Looking for Our Newest Blog Posting???

Looking for our newest blog posting on Wedding Trends for 2012? You can find it here, at our new blog home, AlphaProsperityEvents.blogspot.com. We talk about some great trends like food stations, color palettes and formal vs. informal. Check it out and let us know your thoughts. 

We don't want to leave any of our friends and faithfully supporters behind so please sign up and follow us at our new home. We have some great wedding ideas, marriage inspirations and other great event planning tidbits to come. I can assure you that you don't want to miss a thing. So go head, check out the new blog post and then follow us. We appreciate your love and unwavering support.


Event & Wedding Planner  
Alpha Prosperity Events 
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Follow Our Blog At It's New Home!!

We mentioned in our post last week that we would be attending the Wedding MBA in Las Vegas. Well, we are back and so excited about all that we have learned. We met some great people within the wedding industry and came back with so many new strategies that we are just raring to go. Alpha Prosperity Events will be incorporating new ideas and ways of providing an even better service and product to you, our fans and customers. To start on the road of new strategies, we have created a new URL address for the blog. You can now follow us at our new blog address - http://alphaprosperityevents.blogspot.com/. Now don't worry, the design and topics won't change. We are just moving to a URL that is easier for you guys to remember and share with others. So, don't hesitate. Go now to subscribe and follow us.

Alpha Prosperity Events at Wedding MBA

Alpha Prosperity Events - Celebrating You

We are heading to Las Vegas for the Wedding MBA. We are looking forward to the great seminars and awesome networking. There will be a lot of emphasis on video marketing and social media so I am hoping to get a head start. Look for more great things and business growth from Alpha Prosperity Events. We intend to come back with tons of ideas and new inspirations. Trust me, you don't want to miss a thing because we are going to grow, right before your eyes. To help you keep up with us, follow our blog, subscribe to our posts, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. You can also see more videos and event highlights, when you subscribe to our You Tube channel. 


Event & Wedding Planner
Alpha Prosperity Events
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Don't Skimp on the "Getting Ready" Photos

Photo by Aaron Snow Photography, at Style Me Pretty

When brides and grooms are getting dressed and about to head down the aisle, they usually dress in hidden away places like their home bedrooms or special suites. They are often "locked away" with the family and friends that are near and dear to them.  At this very intimate time, you begin to see why the bride picked exactly who she picked to be apart of her wedding day. You see the bond of years of childhood friendships unfold as the bridesmaids, wearing matching shirts, gather to make sure the brides hair and make-up are just perfect.You see who the groom's real "boys" are in his most anxious moments, like when he can't get that top button done on his tuxedo shirt. You see a glimpse of a tear as Mom pins on her son's boutonniere and you see the tremendous emotion on Dad's face, when he first gets a glimpse of his "little girl" in her wedding dress.

Special moments like this should not be missed because they cannot be duplicated or replicated.  Make sure your wedding day schedule includes enough time for your chosen photographer and videographer to shoot these priceless, one of a kind moments. You may not think it is that big of a deal now, but looking back at your photographs and memories of the day, you will find that replaying or viewing these special moments are the ones that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Stay tuned for more trendy ideas for your wedding and special event planning.


Event & Wedding Planner 
Alpha Prosperity Events  
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Event Quality Vs. Event Quantity

I attended a fundraising event for an organization some time ago and we all know how those go right? Somewhat stuffy, everyone sharing business cards and putting on the proper netwoking face. When I got there I was somewhat disappointed, because the attendence was low; you always hope for a big turnout for any fundraising or networking event. But as the evening went on I realized that time had slipped away and I had stayed longer than my declared exit time. By the time I had gotten home, after midnight by the way, I realized that I had a really great time. Pondering this event and what made it so memorable was the fact that there was a small attendance. I found the attendees more relaxed and open to more profound, unrushed, and unrehearsed conversations. The group was cozy, and a lot of fun. I got to see sides of people I don't usually get to see. At the end of the evening, I felt as though I experienced the quality of people as opposed to the quantity of people.

For your next event, consider what you hope to provide to your guests or attendees. Are you trying to pack the place to show who you are and what you are capable of , and thereby, not truly connecting with anyone due to the sheer number of people there? Or, are you trying to make a connection, where you leave an impression with your guests or attendees, that causes them to remember you or your event, long after the show has ended.

When preparing that guest or attendee list, consider quality over quantity. Not only is it sometimes more cost effective but people remember moments and experiences with you, their host. Make sure your guest list doesn't have so many people on it that you won't be able to connect with each and every person that you felt was important to invite in the first place.



 
Event & Wedding Planner  
Alpha Prosperity Events  
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Just a Few of My Favorite Things!

Surfing the net can be dangerous sometimes, especially if you are shopper like me. You run across the best finds and things that you just can't live without. The hubby and I have been in the home redecorating mode and of course, we don't always agree on a certain couch, table or lighting element. But that's okay, I can still shop and decorate the way I want, with what I want, on my blog. And I was about due for a posting anyway so I hope you don't mind that I chose to share my surfing/shopping loves with you. Let's start with my fave, chandeliers.  

Chandeliers are all the rage now. You can add a touch of bling to any room with a chandelier. I especially love when they are placed over a bathtub in a master suite. Talk about glamourous. You can put them any where you want; after all, it's your space and you can do what you want with it. I can just imagine this "retro glamour" fixture in my home office, right over the sitting area. Granted, it's not pink but I like it anyway.

In an effort to be fair and reasonable, I have included another choice for my office chandelier that I think my hubby would be more open too. It has the opulence that he loves, plus the graceful elegance that I love. I think this is one we can agree on. The chandelier is from the John-Richard Collection and you can find it here. I just love the scroll work on this piece. I think it has great blend of the past with a modern flair.

 


Next, I found some great seating for the bedroom that is useful as well as pretty. Check out this oversized ottoman that really does double duty. You can store 8 pairs of shoes in the attached shoe pockets and you even have open space in the middle to store additional shoes or handbags. You can find these ottomans from Lilly Pulitzer Home here.

And how about a little bling for your work area and for those every day work items. A jeweled wireless mouse and a jeweled USB drive. With bling like this, I can almost predict that a lot of work would get done.  You can find these and other great desk accessories here.  

My birthday is coming up soon and if anyone needs a hint of a gift I could get excited about, any of these will do just nicely. 

 

Event & Wedding Planner

Alpha Prosperity Events

Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Pets as Wedding Party Attendants

Photo Courtesy: Martha Stewart Pets

You have your heart set on little Fifi walking down the aisle as your flower "girl". You have picked out a wreath for her to wear and you are even toying with a dress to match the wedding theme and colors.

This is not a shocking idea considering the popularity of pets being included as part of the wedding party. This popularity is evidenced by the availability of decorated dog leashes, doggie bow ties, wreaths, or ring pillows that Fido can wear.

Before making the overall decision about including your pet, there are a few details you should consider.

Photo Credit: People.com

• First and foremost, make sure your venue site allows pets at the venue and make sure they approve everything you have planned for your pet. 
• Second, make sure your pet is prepared and can handle all of the excitement surrounding your wedding. Too many people, unusual noise, and flashes from photography can upset your pet and cause him or her to behave in an unusual or aggressive manner. Be prepared for a quick exit or plan "b," just in case your pet can't perform as expected. 
• Third, create a plan to handle liability issues just in case your pet injures someone or damages some property at the venue. 
• Make sure your pet is properly bathed and groomed for the big day. Canine cologne is not the scent you want your guests to remember. Don't forget paper towels, plastic bags food and a water bowl. 
• And last, have a designated person (not you) assigned to handle and care for your pet. It should be someone that your pet is familiar with and someone that will not be upset about missing any of the festivities, in response to caring for your pet.

 With all things considered, including your pet will make the day all the more special for you and him as well.  So go ahead, put that bow tie on Scruffy and let him proudly walk down the aisle as the cutest ring bearer ever. 

Stay tuned for more trendy wedding and event planning ideas.

 
Event & Wedding Planner  
Alpha Prosperity Events  
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

My New VuPoint Scanner

Oh how I love coming home from a productive day to find nice little packages waiting for me, and today was one of those days. This past holiday weekend, the hubby and I were channel surfing, and stumbled upon the Home Shopping Network (HSN). I quickly noticed that it was the electronics segment and so I took interest. You would be surprised how much techno stuff you can learn by watching the shopping channels. They try to sell you on all the latest gadgets, there by educating you while entertaining you. I don't necessarily buy the item but I remember info about it so that when I am ready to buy, I will know some of the basics of what should be included and about how much it should cost.

Anyway, the particular item being showcased was a portable scanner. Now I have been considering a number of options for a scanner, since my tax accountant got on me about my shoebox accounting system (don't laugh), and when I saw this scanner, I heard angels singing. My hubby got excited too which only added fuel to the engine. And to top it off, it was pink. Well, there were other good colors too. I immediately purchased one for me and one for him, hot pink and aqua blue. 

You can scan photos, pages from books, and even fabrics. This little gizmo will really come in handy for business organization as well as color matches and design ideas for events. Now we have no excuses about not handling receipts and business paperwork better. As a small business, how or what have you done recently to keep yourself more organized? 

Event & Wedding Planner
Alpha Prosperity Events
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Decor Ideas for Summer Celebrations

With the 4th of July quickly approaching, no doubt you are planning for or attending a festive celebration somewhere. If you have been procrastinating on what to do or what to bring, why not create some memorable favors or centerpieces for the event. If you are planning the celebration, then your guests will love a momento of the day. If you are attending a celebration, why not make some for your hosts to use as decorative centerpieces.   With all of the preparations they have going on, I am sure they would be most appreciative of your thoughtfulness and creativity. Need some help on something fast and fun, check out these easy 4th of July crafts I found in All You.

All You is one of those great magazines that is chock full of quick ideas, recipes and great tidbits of how to make your life so much easier. If you haven't checked out an issue, it's a must do, especially since it is so affordable.


Star Spangled Sparklers


For the Star Spangled Sparkers  (pictured to the right) you will need :

• Mailing tubes and plugs in assorted sizes 
• Red, white and blue construction paper
• Glue stick
• Scissors
• Silver tassels
• Star-shaped paper punch
• Assorted ribbons and rickrack

1. Cover a tube in construction paper, using glue to secure

2. Use scissors or a knife to carefully make a small slot in one plug. Thread silver tassels through opening and tie in a knot to secure.

3. Decorate by gluing star-shaped cutouts and ribbons on tubes as desired. If you want to use them as party favors, fill with candy.

Decorative Flower Holders made from Cans & Colorful Paper

I hope you all enjoy your time of festivity and celebration. Please, feel free to send photos of your decorative ideas and how you used them for your summer celebration.

Stay tuned for more trendy ideas and inspirations. You don't want to miss a thing so make sure you "follow us" and subscribe. You can find details to the right. See you next time.

Event & Wedding & Meeting Planner

Alpha Prosperity Events

Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Guest Book Options

Want something different other than the standard guest book for your wedding or special event? If so, you are in luck. There are so many great, creative options out there now, that you can just about do whatever you want to cherish the well wishes of your family and guests. I love the options where you can incorporate the well wishes and signatures of your guests into the decor of your home. What about the idea of a memory platter because this is something you can display in your home, maybe on an entry table or fire place mantle, near your framed wedding photo.

I really like the idea of personal artwork, created by the bride or groom. It could be a sketch of a tree or home; very simple in design. If you are not the artsy type, you can find beautiful artwork like these on Etsy. But I am sure you can create something personal to share at your wedding or event, to showcase as your own special piece of artwork.

Canvas Wall Art by Cheryl Images

Thumbprint Canvas by CottageCreekArts

I love the idea of this piece. Using ink colors to match your wedding theme, have your guest place their thumbprint on various places on the canvas, creating the look of leaves on the tree. Guest then sign their thumbprint, creating a very personal, touching art piece to be placed in the couples home. This piece is an everyday reminder to the couple of their special day and the people who celebrated with them.





Guest Sign In Photograph by Calla Evans



This idea was genius - take an item that you may use or display in your kitchen - like a Cheeseboard, and have your guests sign it. When hosting parties and guests at your home, seeing it used or on display makes for quite a conversation starter or memory piece.  




Sculpted Puzzle Wedding Guest Book 


There are so many great ideas out there if you want something different. If you want the traditional guest book, there are many beautiful options available. That is the great thing about weddings and events; it's yours to plan, just the way you want, with the things that are important to you.

Stay tuned for more trendy ideas for your wedding or event planning adventures.

 
Event & Wedding Planner  
Alpha Prosperity Events  
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Travel Planning

I am so excited because I am planning another travel adventure. Nothing as exotic as my recent Caribbean cruise but a travel adventure none the less. We have a family wedding coming up in April 2012 and the wedding is in Alexandria, VA. Now I will be traveling from Houston and the rest of the family will be traveling from New Orleans. So this will be quite an expense for a lot of us, not only getting there but hotel lodging and food as well.
As much as I like to travel, I will never go into debt doing it. I am saver when it comes to stuff I really want and travel is very high on my list of wants. Therefore, I have to save for this trip and realize with 10 months to discipline myself to save, I should have a nice little stash to not only get me to the wedding but to also enjoy some sites and adventures while I am there. I am going to start the 1st of June and save with a "gazelle like intensity" - for all you Dave Ramsey fans out there.
If you are planning a trip, say a honeymoon perhaps, make some decisions about the planning process. Don't approach it with a carefree, no thought concept because this approach will only bring disappointment; if not on the trip itself then for certain when you get the credit card bills or look at your bank statement and you realize that you spent money you should not have spent.


 
Event & Wedding Planner  
Alpha Prosperity Events  
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Pretty Handpainted Wine Glasses

Looking for something different for a wedding party gift? Something special to help your wedding party remember that they were a part of your special day?  Check out this cute gift idea from JudiPaintedIt.

Or how about a gift for that special person that is hard to shop for?

To see more items and other ideas visit Judi's home page at  http://www.judipaintedit.etsy.com/.

Need other gift giving ideas and suggestions, give us a call, we are happy to assist. Stay tuned for more trendy wedding and event planning ideas for your special event.

 

Event & Wedding Planner

Alpha Prosperity Events

Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Favor Desserts - The Sky's the Limit!

 

Photo courtesy of  The Cake Ball Company 


Trying to decide on a favor for your guests to take away and remember your event or wedding day? What about desserts as your favor? After all, what's an event without something sweet. And if you provide packaging for your guests to take the sweet home, trust me, your event will never be forgotten.

As a starter, try some great tasting cake balls, as they are just the perfect sized dessert favor to send your wedding guests home with, assuring they will have sweet dreams and memories of your special day. There is packaging or some creative design concept to brighten up and gift any dessert or sweet your taste buds can imagine. Package your choice individually in small, decorative gift boxes or fancy plastic wrapping all done up in your event or color scheme and voila, you have a festive, tasty event favor as a gift for your guests. Don't forget to attach your monogram, name or thank you tag to your favor gift. Here are some photos of some other successful ideas of great favor desserts.


Favors from Austin Cake Ball



Cotton Candy from Sugar Bunch Creations

 

Candy Buffet from Sugar Bunch Creations

  

Sweets from Glamour Avenue Parties



Cookie favor for Corporate Event



Chocolate Caramel Covered Apples from The Sassy Apple



Cupcakes by Melissa in League City, Texas

Stay tuned for more trendy ideas for your wedding or special event.


Event & Wedding Planner Alpha Prosperity Events Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans

Adventures in Meeting & Conference Coordination

As some of you may or may not know, Alpha Prosperity Event Management got it's foundation and start in planning small business, law enforcement and association events, before adding the service of wedding planning and coordination.  Well, this past week, I had the wonderful opportuntity to return to my roots, working with an association group that is near and dear to my heart. This group has been around for just a few years and yes, they are small in relation to other associations. They operate with a very small budget but still, they are a hard working group and believe in education, networking and support coupled with caring and relaxation. Here are just a few of the highlights from their big event, held in South Padre Island, Texas.

 



Coordinating meetings, conferences and association events are always a joy for us, especially when they are held at beautiful places like this. If you are a small business or association and you are thinking about your next event, let us help. We take care of the details, so you can take care of the business of your event or association.


Event & Wedding Planner
Alpha Prosperity Events
Greater Houston ~ Missouri City ~ New Orleans