Swoon-worthy Local Honeymoon Getaways

You’ve planned a romantic honeymoon getaway for after your wedding, The tickets were booked and the room reserved. The champagne would be cold and the nights would be HOT! Looking forward to the tropical paradise was the cherry on top of your big day plans. Then…CoVid hits. The reservation portal was closed and the tickets canceled. I know, It sucks, but don’t fret my pet because I am here to give you a light at the end of the tunnel. I have compiled a list of beautiful and romantic getaways that are just miles away from your front door.

Let’s check out these spectacular local(ish) honeymoon getaways!

Beautiful Beaches (Perfect for Late Spring and Summer)

Daufuskie Island, SC

Photo Credit: Islandpacket.com

Full of beauty and the charm of the Gullah/Geechee culture, Daufuskie Island is just miles from the coast of South Carolina. The Island, while it only has an approximate surface area of 8 square miles, is big on its historic mark on the world. The island is actually on the National Registry for Historic Places due to the Gullah culture and Civil war history. Daufuskie is split into 5 parts: Haig Point Club and Melrose Resort are the private, members-only side of the island. Bloody Point is semi-private, and following up we have Oak Ridge and the Historic District. It’s a quick ferry ride from the shoreline and with sparkling beaches, relaxing spas, and amazing nightlife it’s sure to amaze your senses.

Hilton Head Island, NC

Photo Credit: marriott.com

It's called “America’s Favorite Island” for a reason. I remember coming to Hilton Head as a teen with my family on a mini-vacation. Seeing all the happy couples riding bikes on the beach made me want to get a bike too! I learned later that was not what they were smiling about LOL. It was so relaxing, and as a teen, if I had a good time doing nothing but chilling on a beach with the ‘rents it has to be an outstanding place. Hilton Head Island is more upscale than your average beach location. One of the most popular hotels on the island is The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa. Nestled right on the white sandy shoreline, enjoy spacious rooms, private beaches, and 4 on-site restaurants. Not to mention, guest access to Port Royal Golf and Racquet club for those who like to play. Yes, luxury at it's finest!

Majestic Mountains (Perfect for Late Fall and Winter)

The Smokey Mountains, TN

Photo Credit: tnvacation.com

Imagine this. Snow-covered mountain views, a log cabin with a cozy fire crackling, and some spiked apple cider with your love. This is totally doable, and less than 3 hours away in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The Great Smokey Mountains can be as secluded as you want it to be, or as lit as the city is a short drive from most of the rental cabins in the area. The hubs and I went with a big group of friends just after we were married and had a blast. Enjoy the quaint country stores, hiking to some stunning waterfalls, and of course, and finish of the day with a dip in a hot tub in the evening as most of the mountain cabins have them. It’s another great way to warm up at night. 

Highlands, NC

Photo Credit: The Seasons in Highland

Also known as the “Aspen of the South”, this little luxury town is only 2 hours north of Atlanta. Southern Living Magazine has Highlands listed as one of its Top 5 Small Town Getaways and I could not agree more. It’s the ultimate mountain experience, surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest at an elevation of 4118 feet, so the views have got to be breathtaking! Enjoy some retail therapy in town, trail hiking, and top-rated fine dining. I’ve never been, but researching has definitely got me thinking to visit soon. 

Year-Round Romance

Savannah, GA

Photo Credit: Explore Savannah

My absolute favorite place to go at any time! It’s my Husband’s birthplace, and we visit at least 4 to 5 times a year. The Historic District has homes dating back to pre-civil war, and it was the only major city in Georgia that Gen. Sherman didn’t burn on his march through the south. With its moss-covered trees lining surface streets and cobblestone roads on River Street, Savannah is a sight to be seen and it’s just 3 hours southeast from Atlanta. What we like to do on our trips down is head to Tybee Island Beach during the day to lay out and relax, and at night hit up the local restaurants and bars in Ellis Square. You have the best of both worlds in one area. I love it!

Chattanooga, TN

Photo Credit: The Best Chattanooga Nightlife

A surprise of a good time was had in Chatt-town! It was our first wedding anniversary, and we had just completed the first of many stages of our home renovation. Homeowners will definitely understand. We decided to take a local trip and save money, to celebrate. I can’t begin to tell you how much I was blown away by the great time we had…but that’s the point of this blog, so I will do my best. We stayed at the Read Hotel, which is a Historic Hotel located in the heart of the city. The hotel’s charm was over the top, it even had a relic in the lobby. A phone booth with an old school rotary phone (20 Somethings and under would DIE! LOL)! We ate at some amazing restaurants and bar hopped in the city all night. In the morning, we drove through the mountains and looked at the spacious private homes in the area that overlooked the Tennessee River. It was so wonderful with the backdrop of changing leaves. If you have a day, I urge you to check it out and see for yourself. It’s only an hour northwest of Atlanta!

Photo Credit: Pic of the Hubs by Amaris Taylor

OK, so now you have my “can’t lose” list for local romantic getaways! If you live near or around Atlanta there’s no need to fly to any of these places, just gas up the car and pack a bag. This is only a short, condensed list meant to pique your interests about what’s nearby. Take time and look around the net, you never know what wonderful locations await right outside the city. At the end of the day, it’s about you and your spouse that’s all that matters. If you like what you’ve read, give us a like and share this blog on your socials. If you’re getting married or have an event you need to have planned, be sure to contact us today for a free consultation.

Until next time!

Keep it Chic,

XOXO

Amaris T.

Average Cost of Weddings and Events In Atlanta or Austell

*Insert dramatic music* Dun-Dun-DUUUUUUN!!! Yep, let’s talk pricing folks. This is a subject that many people are afraid to discuss when looking for someone to plan their wedding, anniversary, or corporate celebration.

When I do get asked, I always try to find the best way to answer this question because the response isn’t so basic. In its simplest form, the best way to price an event is all about the hired professional’s specialty, their time in the industry, venue style and location. Also we need to know what your budget is and the type of event you're throwing. Honestly there are very different details from one event to another, and piecing the parts together is no simple task.

Essentially, you are looking to hire someone to pull off an event that expresses your feelings about a specific occasion in celebration form. Talk about complex! There’s so much more to this answer, so for the sake of this blog I will try to break down these 4 points to give you a better perspective on why a planner sets their pricing the way they do. Also we will attempt to explain why pricing may be different from planner to planner. 

Photo Credit: Asad Photo Maldives from Pexels

Venue Style and Location - $10,000

We have all heard the expression “There are three things that matter in real estate, location, location, location!”  This can most definitely be applied when looking for that perfect event venue. Depending on location and amenities the venue offers, the national average for wedding venues are around $10,000. 

Selecting the wrong venue or the wrong location can impact the look and style of your wedding or event, your budget, vendor availability, guest count, you name it! I always ask clients during our consultation if they are dead set on an area they first mention to me.  There is always a strong possibility that if I look 15 to 20 minutes in any direction I can get them a lower price, because venue pricing can fluctuate from zip code to zip code.

The venue style is very important when planning out the event you're having. Although most people do think about a particular area where they want to get married, sometimes the venue style isn't available in the part of town you like. The venue literally sets the stage for the show, and allows you to design the wedding or event look you’ve been dreaming of. As an example, if you love a classic look you wouldn’t have your wedding or event in a barn. If you’re boho chic, your first choice wouldn’t be a modern hotel. It also prevents more work from your design team, and more savings for you because a lot of elements that they would use for the design should already be in place if you pick the right venue. So if you like a modern industrial, the venue will more than likely have exposed beams and edison lights, and will add to the theme you’re going for.

I live in the Metro-Atlanta area and the city is super popular for events with the skyline and nightlife. It's this reason why pricing will be higher in the city limits, and 90% of the time planners are aware of venues close to the area you want to be in for less.

Knowing your estimated guest count will also help you determine the size of the venue needed for your celebration. A good question to ask the venue is what size/type of tables and chairs are provided for the space so you know how many can be seated. Knowing that ahead of time will help you see how the space will be laid out for seating charts. Most venues will have a floor plan available to see how they would arrange the room to accommodate the number of guests you intend on inviting. Also, ask about pricing on days like Fridays or Sundays because even though those days are considered weekends, they are less popular than the forever coveted Saturday. You may get a better deal for those days if you're willing to bend a bit on the date.

Photo Credit: Jeremy Wong from Pexels

Event Type and Budget - $10,000

No two events are the same, and that goes without saying about weddings. Anniversaries, corporate events, birthdays, and other general celebrations (as I like to call them), unless they are cultural (Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Quinceaneras), don’t typically deal in the intricate details like a wedding. For the most part the initial formula is the same...venue, entertainment, catering. However, the devil...or should I say the stress level, is in the details. Needing a Day-of Coordinator alone to help manage a wedding day is a clear give away that planning for your big day won't be like your average event.

The national average cost for a wedding runs around $35,000 and in my area in GA, the average cost is about $32,000. I won’t say everyone will spend that money for their wedding but it’s not an average for nothing. General events can run anywhere from $3,000, $10,000 and can fluctuate lower or higher depending on how extravagant you want to be. To plan a wedding  you need an average of 8-12 months. Even with that amount of time it's a possibility you still will have issues (Think Murphy’s Law), but the more time you have to prevent them the better. With your general events, 2-3 months is sufficient time depending on how extravagant you go.

Other factors you’ll need to consider is other vendors. For example:

• Florists, who can charge $1,000 to $10,000 depending on your event.

• Decorators who bring your table linens and other decor can start around $2,000.

• DJ’s Can start their pricing at $1000.00 for wedding s because they do a lot song changes and announcements during the ceremony and reception.

• Catering’s cost average can begin at $25.00 per head , and this is also depending on the type of event you’re having, and the menu selected.

Outdoor weddings and events can be beautiful, but the additional factors like landscape and weather can create a visual nightmare when planning your special day. Your planner will make sure you have a “plan B” at the ready just in case inclement weather occurs. You may be thinking “Well that’s just common sense!” I’d like to let you know that common sense ain't always common, but we planners understand that you get swept away in the possibility of forever *insert romantic music* and can’t think of everything that we think about on a daily basis.

An outdoor event may require special permits to run generators and other equipment in order to pull off an event successfully. Depending on the city you reside in, that can start at $50.00 to $500.00 or more depending on the venue and the equipment needed. There’s also liquor licenses that may need to be in hand for special events if the venue you’ve rented doesn’t have one. Please make sure you or your planner knows the county law, and has proof that the venue has a liquor license, or if they are a “B.Y.O.B.” style location. These additional factors need to be considered when creating your budget.

Photo Credit: Agung Pandit Wiguna from Pexels

Conclusion

Each planner in the industry specializes in a particular event realm, and although we may dabble in different types from time to time, we all have our faves. Some planners really enjoy general celebrations like Baby/Bridal Showers because they are smaller and more intimate.

Some planners specialize in the super luxe weddings with the large guest counts, upgraded linens, and 7 course meals. The national average cost for a wedding planner is around $1,500, and general event planners charge around $1,000 depending on their time in the industry.  I really want to emphasize that there is a distinction between specialties, and no one event planner in the same specialty is the same.

So when you look at pricing, make sure you are getting what you need out of the hired pro, and what you want for your event. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about what their pricing entails, and how hands on they will be. There’s a lot of scheduling involved, appointments to make, and contracts to review. For a wedding they will, more than likely, also be handling the Day-of Coordination as well and that will be inclusive of cost. Knowing that there are many more details when planning a wedding, it's expected that you’ll pay your planner more than you would for other events. 

Should you need more info please feel free to contact us. More than likely we planners already have pricing calculated for the style and celebration you want, but rest assured, whatever your event, a good planner will be worth every cent!

Until next time!

Keep It Chic

XOXO,
Amaris

5 Balloon Decor Ideas for Your Next Atlanta Party

Who said balloons were only for kids?

Not me! I love balloons for all types of events, and they can really liven up a room. If you a party coming up soon, you’re in luck because I am here to introduce you to Oscar Baker, Co-Owner of Lou & Lee Events and Designs in Atlanta Georgia, and he is totally an expert at this craft. We sat down to talk about 5 of the most popular balloon designs that are sure to make your party POP...get it...because balloons!

You knew I was going throw in a corny joke!

1. Balloon Wall:

I loved hearing Oscar’s excitement when we first spoke about joining me on this blog topic! It’s ironic that this was the first design I asked him about, because balloon walls just happen to be his favorite. “Balloon walls totally transform spaces, and make a mood!”. Balloon walls can serve as a main focal point for an event, like art work or a backdrop for pictures. Using a balloon wall to push a theme is HUGE, like baby showers, bridal showers and kids parties. They can also act as a barrier to hide spaces you don’t want your guests to see. I loved this one with it’s earthy toned colors and floral accents! Definitely a show stopper!

Photo Credit: Lou & Lee Events and Designs

2. Oversized Balloons:

When we say oversized we are talking about the big boys! Oversized balloons can go from 24-36 inches around in size, and Oscar likes to use these to add dimension to a space. His suggestion is to concentrate on a color palate when using oversized balloons. Following a flow and family of colors that complement each other is the key. “Dress them up with confetti on the inside, or wrap tulle around them on the outside for a classier look.” He also likes to attach them to garlands and or a balloon wall for a grander effect. They are also great for filling that corner or area in a room that you just don’t know what to do with. I agree, because all space is an opportunity for design!

Photo Credit: Ali Express https://images.app.goo.gl/q3WkCtHyXdKXAbJU7

3. Metallic Balloons:

I would have to say these are my favorite, so much that I even talked about metallics in my very first blog. I asked Oscar why he felt these were becoming so popular. He says “Metallics are eye catching! Clients like them because they are elegant and expensive looking, but they aren’t as expensive as you think.” He follows up with the fact that they are a more expensive style of balloon to buy, but if you have the money to upgrade to metallics DO IT! Oscar says that these balloons are the only style that he would approve for weddings, although he is not a fan of using balloons for such occasions. Formal events like proms, and anniversary parties use this look because their reflective surfaces brighten dimly lit areas. Metallics are definitely on the rise (there I go again LOL), and don't be surprised if you see them in more places.

Photo Credit: Balloon Elegance https://images.app.goo.gl/pV8jVCmBwG74arxf9

4. Balloon Garland:

I asked Oscar about his opinion on balloon garland kits from Amazon. Should we use them? Are they worth it? He says “I only do organic balloon garlands, because I can make them more free form, and I can manipulate them in any shape. I’m not stuck to doing one style with the pre-packaged designs”. Even though he doesn’t use store/online bought garlands, I think we both agree if it’s your first time doing a garland then the pre-packaged ones are a safe bet. If you like the look of them, overtime you'll have more fun designing your own. He loves working with garlands because “They can be continual with no stopping point, and they can carry an event on their own.”. I thought that was cool because with garlands there’s really no rules, and that helps make designing stress free. 

Photo Credit: Lou & Lee Events and Designs

5. Balloon Columns:

Up until Oscar and I sat down to discuss balloons, I thought columns were the easiest design to do. In my mind all I needed to do was blow them up, twist them together, and add them to a column form or a pole. I was surprised to learn that columns are actually the more structured of the designs, and take more time due to the detail. The balloon sizing has to be uniform for the look to be right, and if not it can look messy. Oscar and I are both members of a popular Facebook group for folks in the event industry. I asked him about the poles that people in the group frequently buy to make their columns and does he do the same. “I actually make my own, because then I can decide how tall I want them to be!” I loved hearing about how creative he was when customizing columns for his clients. He suggests to use them to frame entryways and treat tables. He also uses them to hide beams or load bearing poles that could be in awkward positions in event spaces.

Photo Credit: Lou & Lee Events and Designs

CONCLUSION: Do’s, Don’ts and FYI’s:

I asked Oscar if he could give some tips to my readers about using any of these balloon decor ideas at their next Atlanta or Austell event, and here’s some gems he left me with:

DO

• Remember to be patient.

• Have fun with it, and get creative!

• Follow his online class on Facebook to learn how to do popular balloon designs! 

DON’T

• Substitute quantity for quality. Don’t buy cheap balloons!

• Don’t draw attention to mistakes, just cover them with props like flowers, party hats, toys, or whatever goes with your theme.

FYI’s

Here’s the best places to buy balloons and where to use them

• Good: Dollar General - Indoor Events Only

• Better: Walmart and Party City - Indoor and Outdoor Events

• Best: Balloons.Online (Sempertex Brand) - Indoor and Outdoor Events

I want to thank Oscar for all the information he shared with me! Talking to him about his craft is so much fun, and he is someone I hope to work with in the future! To connect with Oscar and Lery with Lou & Lee Events and Designs, email them at LouAndLee2017@gmail.com and follow them on social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok.

If you have any questions about how to incorporate balloon decor and other designs at your next Austell or Atlanta Georgia event, contact us.

Until next time!

Keep it Chic,
XOXO
Amaris Taylor

Top 3 Event Furniture Rental Companies in Atlanta

Let’s talk about event rentals people! You’re sitting down working with your planner (preferably it's me *wink*) on your next event, and you're going over the look and feel you want to convey in the space. There may be decor items that you want that a standard planner may not have to accommodate the ambiance, and we may need to reach into our vendor arsenal to get the furnishings you need. These are the top three companies I call, and just so happen to also be the top three event rental companies in Atlanta by threebestrated.com. I was blown away that we had the same list, but then again it wasn’t really all that shocking because these folks ARE the best. 

1. RENTALRY by LUXE EVENT RENTAL

I can honestly say that out of all three companies on the list, I have used Luxe Event Rental the most. They have recently changed their name to Rentalry, but I know that their customer service is still the same; Top Notch! Rentalry by Luxe Event Rental is in Atlanta, Georgia. however they have several different franchises in cities all over the US. They are a family owned company, and they are known for their vast rental inventory and flexible delivery times. I had an early spring evening event a year ago, and I was able to get all the tables, chairs, and outdoor heaters from Luxe and they were on time with delivery and pick up. We planners also get a discount for our clients when ordering from them too which is awesome because who doesn’t like saving money?

Photo Credit: Luxe Event Rental/Biz Bash https://images.app.goo.gl/fsJeB32Kmm3Eus1L7

2. Peachtree Tents & Events LLC

You need a tent specialist here in Atlanta, well now you know one! Peachtree Tents & Events was founded right here in Georgia, with other locations in Nashville, Birmingham, Charleston, Savannah and Myrtle Beach. I learned about this company while attending a bridal show in Atlanta a year ago, and was blown away with all the different styles and sizes of tents they carry. They also have specialty tables and chairs, dancefloors, and I even read they have a 100 cup coffee maker! People...I think I have found my happy place. After going over their website, I recently learned that they give back to a number of charities here in the metro like the Atlanta Community Food Bank and The Atlanta Mission. So when you support them, they support others.

Photo Credit: Peachtree Tents & Events LLC

3. We Rent Atlanta

Rounding out the list of three is We Rent Atlanta. When you want Opulence, this is it. The photos do not do this company justice! They are also a family owned and operated company and have been here in the Atlanta area since 1986. They work with an amazing collection of inventory that will make your event shine, and I do mean SHINE. I think this company has really raised the bar when it comes to luxury rentals. Their attention to detail when it comes to furnishings,  tableware, linens, uplighting, and even dancefloors is second to none. I really love how their team of designers put together gorgeous, jaw dropping tablescapes for any style of event! They can even fulfill a lot of your rental request in as little as 24 hours.

Photo Credit: We Rent Atlanta

Wow! I am so glad that events are coming back after COVID-19. If you live in the metro Atlanta area, be sure to check out all these wonderful rental companies for your next event, and if you need help be sure to get in touch with Simply Chic Soirées.

Keep It Chic,
XOXO
Amaris

A Party Divas Guide: 5 Tips for Planning a Post Quarantine Event

Throwing a fabulous event is not for the faint of heart. It takes passion, energy, and a really great support bra to get it done (trust me)! Whether it’s a day or evening event, the theme may be different, but the elements never change. These steps are your guide, a pathway if you will, to get you through any event. 

The Party Diva Scene

For most of us, getting our friends together for the first time since social distancing is going to be exciting! The hugs, the laughs, and the drinks will be plentiful. However, Madame ‘Rona has really changed the game for the event industry, so it’s important to think about innovative ways you can still keep the party going. 

Setting the scene, especially if the event is happening in your home, can be fun, but a bit confusing when picking themes or decor for the party area. Our homes are often fully decorated with couches and throw pillows, which is different than working with an empty venue. Whether you have a comfy sofa and coffee table or some other furniture combination, one of the best items to add are metallic or pearlized balloons. These ain’t your average 10th birthday party color balloons, but are more grown up, adding a sexy adult appeal to a party. Throw a cluster or two in a few corners of your space to give it a “pop”…see what I did there? Balloons…pop…no? Ok no more corny humor, promise. 

The party area of your home may not have an abundance of flat spaces, so you may need a few tables to place your food and drinks, maybe even a few favors if you want to get fancy! 

Ensure you order corresponding tablecloths for each table you set out, this will help to bring your decor together even more. If you’re getting together during the day, keep your linens light and bright with ivory, white, or even a color that already exists in your space to tie it all in. Candles and florals strategically placed around your area will also help to make it feel warm and welcoming. Add some folding chairs if you don’t have enough seating, and viola! A simple and chic scene is set! 

The Party Diva Vibe

Now your place looks great, so what’s next? Talk, mingle, and catch up! One way to set the vibe for your party is to include a game of choice. That can be something you create specifically for your guests or a game such as Jenga or Cards Against Humanity. Whatever you decide to do, make it an atmosphere that your guests can feel comfortable in. 

Lighting is key, especially for evening events. Edison lights on a back deck or patio makes a world of difference for the mood of your event. Here are some other lighting ideas if you wish to take it up a notch:

• You can grab some inexpensive votive candles from Walmart and line your back deck railing.

• You can add lanterns with pedestal candles inside them for a more romantic affect. 

Next up, add some music. If you know your guests and what they like, play their favorite songs. Personally, my friends are varied and so are their tastes, so my trick is to play Spotify on a speaker and gauge the vibe of the group. 

Whether you decide to throw a movie night with the hot buttered popcorn. Do a wine tasting and hire a bartender to provide custom wine blends. Whatever you do, make it fun and memorable.

The Provisions

Food - The backbone of any event. If you’ve been skimming this post up until this point, now is the time to pay attention. Virginia Woolf once said “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” Well baby, if I could go back in time, I would tell my girl V to edit and add “party well” because this is fact.

I’ve been the victim of circumstance while attending a party with a less than adequate array of food to choose from, and have even been the host with this party faux pas! To avoid this scenario, remember to request food allergies and restrictions from your guests prior to your event. You may have vegetarians or vegans coming, and no, they don’t just love a good salad! Have other options for them other than the standard fruit and veggie tray. 

Remember those tables and tablecloths I told you to purchase? This will be the base for your buffet area. If you can go for the matching serviceware, do it! I have a love, call it an obsession for beautiful serviceware. Nothing looks better than big, white porcelain bowls filled with colorful pasta salad or grilled chicken and rosemary on a gorgeous platter.

Tongs and other serveware should be available for your guests to load up on their favorite items. I like to have a tub filled with ice and an assortment of drinks that guests can grab and go. Add some mini splits of champagne and straws for that extra chic touch! Plates, cutlery, and napkins should also be near by the assortment, but have them in a decorative little basket to keep them clean. 

Most importantly, don’t feel obligated to cook because you are the host. If cooking is not your thing or just too time consuming, have your event  catered. 

The Fashion

I promise you, folks will be itching to get out and socialize so badly they will proudly buy and wear that Hawaiian shirt to your event. But seriously, it’s important to let your guests know what’s expected for the event attire. 

I remember when my husband and I were dating and he would invite me to parties telling me it’s something casual, only to show up and see everyone dressed in business casual attire. For the sake of wives and girlfriends everywhere, be sure to communicate your event attire on your invitation. 

Is it a daytime outdoor event? Then heels may not be appropriate or comfortable, and you don’t need to be worried about sprained ankles or grass stains on your guests favorite outfit. Is it an elegant dinner party? Then guest should know if jeans would be appropriate.

Making sure your guests are comfortable and cute for your party is always a plus. Some fun examples of how fashion can make a statement at a party or gathering could be an all black or white attired theme. You can even have some fun masks at the door for a mini masquerade! 

Just keep in mind that comfort is key! You want people to stay, and have the best time in your space. 

The Safe Zone

If food is the backbone of an event, safety is the heart. Your guest’s safety is of the utmost importance throughout the evening. It never hurts to have a first-aid kit in close proximity for minor cuts and scrapes. 

Now, we all like to kick back and drink at a function, but as the host be sure to monitor your alcohol consumption. It’s never a good look to not know what goes on in your home because you’ve had too much punch. Be sure to space out your guests drinks as well, and have bottled water, or a chilled caraffe for your guests to drink in between cocktails. 

One tip is to collect your guests keys at the beginning of an event if you would like to check they are sober enough to drive before they leave. Whatever method you choose for monitoring your guests, be attentive throughout the night. You can also enlist a friend as your designated driver for the night, in the event anyone needs it. If that’s not an option, make sure your rideshare app such as Uber, is ready to take guests home. 

Finally, don’t be afraid to house your guest for the night. Use that 6th sense, just in case the rideshare may not be the best option. 

Here are some last minute lifesavers (I’ve even added them in bullet points so you don’t miss them!):

• Ensure that you have extra toilet paper and towels in your bathroom. Pre-light a candle in there as well, this adds to the ambiance and takes away from anything else.

• Make space in your refrigerator. You will undoubtedly have more food on hand than usual.

• Don’t give away your good containers! Get some to-go trays for people who want to take leftovers home.

• If you have extra phone chargers, have them handy for your guests to use if needed. 

• Yes! You do need more ice.

I hope you have learned a lot from my tips, and that your next event is a successful one! Have a question? Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.

Keep It Chic,

Amaris T.