Nothing But Perfect Advice

I always strive to be the ultimate hostess.  I LOVE having people over, having some appetizers, drinks, and entertaining. It's absolutely top 3 favorite thing to do in my life.  However, since my income is less than adequate (I'm talking lottery amounts here, folks!) I don't have a chance to always keep things on hand,  just in case someone drops by, or plans change.  

I was reading on Thoughtfully Simple the other day, the solution to my problems!! I also added some of my own opinions and additions!

1. Always keep 2 bottles of red wine and 2 bottles of white wine on hand. 

You'll always have something to serve your guests. Plain and simple, entertain is keeping the belly full and tongue from being parched! Now, if you're going to be a guest in my abode, I will probably not offer the white wine - I have very little love for white wine.  It's too sweet! Most white wine drinkers I know will also drink red wine if need be.  I'd also suggest keeping a 6-pack on hand as well (something domestic).  Some people just prefer beer to wine.  This way, if a couple or couple of friends stop by, there really is something for everyone.  This being said - keep a couple of water bottles handy at all times.  People always want to quench their thirst, and you can always throw it in a nice tumbler with ice cubes to make it ice cold!

2. Keep ingredients on hand for simple appetizers.

I wish I was able to follow this one better.  My cooking skills are limited.  However, I am slowly inching my way up the foodie ladder (thanks Pinterest!).  Martini Kabobs are easy enough, and keep well (olives, prosciutto, cocktail onions).  I also would suggest keeping sour cream, mayonnaise, and a dip packet to mix in, and that's easy enough - since more likely than not, you have chips and crunchy veggies to dip on hand as well.  Not necessarily the most fancy of appetizers, but certainly works in a pinch! Who doesn't like chips and dip? 

3. Keep Supplies like cocktail napkins on hand and invest in a simple set of cocktail plates. 

Yup. Paper Towels don't exactly scream, "I was totally ready for you, and I'm not grasping at straws to accommodate for you". Something like cocktail napkins/plates say, "These might seem relatively formal, but I'm classy like that. No you didn't put me out at all!".

In my world, I follow this every day.  However, in real life, I don't keep wine on hand - because I'll find a reason to drink it.  I don't keep too many ingredients on hand - because it generally goes bad before I use/eat it.  I don't have cocktail napkins on hand because I hate to spend money that I shouldn't spend on non-absorbent, functional things. It's not a perfect world, but I sure do dream in one!!

Happy Week before Turkey Day! :)

Job Hunting Organization Madness

I'm currently hunting around and looking to be inspired by all things parties. It feels so great to be excited and get my slightly-congealed blood rushing again!  

My night tonight consisted of job, whether full or part-time, hunting.  In event planning, the industry is really all about who you know and where you've been.  Being new to a city, with very little experience in the Big D, I've been struggling to find a way to do what I want and love to do.  The other day it came to me like a light bulb! I've got to start. I've got to start over, and bite the bullet.  I do have the luxury of having a job already - and I am aware and realize how very blessed and lucky I am to have one! With this, I also have the luxury to go out and really find something that suits me, and do something I love and am passionate about!  

So, what were my exciting plans this evening?

And how did it end?

With my little doggie on my lap, and full organization mode well squared away.  Sometimes I am ashamed of my organization binges, sometimes I am proud.  I am pretty proud of this one! I divided up the ads and listings in the magazines by: Event Planners & Companies, Hotels, Event Venues (other than hotels), and Other Vendors.  I really think this is a great start and I am really looking forward to the progress I hope to see with this.

My optimism is at an all time high right now.  Don't steal it away from me! :)

Have an amazing weekend, y'all! I know I am pretty super excited for my weekend! 

Short, Sweet.

I know I've been MIA for awhile.  I'm well aware.  Can I blame it on my job?

Yes, for those of you who didn't know, I am recently employed (FINALLY!) with a wonderful company, planning events.  It may not be weddings, but to be frank, I've never really had any desire to plan wedding events, until after I'm married of course!  It would make me cynical (moreso than I already am), and too analytical about something that I've always dreamed of for myself!  I can't wait to plan my own wedding, and don't want to be "soooo over" Gerber Daisies, or nauseous at the sight lace and ribbons by the time that day comes!

Anyways, I love what I'm doing, and loooooove my new company - it's the most fun I've had working in a long time! I really can't get enough, even though it takes a lot out of me!  I'm finally working with guests, helping them plan their events, and (hopefully) making everybody happy and having fun with their events!! :)

That being said, very little time is being left for my blog.  I still have tons of ideas, and find wonderful things all over the internet by amazing and fabulous bloggers.  It's just being able to formulate focused thoughts on the ideas that seems to be my problem!

I found this wonderful picture, and just felt the need to share it with the world because I'm in love.  Don't get me wrong, I love Gerber Daisies.  They will always be the flower the melts my heart! however, these roses are just skyrocketing on my list of favorite, straight from no where! Probably helps that they are pink...