 202-895-6070.

“About Sacco and Vanzetti,” historian David Ward discusses the anarchists who were convicted of murdering two men during an armed robbery in Massachusetts in 1920. 6 p.m., National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and F streets NW. Free. 202-633-1000.

Reception Ideas: 5 Money Saving Alternatives

2011-10-16T06:44:00.000-07:00

Are you looking to preserve your budget but still have an amazing celebration for your wedding day? Here are five alternative wedding receptions that are fun to incorporate into your wedding planning, but won’t break the bank.

Barbecue—Guests will be delighted to celebrate your wedding with this fun-loving party. You can celebrate casually with traditional fare including ribs, chicken and potato salad, or dress up your barbecue with grilled tenderloin, and chicken kabobs.If you are in a location that permits fire pits, consider preparing s’mores for dessert and hire an old-fashioned storyteller for post dinner entertainment.

Dessert Reception—If you love dessert, nothing would be sweeter than to invite your guests to join in a decadent dessert wedding reception. Make sure you have your ceremony later than the regular dinner hour and be sure to indicate on your invitation that the reception is desert only.

For something really special, have a chef attended cherries jubilee, bananas foster or crepes Suzette station. These are all less expensive alternatives to a full dinner. For a bit of whimsy, add a “make your own sundae” bar. Serve coffee, cappuccino, espresso and tea to accompany the desserts. By avoiding alcohol, you will save a lot of money, but no one will miss the open bar with a wonderful coffee station.

Breakfast Wedding Reception —Are you an early riser? Celebrate your nuptials at sunrise and follow up with a planned breakfast reception. Traditional breakfast items can be supplemented with some fun “action stations” like omelet stations or pancake stations. Give oatmeal a new twist and have your chef create an oatmeal creme brulee. You can limit your bar by doing mimosas and kir royals. If you can put a bit more money into your reception, a Bloody Mary station is great fun. Guests are given the traditional Bloody Mary, but on the station there are all sorts of things your guests can put in their drink like blue cheese stuffed olives, shrimp,scallops, celery, and sour cream.

Mexican Fiesta Wedding Reception —A Mariachi Band or Flamenco guitar will likely get your guests dancing, and if that doesn’t work Tequila cocktails certainly will. For the cocktail hour, have a salsa and guacamole bar. Offer your guests steamed shrimp, boiled egg,chopped red pepper, chopped cucumber, chopped tomato, chopped onion, diced chicken and tomatillos to customize their guacamole. Entrees can include traditional Mexican favorites from childhood like tacos and burritos. Adding a rice dish is also an inexpensive and filling option. Don’t forget the Mexican Wedding Cookies!

Picnic on the Lawn Wedding Reception—Fill up beautiful picnic baskets with breads, cheeses, fruit and a bottle of wine per couple. Give each guest a checkered blanket and have them layout on the lawn. You can plan for a harpist or string quartet to add to the mood. For an even greater dollar stretching idea, give the baskets away as your wedding favor!

Remember, most often, breakfast costs less than brunch or lunch, and dinner is typically the most costly. Some locations may offer discounts for off-peak times like Friday or Sunday or times during the day other than dinner.

Free Holiday Events in the Washington DC Area

2011-10-15T08:13:00.000-07:00

The Washington DC area has numerous ways to enjoy the holiday season for free! See a guide to free light displays, musical performances, community parades and special events in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia. Mark your calendar and get in the spirit of the season.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies Around the Region
Various Dates. Christmas tree lighting ceremonies are a great way to kickoff the holiday season with family and friends. Find free holiday events in Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Holiday Magic at the Botanic Gardens
November 24, 2011 through January 2, 2012. During the holiday season, the U.S. Botanic Garden presents "Holiday Magic", a unique exhibit featuring model trains and incredible replicas of Washington, DC's most famous buildings and monuments.

National Hanukkah Menorah
2011 Date and Time to Be Announced. A National Hanukkah Menorah is lit on the White House grounds, at the Ellipse during the eight day Jewish holiday. Festivities at the lighting ceremony include musical performances and hot latkes and donuts. This year's celebration will feature the US Air Force Band. The menorah will be lit each night of Hanukkah.

ZooLights at the National Zoo
November 25-December 11 (Friday-Sunday nights) and December 16, 2011-January 1, 2012 (every night except December 24, 25 and 31), 5-9 p.m. FREE for the first time this year! The National Zoo presents a seasonal display of thousands of sparkling animated lights, winter-themed crafts, ice sculpting demonstrations, choral groups, and storytellers.

Festival of Lights at the Washington, DC Mormon Temple
2011 Dates and Times to Be Announced. The Washington, DC Church of Jesus Christ of Latter–day Saints, also known as the Mormon Temple, is open to all during the Christmas season. This impressive church and its surrounding grounds shine brightly with more than 450,000 sparkling Christmas lights. Each night, a different local musical group performs a live concert in a state-of-the-art theater.

Bethesda's Winter Wonderland
December 2-3, 2011. The community holiday celebration features a variety of entertainment and performances, a live ice sculpting presentation and a visit from Santa Claus.

Manassas Christmas Parade
December 3, 2011, 10 a.m. Old Town Manassas. See amazing floats, local celebrities, live performances, marching bands, equestrians, animated characters, giant balloons, and Santa at the Manassas Christmas Parade. The parade route begins at Mathis Avenue and concludes at the intersection of Center Street and Grant Avenue.

Middleburg Hunt Christmas Parade
December 3, 2011. Approximately 100 horses, riders in red coats and dozens of hounds come through the town of Middleburg. Immediately following the Hunt, the Middleburg Christmas Parade features a unique assortment of floats, marching bands, local community groups, antique fire trucks, and a variety of animals including horses, llamas and dogs.

Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk
December 3, 2011. Hundreds of Scottish clansmen march through Old Town Alexandria with their bagpipes in a traditional holiday parade. Also participating are pipe and drum bands, Scottish dancers, re-enactment groups, Scottie dog groups, dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus.

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
December 3-4, 2011. A favorite holiday celebration in both Old Town Alexandria and Washington, DC. Festively decorated pleasure boats light up the sky along the Potomac River including 50 powerboats, sailboats and the District's fireboat, the John Glenn spouting water 70 feet into the air.

Merriment in Georgetown
2011 Date and Time to Be Announced. The street festival showcases the neighborhood’s fashionable boutiques, specialty stores and popular restaurants with a full schedule of live entertainment followed by the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Boat Parade of Lights.

Wolf Trap Farm Park Holiday Sing-A-Long
2011 Date and Time to Be Announced. Sing Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with the United States Marine Band vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area. The audience is invited to bring candles to light during the last verse of "Silent Night," the final song of the program. There is also a 'Jing-A-Long' during the singing of Jingle Bells, so bring a bell along with your candle. Admission is free and no tickets are required.

National Christmas Tree
2011 Dates and Times to Be Announced. The National Christmas Tree and the Pathway of Peace is illuminated during the holiday season each evening from dusk until 11 p.m. Seasonal displays include a Yule log, a large-scale model train and a Christmas manger. Musical performances by volunteer choirs and dancers are held nightly on the Ellipse stage. Tickets are required for the lighting ceremony.

Leesburg Holiday Parade and Festival
2011 Date and Time to Be Announced. Catch your Christmas spirit and bring the whole family to see Santa and his friends parade down King Street, through the heart of historic Leesburg.

Annapolis Christmas Lights Boat Parade
December 10, 2011. The Annapolis community celebrates Christmas in style with the Eastport Yacht Club Parade of Lights, an annual holiday tradition with boat owners showing off their Christmas light decorations through the Annapolis Harbor.

Waterskiing Santa
2011 Date and Time to Be Announced. National Harbor, MD. This unusual annual event features a water-skiing Santa, flying elves, the Jet-skiing Grinch, and Frosty the Snowman performing on the Potomac River. Join in the Sing-along.

Wedding food trends in 2011

2011-10-15T08:09:00.001-07:00

One of the most important parts of wedding planning is deciding on the food you're going to serve. From the hors-d'oeuvres to the dinner to the wedding cake, picking food that's unique, delicious and satisfying can be quite the task. Wedding planner Josh Gurvitz of Indianapolis recently spoke to the Indianapolis Star about the trends he sees emerging for wedding gourmands in the coming year.

Gurvitz suggests that soon-to-be-wed couples decide on a theme for the food of their wedding. Whether it's high-brow French cuisine or down-home picnic fare, sticking to a motif can lend some continuity to the meals that your guests enjoy.

"From a traditional New England clambake to a spicy Southern barbecue, theme-wedding menus create a fun, exciting, and memorable event," Gurvitz explains. "It might even be the way you eat the food that stays in your guests’ minds - cracking crabs at a Maryland riverside wedding, nibbling satay at a Thai-inspired city garden reception, or one of my faves was roasting marshmallows over a bonfire at chic Zionsville (Ind.) wedding."

As for the dessert, Gurvitz notes that specialty wedding cakes and unique takes on wedding classics - like wedding cupcakes - are all the rage these days.

"Blame it on the popularity of 'Top Chef: Just Desserts,' 'Amazing Cakes' and 'Cake Boss,' but cake bakers and pastry chefs are churning out incredible desserts and wedding cakes with gourmet flavors and haute style," he told the paper.

Four couples were able to get hitched for free

2011-10-15T07:50:00.001-07:00

Four couples from Long Beach, California, were able to finally say "I do," after waiting a long time. All of the brides and grooms had been trying to save up for a wedding for years to no avail, until their church offered them a solution, according to the Los Angeles Times.

When the Parkcrest Christian Church announced it would throw a wedding for people living together who were not married, four couples signed up. All four brides walked down the aisle to her husbands-to-be, as they each were able to say "I do" in front of family and friends.

The church is considering doing this again, as they believe that if the only thing holding two people getting married is money, than they will take care of that, the media outlet reports.

There are a number of couples who have been planning a wedding for a long period of time, but have not yet been able to afford the ceremony. Companies across the country recognize this issue, and many have developed wedding giveaway contests for brides and grooms. DressesShop.com just announced that they will be giving away a $300 wedding dress to 84 brides. The contest involves hopefuls producing a video that describes why they should win.

Picking out the perfect wedding band for the groom

2011-10-15T07:45:00.001-07:00

When it comes to planning a wedding, it seems as if a lot of attention is on the bride - what beautiful wedding dress she will wear or what will her hair look like? However, it is important to not forget about the groom seeing how it is his special day as well. There is one thing that both the bride and groom take from the day that stays with them for years afterwards - the wedding ring. So, brides should take a little extra time while picking out the perfect band for their soon-to-be husband.

There are tons of different types of wedding bands including gold, silver, platinum, tungsten, titanium, cobalt, palladium and seranite. This way, no matter what the style of a groom-to-be is, the bride is sure to find the perfect wedding band to give to him on their big day.

There are various stores across the country that specialize is only men's wedding bands. One retailer, Mens-Wedding-Rings.com, recently released a new jewelry line of men's bands that have diamonds spread out around the band, which creates a timeless design.

WeddingWire Acquires ProjectWedding.com Leading wedding technology company continues rapid growth through acquisition

2011-07-11T12:48:00.000-07:00

Published: Monday, 11 Jul 2011 | 6:00 AM ET

BETHESDA, Md., July 11, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, announced today that it has completed the acquisition of ProjectWedding.com, one of the top five online destinations in the wedding industry. Project Wedding, formerly a wedding property of eHarmony, Inc. and network partner of WeddingWire, is one of the fastest growing wedding communities in the US, providing wedding ideas, inspiration and advice for engaged couples.

"The WeddingWire team is thrilled to welcome Project Wedding to the WeddingWire family of brands," says Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. "This acquisition joins together two of the largest online wedding properties. For our local and national advertisers, we now offer significantly greater reach and scale. For our engaged couples, we will continue to invest in the unique and thriving communities on both properties." Over 1 million brides and grooms visit Project Wedding each month to interact with the supportive community, read curated editorial content and find the best local wedding professionals. The acquisition of Project Wedding continues the rapid growth of WeddingWire's digital footprint, which includes leading wedding planning sites, social media applications and mobile offerings.

"WeddingWire is an innovative leader in the wedding category and will continue to make Project Wedding a valuable resource for brides who want to find the best local vendors to make their wedding days memorable," says Greg Steiner, eHarmony's President and Chief Operating Officer.

For more information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

Read more at: http://www.weddingwire.com/press-center/press-releases/2011/weddingwire-acquires-projectwedding.html About WeddingWire, Inc.

WeddingWire(TM), the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 100,000 reviewed wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers. WeddingWire also offers a comprehensive suite of online planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire is the only all-in-one marketing platform for businesses online and on-the-go. WeddingWire offers one simple solution to build a professional network, improve search visibility, manage social media and reach mobile consumers. Businesses that advertise with WeddingWire appear on WeddingWire.com, ProjectWedding.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com, Weddingbee.com and Celebrations.com.

About Project Wedding Project Wedding(TM), part of the WeddingWire(TM) family of brands, is a full-service wedding planning destination, enabling brides to plan their special wedding day through online tools, tips, expert advice, and inspiration. The site's popular wedding photos, dress galleries, real weddings, wedding songs, and forums inspire more than 1 million brides and grooms every month. Project Wedding's free, exquisitely designed wedding websites and tools, including an online RSVP, customizable checklist, and online registry, help make planning the big day easier and more enjoyable than ever. Advertisers find a premium platform for reaching a targeted bridal audience in a trusted, elegant setting through Project Wedding and the broader WeddingWire family of brands.

SOURCE WeddingWire, Inc.

Former US Rep. Patrick Kennedy to wed this weekend at family compound on Cape Co

2011-07-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Former Rhode Island Rep. Patrick Kennedy and his fiancee plan to be married this week at a private wedding ceremony at the Kennedy family’s Cape Cod compound.

The 43-year-old Kennedy will wed New Jersey school teacher Amy Petitgout (PET’-ah-goo) on Friday at what Kennedy’s spokeswoman says will be a small, intimate event.

Kennedy is the son of the late Massachusetts Sen. Edward Kennedy. He represented Rhode Island’s 1st Congressional District as a Democrat for 16 years. Since leaving Congress in January, he has been named a visiting fellow at Brown University and has campaigned to improve brain research.

The wedding will be closed to the press. It’s to be held at the Kennedy compound in Hyannis, Mass. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is set to officiate.

Free Summer Events in DC Tri-State Area

2011-07-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

The group continues to be one of the most exciting and innovative in the local jazz scene.

Elikeh - July 22 at National Gallery of Art

Another standout from the surprising fertile local Afropop scene.

Bill Kirchen and Too Much Fun - July 28 at Frying Pan Park

The King of Dieselbilly is a guitar hero.

Tom Principato - July 31 at Baker Park

The blues guitarist trades licks with the best of them.

The Barkays - Aug. 6 at Fort Dupont

The Stax Records soul/funk favorites are down to one original member, but they’re sure to delight the fans at Fort Dupont.

Virgin Mobile FreeFest - at Merriweather Post Pavilion

We’re not sure what the date will be for the annual free mega-concert. But we do know it will be back and we have some guesses as to who will be playing.

Chuck Brown - Sept. 23 at Woodrow Wilson Plaza

What better way to wrap up the summer than with a free concert by the Godfather of Go-Go?

Capital Fringe Festival

2011-07-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this sign

at the festival?

We want you to know

more about Capital Fringe.

In the 2010 Fringe Festival Audience survey 80% of our Audience did not know that Capital Fringe is a non-profit & that we give a percentage

of our ticket revenue back to the artists in the festival - in five years we have given back over $1 million dollars.

Get to know us!

Have questions ask a Fringe Staff person or a volunteer.

We all would love to talk to you more about Fringe!

Consider donating to us. We would love to have you be a part of our family.Every gift amount is so appreciated and critical to our success. We promise that your contribution will go directly into our year-long work of making the District an explosive performing arts destination and developing artists now and into the future.

visit:http://www.capfringe.org

For More information

"Marry Me for Free" at Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten

2011-06-22T14:50:00.001-07:00

A free Caribbean wedding is the best gift of all with Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten’s “Marry Me for Free” package.Groups book 10 rooms (for five nights or more) to get a wedding ceremony plusreception on the house! Choice of Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, the island’s nightlife hub or Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino, a serene white-sand haven. Valid through December 2012.

“Marry Me for Free” room rates for Sonesta Maho begin at $195 per night and for Sonesta Great Bay at $156 per night.

Couples are cordially invited to RELAX. Wedding coordination is dutifully handled by the resort’s in-house pro. Weather worries are cut to a minimum, as the Caribbean typically promises warm weather and sunshine, plus stunning photo backdrops.

Beachfront, barefoot and backed by a loving handful of friends and family, the happy couple can say “I Do” amidst a relaxed Caribbean vibe. The “Marry Me for Free” packages at Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten include:

• Room discount

• Ceremony venue (cliff-side gazebo, beach,function room)

• On-site wedding coordinator for one hour

• Officiate

• Open bar during event

• Customized wedding reception/dinner (basedon package selected)

• Custom wedding cake

• Sparkling wine toast

• Suite upgrade for bride and groom

• Signature Sonesta Champagne Flutes (forbride and groom)

• 10% off of services at SonestaMaho’s Good Life Spa

• Welcome gift for bride and groom

• BONUS - 50% off stay (room-only) forcouple’s one-year anniversary

Resorts handle official marriage license, documentation charges, stamp duties and translation of documents. Offer must be booked through Sonesta Wedding Sales. Rates are subject to 21% tax and service charges. Subject to availability and blackout dates.

To book your “Marry Me for Free” package to Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten or to receive more information, visit www.Sonesta.com/StMaartenor contact Wedding Sales’ Coordinator Andrew Rippel at 718-544-1100, arippel@mahobeach.com.

Miraval Resort with the "Bachelorette" package

2011-06-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

With wedding season upon us, women everywhere are looking to plan the perfect bachelorette party for their beloved bride-to-be.Miraval Resort in Tucson, the country's leading destination spa, is offering the opportunity to skip the anxiety filled trip to Vegas and instead indulge in three relaxing consecutive nights at Miraval Resort with the "Bachelorette" package. Whether you are a future bride hoping to unwind before the big day or a Maid of Honor looking to plan a lavish and healthful bachelorette getaway, Miraval is inviting women to visit the award-winning spa in Arizona and luxuriously prepare for upcoming nuptials. Preparation will include treatments to promote beaming skin, fitness and nutrition experts to support overall wellness, and group activities ranging from the Quantum Leap, which the bride will take with her future husband, to Passionate Lives: Learning how to Enhance Sexuality, a course fun for friends and certain to turn up the honeymoon heat.

Upon arrival, all members of the wedding party will receive a complimentary bathrobe perfect for relaxation, complete with embroidered titles such as Bride-to-be, Sister of the Bride, or Bridesmaid. Over the course of three days, guests will experience unlimited access to all of Miraval's signature scheduled activities and classes, and one complimentary spa service ranging from a stress reducing massage to a radiance enhancing facial.

Selecting the Right Reception Venue

2011-06-17T10:02:00.001-07:00

Consider Your Guest List, Budget & Personality

Choosing the right wedding reception venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make—it sets the tone for the whole affair and is what most people will remember long after the big day.

Knowledge is Power
Unless you’ve been married before you probably aren’t aware of the options right at your fingertips. It wasn’t until my friends started getting married that I became aware of the ubiquitous wedding venues spread out all over my hometown. Ask friends, family, and search online. Make a weekend out of it with your fiancé and visit the venues on your list.

Comfort Comes First
Before you visit any of the venues on your list, make sure they will comfortably fit your wedding guests. Only search for small wedding venues if you’re having an intimate affair, and a larger space if you’re expecting one hundred plus guests. Intimate weddings often take place at the home of the bride’s parents. If your parents' home fits your criteria, then consider that an option.

Be Creative
Why not choose a venue that’s fun and fits your personality? As long as the venue fits your budget and will comfortably fit all of your guests and wedding vendors, then you are free to choose the inside of a barn or the rooftop of a swanky downtown hotel.

10 Designer Wedding Gowns For $500 Or Less

2011-06-16T05:46:00.000-07:00

Check out this Article!!! ....... Vera Wang for $399.00. Wow.....

10 Designer Wedding Gowns For $500 Or Less

By Lydia Dishman, Forbes.com

Vera Wang Bridal Gown at Bridepower Retail

Most women only dream of walking down the aisle in a wedding dress byVera Wang, Monique Lhuillier orAlexander McQueen, but with deep discounts available from Internet retailers, consignment stores and sample sales, scoring a designer gown is one dream that can come true.

“It can absolutely be done,” says Jamie Savarese, cofounder of Bride Couture, an online bridal boutique. “You just have to be smart about where you look.”

In Pictures: 15 Designer Wedding Gowns For $500 Or Less

More from Forbes.com

Women At The Top

Great Escapes From Modern Life

Most Extravagant Weddings

Celebrity Goods Go Virtual

Brides spend an average of $1,075 on their bridal gowns, according to a 2009 survey by Brides.com, about the least one can normally pay retail for a tulle-layered Vera Wang number, which can go for anywhere from $1,000 to $25,000 and up. Alexander McQueen, famously worn by Kate Middleton as she wed Prince William, can range from $3,000 to the tens of thousands.

One way to find those kind of star-caliber gowns on the cheap is by scouring consignment shops and sample sales. Each year, bridal salons purchase between 6 and 16 wedding gowns of a designer’s latest collection in a variety of sizes. The salons then use these gowns as samples to show brides-to-be, explains Erica Dingman, cofounder of Bride Couture. In time, the salon may choose to sell dresses in a sample sale at drastically reduced prices—sometimes 50% to 70% off—if the style is discontinued or to make room for new inventory.

Consignment gown sales offer similarly discounted rates. These businesses act as middle men, providing storefront space for individual sellers, while collecting a percentage of the gown’s purchase price. Consignment dresses are often previously worn (if you count wearing the dress once for your wedding as “worn”) but almost always required to undergo professional cleaning before being resold. Just like new and at a fraction of the original retail cost.

A cursory web skimming should also yield a plethora of second-hand or sample gowns. Armed with the style number of a dress you fancy (a code found on most price tags), you can seek out the best deals on that particular piece. Or just peruse by key words. A recent search for discount Vera Wang unearthed a rhinestone-embellished gown at Bridepower Retail for just $399—92% off the original design house price of $5,000. Likewise, eBay searches frequently turn up auctions for Monique Lhuillier and Carolina Herrera gowns with affordable bidding ranges in the low hundreds.

Bargain gown not the size you’re looking for? Keep in mind that dresses can be sized up or down a few notches by a professional seamstress. A nip in the waist and adjusting the length can be just enough to make a good deal go the mile. Just be sure to confirm with a tailor that the dress is made of material that can be altered to fit before you buy it. In order to get a good look, Linda Lightman, proprietress of Linda’s Stuff, encourages brides to buy from sellers who accept returns. “We have a generous return policy that allows buyers at least a full week to decide if they wish to keep an item or not,” Lightman says.

Brides can even get some return on investment after the wedding—if they’re willing to part with the dress. Lightman offers 75% of the sale price for items that sell for more than $1,000. One other way to put a little cash back in the bank when the big day is over.

Vera Wang at Bridepower Retail

(Photo at top left)

Retail: $5,000
Selling Price: $399

Vera Wang opened her flagship boutique in New York City's Carlisle Hotel in 1990 and went on to become a wedding fashion icon. Her collections are synonymous with sophisticated drama and feminine detailing.

Reem Acra at Bridepower

Retail: $3,500
Selling Price: $499

Acra's bridal collections can be found in some of the most exclusive retailers around the globe. Her following includes Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Beyonce Knowles,Catherine Zeta-Jones and Eva Longoria as well as royal families the world over. Since 1997, her wedding designs have become known for their ethereal quality, elegance and impeccable construction.

Carolina Herrera at Bridepower

Retail: $5,000
Selling Price: $499

A 2008 winner of the Council of Fashion Designers of America award, Herrera's become world-renowned for both ready-to-wear and bridal collections that evoke simple elegance and classicism. This A-line silk strapless gown with figure-flattering black lace insets on either side of the waist is signature Herrera without the hefty price tag.

Vera Wang at Linda's Stuff

Selling Price: $199

Wang designed the bridal gowns Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson wore in the film "Bride Wars" but some stars selected Vera Wang for their walk down the aisle in real life including: Mariah Carey, Jennifer Lopez,Victoria Beckham, and Sharon Stone. The bead-frosted waistband above the full bell skirt of this gown is much like the Wang gown Chelsea Clinton wore at her July wedding last year.

Paula Varsalona at Linda's Stuff

Selling Price: $199

Internationally recognized as one of the premier couture designers of bridal apparel, Varsalona has been in the business for more than 35 years. Grey's Anatomy'sChandra Wilson wore Varsalona when she snagged the 2007 SAG award for best actress.

Badgley Mischka at PreOwned
WeddingDresses.com

Retail: $1,000
Selling Price: $495

Mark Badgley and James Mischka have been hailed by Vogue as one of the top 10 American designers while earning a loyal following among celebrities including Julia Roberts, Madonna, Helen Mirren andQueen Latifah.

Nicole Miller Sheath at PreOwned
WeddingDresses.com

Retail: $550
Selling Price: $400

A long-standing member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, Nicole Miller created designs that were celebrity red carpet picks by the likes of Angelina Jolie before they became bridal gowns. Miller's impeccable draping and bias-cut tailoring can be bought for a steal.

Lazaro at PreOwned
WeddingDresses.com

Retail: $2,350
Selling Price: $500

Cuban-born bridal designer Lazaro is best known for blending vintage details, floral embellishments and hand-beading. Lazaro's hallmark craftsmanship combined with sumptuous fabrics gives this strapless gem of frothy tulle an haute couture feel.

Alexander McQueen at Little Fashion Treasury via eBay

Retail: $3,975
Selling Price: Best offer

Kate Middleton famously chose a design from the house of Alexander McQueen for her celebrated nuptials to Prince William. This 100% silk gown with cowl neckline, plunging back and original "smoke" print is from the late designer's 2009 collection. Bidding on eBay can snag a dress for much

4 Marriage-Boosting Tips For Newlyweds

2011-06-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

You just spent a year planning the wedding of your dreams. You donned a gorgeous white dress, straightened your bowtie, walked down the aisle, said your 'I do's', smeared wedding cake on your face, toasted with champagne, thanked family and friends for an assortment of kooky gifts, and rode off into the sunset to live happily ever after.

Now what?

After the whirlwind of a wedding, most couples are happy to just get back to normal life, but according to Terri Orbuch, director of the landmark Early Years of Marriage (EYM) project, there are specific behaviors a newly married couple need to adopt.

Based on the research of 373 couples who were interviewed and observed over the course of 24 years, she has learned what makes marriages healthy, strong and able to be maintained over the long haul.
1. Know your partner's expectations.
Knowing your partners expectations is essential to a healthy marriage, even more so than having the same expectations. Sit down with your partner and each of you write down your top two marriage expectations. Exchange lists and discuss. This exercise will let you know what's important to your spouse.

2. Be interdependent with your partner.
When both partners are interdependent socially, emotionally, and financially - that is, what one partner does, feels, or has affects the other - it's predictive of both short- and long-term marriage happiness. Having separate friends or interests is great; keeping them always separate is not. Also, making aspects of your life your sole concern - such as money or work issues - is not healthy and will lead to trouble down the road.

3. Do sweat the small stuff.
It is the small annoyances, not the large ones like illness or job loss, that erode marital happiness over time. For example, if you don't like that he leaves his socks around, don't ignore it. Instead, talk about it by telling him how it makes you feel. If you don't like that she buys household items without consulting you, let her know why it upsets you. If you don't sweat the small stuff, you're more likely to be unhappy later on.

4. Acknowledge and address gender differences.
Couples who are aware of gender differences typically have an easier time in the relationship. For the wife, relationship talk is an aphrodisiac, but for men, it's a turnoff! Women remember details of arguments for 2-3 days; men move on from conflict almost instantly. Wives don't need compliments as much as husbands do because they regularly get affirmation from people outside the home. Men, however, crave affirmation (compliments, small endearments) and need it most from their wives. Recognizing gender differences will allow you to understand each others reactions and learn new ways to deal with situations.

Applying these simple behaviors as a new couple will ensure that you create a happy, healthy, long lasting marriage.

What are your happy marriage secrets? .....( Something to think about )

Wedding Photos: Picture Perfect Locations

2011-06-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

The Arboretum has the perfect mix of nature and architecture. (Photo by Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post)

After spending all that money on the dress and the hair and the makeup (among other things), there is only one thing left to do: make sure you never forget how good you looked on your wedding day. Hence the importance of wedding photos. And couples aren't just going to the chapel for pictures, they're heading to other locations before or after the ceremony. The Jefferson, the Lincoln and the Mallare obvious choices for great scenery; here are a few of our picks for photo options off the beaten path.

Although a lot of D.C. has a decidedly urban vibe, it isn't hard to find a little greenery. At theArboretum alone there are 446 acres of picture-appropriate locations to choose from. The azalea collection would certainly make a nice backdrop as would the grove of state trees. Or add a little architecture to the mix by heading to the curved archway of the Chinese moon gate at the bonsai museum or the freestanding Corinthian columns that once lined the east portico of the Capitol.

In search of a more aquatic backdrop? Hains Point, the tip of land where the Potomac and Anacostia rivers meet, offers a mix of views, plus lots of trees and grass. For an only-in-D.C. feel, take photos at theTidal Basin, but if it's anytime near the Cherry Blossom peak, get there super early, unless of course you think tourists would perfectly complement the wedding party.

If a background with a view of the city is important, your first stop should be Netherlands Carillon. On a hill nestled between Arlington Cemetery and Iwo Jima, the bell tower that was a gift from the people of the Netherlands is not the only interesting site. Face away from the carillon and capture a perfect view of the Mall, the Potomac and Memorial Bridge. After that head down GW Parkway to either Gravelly Point or Lady Bird Johnson Park, where the views of the Washington skyline are at their most impressive.

If you appreciate the urban landscape and want to capture some of the D.C. architecture, I can only begin to scratch the surface. Both the colonnade facade and the arched interior of Union Station could spice up some photos, while the starkness of the Temple of the Scottish Ritewould make an interesting contrast against a seafoam green wedding party. Better yet, head to Kalorama and take photos at the Spanish Steps where 22nd dead-ends off S Street. While the D.C. version isn't quite up to the caliber of Rome's, this little-known gem lined with flowers and tucked away behind a cul-de-sac is one of the more romantic spots in the city.

One other thing to note is that in May, the Park Service began charging anywhere from $50 to $250 for wedding photos. Rumor has it that the new policy isn't being strictly enforced, but it's definitely something to keep in mind.

Rock Of Ages Event DC

2011-06-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl met a big city rocker and in LA's most famous rock club, they fell in love to the greatest songs of the 80s." It's Rock of Ages, an arena-rock love story told through some of the greatest hits of the 80s including "Don't Stop Believin'," "We're Not Gonna Take It," "I Want to Know What Love Is" and many more."

National Theatre
1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (Between 13th and 14th Streets)
Washington DC 20004

07/11/2011 - 07/24/2011

Purchase Tickets Here

Celebrate Fairfax Festival

2011-06-10T06:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, here you go!!. I brought you the information here.... ;-).

Celebrate Fairfax! Festival
SAVE THE DATE: June 10 - 12, 2011
Fairfax County Government Center

Festival Hours: Friday 6pm-12am, Saturday 10am-12am and Sunday 11am-7pm

2011 Headliners!

The 2011 headliners have been announced for the Bud Light Main Stage. Friday, June 10th performing at 8pm will be Third Eye Blind. The Bangles will perform on Saturday, June 11th at 8pm and Sunday, June 12th The Legwarmers will be performing at 4:30p.m. For more information or to purchase your tickets, visit our Entertainment page.

Advance Ticket Sale

Are you ready to make your summer plans? Vacation in your own backyard where family fun costs less! Celebrate Fairfax! Festival tickets are now available online! Tickets will go on sale at Wegmans Fairfax beginning May 9th. For more information or to purchase your tickets, visit Buy Tickets.

Greenology

The newest signature program at Celebrate Fairfax!, Greenology educates and motivates guests on leading a greener life. Incorporating green science, and featuring highly interactive activities, educational exhibits, and eco-friendly presentations, Greenology strives to create a more sustainable Fairfax County. And beyond! To learn about how your company can become involved, visit: Greenology.

Exhibitor & Crafter Applications Now Available

Applications for exhibitors, crafters and vendors are now available for the 2011 Celebrate Fairfax! Festival. For more information about exhibiting or to download an application, visit the exhibitor's page. To download an application or for more information about the new and expanded Crafts Market, visit the crafter's page.

The Performing Artist Deadline for Submissions Is Now Closed

We are no longer accepting submissions for the 2011 Celebrate Fairfax! Festival. To submit your band for the 2012 festival, visit our SonicBids webpage at:http://www.sonicbids.com/CelebrateFairfax in early December 2011. If you have already submitted for consideration for this year's festival, please be patient as we are reviewing more than 1500 submissions and will begin the booking process shortly. If you are selected, you will be contacted directly. Thank you!

Great Family Programming!

Celebrate Fairfax! offers more than 25 acres of fantastic family entertainment. For more information, visit our About the Festival Page or view the drop down menu Festival Programs.

How to make a sewing pattern out of existing clothing

2011-06-10T05:47:00.000-07:00

What you will need:

an iron
cork board
pattern or graph paper
push pins
tracing wheel
ruler
pencil
scissors

STEP ONE:

First, iron the clothing. Then, lay it out flat on a cork board. Put your pattern paper inside the article of clothing. You can buy actual pattern paper, but I prefer graph paper. The graph helps me line things up, add seam allowance, etc. If you use graph paper, you will need to tape a few sheets together.

STEP TWO:
You will be working with one panel at a time. Smooth the panel out flat, but don't stretch it! Pin it to the cork board, with the graph paper underneath.

STEP THREE:
Next, trace over the seams with a tracing wheel. Don't worry about seam allowance. We'll add that later. You will need to press hard with the tracing wheel.

STEP FOUR:
When you are done, unpin the clothing and remove the paper. You will see that the tracing wheel made little dots on the paper. Now we play connect-the-dots! You might need to use a ruler to get straight lines.

STEP FIVE:
Then, make any modifications, like extra length, etc. Don't worry about seam allowance yet. Take notes on the pattern so you remember what is what.

STEP SIX:
Add your seam allowance — half inch should be fine.

IMPORTANT: Make your side seams two inches wider than your new pattern calls for, to allow for alterations. Copying a pattern is not an exact science, so you need to make allowances for imperfections. It took me three tries to learn this important lesson, and it seems so obvious in retrospect.

STEP SEVEN:
Repeat the above steps for all remaining panels, and you have your pattern!

STEP EIGHT:
Cut your fabric, and you're ready to go!

If your pattern is a bit complicated, I recommend making a trial run with scrap fabric. You don't have to worry about pockets, decorations, etc. Just run through the basic steps and make sure everything fits before you cut your good fabric.

PinkSwanEvents.com

Candy Buffet Services

Wedding Services

Contact Us

Pink Reception Decor

Wedding Planning Basics: 10 Biggest Wedding Planning Blunders to Avoid

Chocolate Rasberry Lindtini Recipe

Ingredients:

Garnish

Method:

Yield:

D.C. community calendar, Oct. 27 to Nov. 3, 2011

Reception Ideas: 5 Money Saving Alternatives

Free Holiday Events in the Washington DC Area

Wedding food trends in 2011

Four couples were able to get hitched for free

Picking out the perfect wedding band for the groom

WeddingWire Acquires ProjectWedding.com Leading wedding technology company continues rapid growth through acquisition

Former US Rep. Patrick Kennedy to wed this weekend at family compound on Cape Co

Free Summer Events in DC Tri-State Area

Capital Fringe Festival

"Marry Me for Free" at Sonesta Resorts Sint Maarten

Miraval Resort with the "Bachelorette" package

Selecting the Right Reception Venue

10 Designer Wedding Gowns For $500 Or Less

10 Designer Wedding Gowns For $500 Or Less

Vera Wang at Bridepower Retail

Reem Acra at Bridepower

Carolina Herrera at Bridepower

Vera Wang at Linda's Stuff

Paula Varsalona at Linda's Stuff

Badgley Mischka at PreOwned WeddingDresses.com

Nicole Miller Sheath at PreOwned WeddingDresses.com

Lazaro at PreOwned WeddingDresses.com

Alexander McQueen at Little Fashion Treasury via eBay

4 Marriage-Boosting Tips For Newlyweds

Wedding Photos: Picture Perfect Locations

Rock Of Ages Event DC

Celebrate Fairfax Festival

2011 Headliners!

Advance Ticket Sale

Greenology

Exhibitor & Crafter Applications Now Available

The Performing Artist Deadline for Submissions Is Now Closed

Great Family Programming!

How to make a sewing pattern out of existing clothing

Badgley Mischka at PreOwned
WeddingDresses.com

Nicole Miller Sheath at PreOwned
WeddingDresses.com

Lazaro at PreOwned
WeddingDresses.com