When legally changing your name through marriage (or divorce) there are many places you have to contact to update your information – name and address – just to keep your lives running smoothly.  There’s no getting around it and it’s a time consuming chore!

If you decide to take this on yourself, here’s a list of the places you’ll need to contact:

• Obtain 3 certified copies of your marriage license (photo copies will not be accepted).  Keep one in a secure location with your other important papers (safety deposit box), keep one easily accessible for yourselves (home files) and have one to send away (usually never to be seen again) to the Social Security Administration Department.
• Post Office – updating your name and address will keep your mail from being delayed
• Social Security Department – this is to insure that the name and ID number for payroll tax withholdings and retirement benefits is correct.  NOTE: If this isn’t changed in a timely manner, you may have hassles with withholdings going to the proper place, unemployment insurance, getting your tax returns, etc.   (Can you say “audit’?)
• Secretary of State - update your driver’s license with your new name and address for a valid ID
• Passport – NOTE: if traveling for your honeymoon, you might want to wait until you’ve returned to start any name-change processes so that you may use your existing passport for your trip.
• Voter Registration
• HR Department - regarding paychecks, automatic deposits, and benefits (ex. is your spouse going to be insured under your coverage and become a beneficiary on your life insurance?)
• Attorney – update legal documents such as living wills, power of attorney, etc.
• Mortgage Company – make sure the “married” you is getting credit for your payments
• Bank Accounts – make sure your account name matches the one on your drivers license and you may possibly want to add your spouse to the account
• Investment Accounts
• Credit Card Companies – no name change = no credit history under your new name
• Landlord
• Utility and Services Companies – electric, phone, Internet, gas, cable, etc.
• Other insurance accounts – such as auto, life and home
• Physician and Dental offices
• Professional licensing boards, University and Alumni associations
• Misc. subscriptions

As a newlywed, you’ll need to contact all these places shortly after your wedding — during the “Honeymoon Phase” of your lives.  For brides and grooms that are very busy and either don’t have time (or don’t want to) take on this daunting task, I recommend a  name-changing service called HitchSwitch.

HitchSwitch (www.hitchswitch.com) is run by a team of attorneys who - when they each got married - realized how long it took, and how much of a hassle it was, to complete the name-change process.  They decided to open a service to assist in completing and submitting all of the required paperwork necessary for a name-change following marriage or a divorce.

HitchSwitch charges a nominal $39.99 for preparing and assembling all necessary forms for you to legally change your name.  All the forms will be pre-filled for you, so all you’ll have to do is sign where indicated, and mail the appropriate forms to the relevant agencies in the pre-stamped and addressed envelopes. It takes less than 5 minutes of your time to fill out a short form and the rest of the work is done for you.  How amazing is that!

Oh, and if you’re at a loss about what to give as a wedding or shower gift … HitchSwitch also has gift cards.  They make a unique and sanity saving gift idea for newlyweds.  They’ll love you for it!

2012 Wedding Colors

Each year, leading design and fashion industry experts choose a Spring and Fall palette for the latest up-to-date looks.  Weddings, of course, follow suite as designers create bridesmaids dresses and tuxedo accents in these colors.  Here are the latest color trends for 2012.  (Hint: this year’s hottest color – “Tangerine Tango” – would make a great “fresh” accent with blue, greens, purples, greys and cream.)

Photos: Majesticgardens.com, affordablelinens.com, drycreekgarden.com, beachweddingsvirginia.com, vbonnairewordpress.com, theknot.com, weddingdressbay.com

Using shades and tints of any color will give depth to your look, such as the many uses of Tangerine in these examples.

Photos: linenhero.com, orangeblossomflowers.blogspot.com, thestylesafari.com, greylikesweddings.com, projectwedding.com, wickedgoodblog.com, proudtoplan.blogspot.com

Tangerine can be used as the “accent” color, or like in these examples, it can be the main color – with accents of green.

Photos: weddings.theknow.com, projectwedding.com, weddingbycolor.com, weddings.theknot.com, littlebouquetshop.com, myweddingplace.blogspot.com, floridianweddings.com, etsy.com

Spring and Summer — using a brighter, stronger Tangerine with lighter accent colors gives your wedding a crisper, fresh look.

Fall and Winter — using deeper colors with accents of softer, “sherbet” Tangerine, gives a warmer, more elegant feel to the palette.

Photos: squidoo.com, boards.weddingbee.com, pinterist.com, formal-invitations.com, pinterest.com, etsy.com

Since greys, creams and whites are cool tones and can easily be very “industrial” looking, incorporating other colors will add a decided interest or warmth to them.  Using shades of Tangerine will give greys, creams and whites this warmth.  Merged in different ways, this combination can lend itself to a look that’s either contemporary, funky and cutting-edge, or one that is elegant, chic and sophisticated.

Photos: weddingdressbay.com, etsy.com, squidoo.com, weddingwindow.com, etsy.com, martha-stewart.com

If you are not sure you want such a strong color like “Tangerine Tango” in your wedding, but would still like to keep up with the latest trend and give your wedding a little “pop”, try adding just a touch of it to your other color choices.  For example:

• hot pink and white with tangerine accents
• turquoise and mint green with accents of “sherbet” tangerine
• navy and buttercup with tangerine
• yellow and white with tangerine accents

So no worries whatever color combination you choose, there is a version of “Tangerine Tango” (2012′s hot color) that you can have fun with and incorporate into your wedding.

• A “Party” is a social gathering. It usually consists of an invitation to a private home for conversation, refreshments, and fun – such as a cocktail party, dinner party, or Superbowl party — and in such cases, the individual hosting the party provides the pretzels and beer, appetizers and drinks, or seating and dinner.

• An “Event” is a celebration. An event “creates an experience and leaves an impression” that you, your family and guests will remember forever — such as a milestone birthday, tribute, or wedding, to something even larger and multi-faceted such as a fundraiser or large corporate event — and in this case, an event coordinator arranges for the venue, invitations, food, décor, seating, lighting, speakers, entertainment, etc.

When should you hire an Event Coordinator?

I wouldn’t waste your money on an event coordinator for a Super Bowl party (unless you want it to be the Super Bowl party to end all Super Bowl parties), however, if you looking to “Create an Experience and Leave an Impression”, then an event coordinator would be a good choice to assist you, and will:

1. Assist you to conceptualize and articulate your desired vision — providing you with sketches of your events final “look” that will create an experience.
2. Will be your sounding board and will make sure everything works well together for a harmonious celebration — making suggestions as to what will, or may not, work well.
3. Put forth ideas on how to personalize your event through custom-made details — in other words, how to leave that lasting impression for your guests.
4. Make your vision come to life using all 5 or your senses, through lighting and draping, florals and fabrics, sweets and savories, props and entertainment, etc.
5. Provide you with creative, quality, reliable vendors and coordinate their services – saving you money, time and frustration.
6. Keep you on track with timelines, as well as your budget — often getting you better deals or additional “perks” that you, as a one-time shopper, would not receive.
7. Be a liaison and mediator between you and everyone that wants to “lend a helping hand”, give “advise”, or tries to live vicariously through you.  An event coordinator is able to work with all kinds of people, see various points of view, and can assist with a little compromise and problem solving.
8. Make sure that all vendors supply what they promised (on schedule), that all the small details are covered (is everything spelled correctly, the venue set up as envisioned and as promised), etc.  In other words, an event coordinator makes sure all 360 degrees of your event’s details are monitored and under control.  If any issues arise, it should be transparent to you because the event coordinator will deal with it — letting you enjoy your event and the limelight.

• What is the size of your event or wedding?
• Do you work?  Can you keep taking time off of work, or taking vacation to scope out sites, meet with vendors, etc?
• How busy is your schedule?  (Work long hours?  Out of town often?)
• How important is it to you to get the best deals and make your budget go farther?
• Do you want to have something unique?  Something thing will “wow” your guests?
• How important is it to you to actually be able to enjoy your event and be stress-free?

A professional wedding planner is a one stop shop for information, savings and your sanity.  A planner who has developed relationships with vendors can often get you better deals or additional “perks” that a one-time shopper will not receive.  And, a wedding planner should be part of your budget — not an extra expense.

As your wedding planner, Limelite360 Events will keep you on track, ask the right questions, comparison shop, inspire you with new ideas, and iron out the details — keeping you smiling, relaxed and carefree from the moment you said “yes” up until you leave for your honeymoon.

Q. Does the ceremony and/or reception venue allow pets on site? 

A. As a sign of our times, more and more venues are allowing animals on the premises.  But do yourself a favor and start your search for that perfect venue as soon as you have chosen your date.  Also be aware that a “pet deposit” may be added to your agreement, but if  “Fifi” behaves herself, you just may get that deposit back.

Q.Will your Officiant allow “Fido” to be part of the ceremony?

A. If you feel strongly about having your pet included in your wedding, then make sure that is one of the first questions you ask your officiant.  If he/she does not allow it, you may need some time to find one who will be happy to see that furry face walk down that aisle.

Q. What is your pet’s temperament?  Is “Fido” potty-trained, aggressive, a beggar, noisy, nosey, a jumper, or a “leg hound”?

A.Unfortunately, these traits will not magically disappear on your wedding day, but rather, due to the excitement and pace of a wedding, it’s more than likely that any undesirable habits or traits will only be magnified.  Do yourself a favor and take a serious look at your friend’s habits to see if their attendance will make your day a dream-come-true, or a nightmare, for you and your guests.

Q. Will “Fifi” really enjoy being in on all the celebrations? 

A. Remember, your pet is like a 2 yr old child, and there’s a lot going on during a wedding.  Will they be bored?  Considering the length of time you’d like them to be at the event.  Perhaps being at the whole ceremony and reception might be too taxing and an “appearance” would work better.  Will they be safe?  Anything toxic within their reach such as food, decor, apparel, etc.?  Is there a lot of traffic in the area?  Do they have a place they can go for some peace and quiet — without being petted constantly?  Who will watch over “Fifi” during the event?

And finally…

As gracious hosts, you will also want to take your wedding guests into consideration.   Remember to ask yourself if it would be upsetting or uncomfortable for your guests to have “Fido” at the wedding — OR – would they consider it a joyful and fun addition. 

Whatever your final decision, remember that your wedding is only one day.  And I wouldn’t worry too much…I’m pretty sure “Fido” would be happy to get that kiss anytime.

Puppy Smooches (photo credit:flickr.com)

“Patricia was such a help with my daughter’s wedding.  She was a big help since my daughter was only able to come home twice before the wedding.  She asked about details I hadn’t thought about.  She was available anytime I had a question and she took care of the many details having to deal with the reception.  I wasn’t able to do the decorating for the reception and she had many creative ideas.  She went above and beyond what she should have had to deal with for the reception and dealt with it graciously.

I would definitely recommend her for your parties whatever type they are.  She handled everything very professionally.”

Pam G.

It’s this last reason — “Member of the Family” — that makes couples want to include pets, especially dogs, in their weddings.  And it’s amazing how many various ways couples have found to honor their pet(s) in their weddings.  I have seen them as: 

Photo credit:dogtipper.com

Photo credit: with--this--ring.blogspot.com

•  “Miniature Bride and Groom” (guaranteed to get your guests rolling in the aisles!)
• “Flower Dogs” (sporting flowers or bow-ties)
• “Ring Bearer” (I’d make those faux rings if I were you!)
• “Giving the Bride Away”
• “Best Man or Maid of Honor” (Hmm…are paw prints legal as witness’ signatures on a marriage license?)

Photo credit: craftjuice.com

Photo credit: metro.co.uk

Photo credit: caninest.com

Note: A “Groom’s Cake” is a cute idea, but you might want to do everyone a favor and not make the body of the cake out of red velvet!  (However, if you must — please, please, please don’t make ME cut it.  Eek!)

No matter how you choose to include “Rex”, “Princess” or “Sweet-Ums”, you should have the liberty to personalize and celebrate the wedding in your own style, and your guests should honor those choices.  However, as the gracious hosts and pet lovers you are, you may want take a few things into consideration before planning a wedding that includes your pet – both for the pet’s sake, as well as for your guests’. 

“Pets & Weddings – Part 2” will provide you with some questions, “tips”, and things to consider before you decide to add “Fido” to your wedding party.    

Until then…

I now pronounce you man and wife!  You may now kiss Fido!  

Photo credit:krshijinx.blogspot.com

…again… 

Photo credit: toddpelloweblog.com

 …and again… 

Photo credit: montana-wedding-photographer.com

I came across this recently and thought they were adorable! 

They could be made into Crocus’ (purple & yellow, white & yellow) for the spring-time event, as well as Mums (red, gold, and rust) for the fall event.  They make a simple favor (such as M&M’s or mints) look very special.  Plus, they add to the table decor — very little cost, but big impact!

Here is the “How To” –

1. Fill a 3 5/8-inch-high acetate cylinder with candy.

2. To make flower, cut a 9-by- 30-inch piece of tissue paper. Fold, accordion style, in 5-inch-wide layers. Cut petals in smaller end; unfold and lay on flat surface.

3. Place cylinder on paper with bottom about 1 inch from uncut end, and roll; tape sides and bottom with double-sided tape. Tie ribbon above top of cylinder.

4. Gently peel petals down to open flower. If you use a shorter cylinder, reduce height of paper; for a multicolored blossom, wrap a second layer of paper around cylinder after first is secure; secure with ribbon.

Read more at Marthastewartweddings.com: Flower-Wrapped Favors

• having babies
• graduating high school and college
• getting married
• celebrating birthdays and anniversaries
• and retiring

And while it is currently harder to make ends meet than it was several years ago,  there are at least 5 reasons why now is the best time to hire an Event or Wedding Planner for any of your upcoming celebrations …

5.   A planner will keep you on track! 

The professional planner will ask the right questions, comparison shop, inspire you with new ideas, and iron out the details. 

With your extra busy schedule – trying to do 2-3 people’s work on the job, juggling home and family commitments, and trying to squeeze in a little time for yourself – a planner is the perfect answer to your celebration planning needs.   You won’t have to take time off from work to meet with vendors, you won’t have to spend your lunch hour surfing for the best deals, and you won’t have to keep that notebook by your bed for those nagging little details that pop into your head in the middle of the night!  In other words, hiring a planner means less stress and more time for yourself (and the remaining 101 “to do” items on your daily list).

4.   A planner will provide you with quality, reputable vendors! 

An event or wedding planner’s own reputation (as well as any future referrals) depend on the caliber of service the client receives.   Additionally, the professional planner has the training and experience to know which vendors are the best “fit” for your event or wedding. 

Remember, the planner has the advantage of having tested and worked with several vendors, so they know which ones are the best fit, most creative and most qualified…do you?   

3.   A professional planner helps you with all the aspects of your wedding or event — Designing, Coordinating, and Directing.

There are 3 parts to every event or wedding : Design, Coordination, and Direction.

The Design portion is where the planner helps you create the wedding or event of your dreams.  Their goal is to take your vision, your personality, and make a one-of-a-kind event.   The planner will help you create an experience and leave an impression.

The Coordination portion is where the planner helps you organize all the millions of little details for your event or  wedding.  From finding and securing the perfect vendors, locating those unique gifts and favors, and making sure all the I’s are dotted and the T’s are crossed on your invitations, the planner is the one that will help you finalize all the logistics of each who, what, when, where and how.

The Direction portion is where the planner makes sure all 360 degrees of the details are monitored and under control.  The planner will make sure your celebration is stress-free, and an exceptional event … leaving you to enjoy the limelight.

2.   A planner is your sounding board!

A professional event or wedding planner is a one-stop-shop for information, savings, and your sanity.  Throughout the planning stages, the planner will give you advice and recommendations – guiding you through the maze of questions from etiquette to the latest color trends.  In the end, however,  you get the final say.  After all, it is your celebration!

And the Number One Best Reason for Hiring an Event Planner is …

1.   YOU SAVE MONEY!

Yes!  Believe it or not, you actually save money by hiring an event or wedding planner.  A planner knows how much things should cost, how many items to order, and will focus your budget on what’s really important to you.  A professional planner also has developed relationships with vendors.  They can often get you better deals or additional “perks” that a one-time shopper would not receive. 

So remember, whether you are planning a client appreciation, a holiday party, a birthday, or a wedding; a professional event or wedding planner will be worth their weight in gold!

Contact LIMELITE360 EVENTS today or schedule a FREE one-hour consultation to discuss your event vision.

JUST A THOUGHT: Women of Strength

I recently had the privilege of becoming acquainted with a “woman of strength”.  She had just adopted 2 babies (brother and sister) when about 4 months later, she found out she had breast cancer.  Since then she’s had a mastectomy, completed her chemotherapy and is currently in the process of her radiation treatments.  Now as some of you may know, these are truly horrible things to endure, yet through it all she’s maintained a very positive attitude — actually thinking of it as an “opportunity”.  She’s changed her eating habits, lost 50+ pounds (intentionally), and has a wonderful smile on her face every time I see her.

My aunt, who has gone through a double mastectomy and chemo, is another “woman of strength”.  Through it all, I have never heard her say “why me?” or be depressed about her situation.  Complications from chemotherapy have brought about additional health issues, yet she perseveres through it all … marching bravely forward without a complaint and most often, with a smile.

What is it that makes these women so strong, so determined, and so brave?  They seem to be enjoying life more than many people I know, even those who seem to have everything — health, wealth, family, and friends.  Whatever it is — fortitude, faith or wisdom — I think these women and their spirits need to be commended and celebrated, along with those many, many other women facing adversity with class, style and strength.  I know October is officially “Breast Cancer Month”, but I believe that EVERY month these women (and others like them) are in our lives, are months that should be celebrated; and that these women that we love and admire should be acknowledged and applauded.  Just a thought!