Finding the right place to host your next event can be a time consuming process if you don't know where to start. You need to have a plan and keep notes on what you need so your event will be the most anticipated event of the year.
First, it would help if you think outside of the box. Use your imagination about where you want to host your next party. Make some time to go and see the locations and see if they are large enough to accommodate the number of guests you plan on having. You don't want a place that is too small and you don't want a place that is too large. If you don't have an accurate guest count, now is the perfect time to get one. When you send out your invitations, don't forget to require your guests to RSVP by a certain date so you know what you have to work with.
When you go to other parties, take notes. Look around at the venues that you are impressed with and had a great time at and add them to your list of possible locations. You can always contact those places later and find out how much they cost and what their rental requirements are. Come up with a theme. If you need ideas, think about what motivates you to party or have a good time. Take the layout of the event venue you plan to use into consideration. Depending on the type of venue you decide to have your party at, you may be able to use some of its features to enhance your decorations and themes. If you have hosted other events in the past, don't be afraid to recycle certain ideas to make your party a success.
Ask the place where you want to have your next party if they have staff that you can use to help your party run without a hitch. If it is necessary, you can always hire a party planner to help you with your party preparations. They can offer you guidance, much needed advice, and they also have access to a wide range of resources that will make your tasks much easier. Many party planners also have special contacts with many different event venue locations and can find the perfect place for you much faster than you could through your own efforts.
Don't plan your party on your own. Hire help or have a few trusted friends or family help you with your preparations and event venue selection. You'd be surprised at how many ideas you come up with when two or more people brainstorm together. Once you get some ideas in the pot, the creativity juices will get flowing and soon you will have everything you need to put together perfect party. Remember to keep in mind what would be fun and appealing to the majority of your guests.
Tuesday, 23 October 2012
Is a Strip Club Bachelor Party Appropriate?
If you're deep in preparation to get married, your friends (or those of your fiancée) are probably planning a bachelor party. And if you're reading this article, the prospect of planning it around a visit to a strip club has at least been thrown out there as a suggestion. Different couples are bound to see this in their own ways. Some couples have no problem at all. They treat a visit to such an establishment as being no different than going to see a movie with nudity in it. Others see it as cheating, full stop. The issue of its appropriateness is therefore difficult to pin down, but here's a look at some of the issues.
Going Out With the Guys
Let's face it: even this is enough to set some women off. This isn't intended to be an attack on women, either. There are plenty of men out there who are possessive enough to put an end to "girl's night out". This article just happens to be from the other point of view. Truth be told, if your significant other's problem with a night at the strip club is primarily centered around the fact that you won't be home with her, you may have a problem brewing. This is something you should have a serious discussion about before you go further down the road to matrimony.
The Last Night of Freedom
The reason the strip club is a frequent favorite for bachelor parties is due to this notion of, "Oh, enjoy it now, because this is your last night of freedom, bro." Let's get serious here. Your last night of freedom was a long time ago. If you're in a relationship serious enough to walk down the aisle in a day or two, any indiscretions will be just as damaging now as they will be in a week. While it's okay to go out with this fantasy of "the last free night", don't let it get into your head or you could be asking for trouble.
Contact
This is where you have to be careful, even if your fiancée is fine with you enjoying a night at the strip club for your bachelor party. If your friends aren't completely worthless, they're probably going to buy you a lap dance or two. It's up to you to set the boundaries. If you're going to a classy place, you won't have to worry about things getting completely out of hand. If you're going to some shady dive, who knows? Don't do anything you wouldn't want your fiancée to hear about later.
Going Out With the Guys
Let's face it: even this is enough to set some women off. This isn't intended to be an attack on women, either. There are plenty of men out there who are possessive enough to put an end to "girl's night out". This article just happens to be from the other point of view. Truth be told, if your significant other's problem with a night at the strip club is primarily centered around the fact that you won't be home with her, you may have a problem brewing. This is something you should have a serious discussion about before you go further down the road to matrimony.
The Last Night of Freedom
The reason the strip club is a frequent favorite for bachelor parties is due to this notion of, "Oh, enjoy it now, because this is your last night of freedom, bro." Let's get serious here. Your last night of freedom was a long time ago. If you're in a relationship serious enough to walk down the aisle in a day or two, any indiscretions will be just as damaging now as they will be in a week. While it's okay to go out with this fantasy of "the last free night", don't let it get into your head or you could be asking for trouble.
Contact
This is where you have to be careful, even if your fiancée is fine with you enjoying a night at the strip club for your bachelor party. If your friends aren't completely worthless, they're probably going to buy you a lap dance or two. It's up to you to set the boundaries. If you're going to a classy place, you won't have to worry about things getting completely out of hand. If you're going to some shady dive, who knows? Don't do anything you wouldn't want your fiancée to hear about later.
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Old Man in an Arm-Chair
Did you ever hear the story of the Old Man in an Arm-chair? It is not very remarkable, but it may be a read for a slow passing afternoon.
He was a very honest old man who now was pensioned off. He was in no great fear of the morrow-people said often as they passed his window, said perhaps too often:
"Look! At the window, there leans the old man again!"
"What is the old man thinking?" says another voice.
"Perhaps," said an answering voice, "His whole life drama is in that gaze".
And perchance it was. And thus, the years roll by, scarcely had the old man moved forward, so it would seem to an onlooker, from that old cushioned and wooden arm-chair: looking out his window at the many children at play, now grown to adulthood, this being his older years life's drama, where the children with their red cheeks are no longer red, nor are they shoeless, but they still pass the old man's window, history renewed, in a different way.
The old man now glances down, if you were nearby him, you could hear his breathing, he is old and tired. All around him is quieter and more quiet... there are old photographs placed on his lap, for he wished it so! He had been sitting in his arm-chair-long this day, telling his mind, his second self, as it is often referred to, some of the stories behind the photographs. He has leaned his head back to sleep awhile.
He has some wrinkles; his hair is a little whiter, thinner, this year than last year. And to be frank, he can tell you some good stories, if indeed you have time to listen. He has books all about him, books older than he. He knows soon he'll just be dust in a grave, he wishes it.
Today he thought about all the brothers in the world, how more often than not, they try to cheat one another-family members waiting for their loved ones to die for want of things that will rot and perish in time, like him, like they. He's thinking of the deceivers the tyrants.
"Everyone thinks they're going to heaven," he chuckles.
And now he's thinking about right and truth. And his thoughts have lifted and brought him to wish it-gazing in that arm-chair a long while, gazing out the window, gazing at his photographs, and he wishes it; the old man has gotten aroused, an arrow struck his heart and it stretched from earth to heaven, to the point they both seemed so very close to him: in other words, perhaps, what is far to man or most men, was close for him.
And his mother knew him, and his grandmother knew him-all heavenly bodies to each other. Then the walls in his home sank and crumbled in front of his eyes, even the arm-chair rotted to dust in front of his eyes, but his kindness in those old eyes never died in those old photographs: not even when they laid him on his back, in that dark cedar coffin-their remembrance lived on, and on and on.
Written 8-12-2012 (Lima, Peru)
He was a very honest old man who now was pensioned off. He was in no great fear of the morrow-people said often as they passed his window, said perhaps too often:
"Look! At the window, there leans the old man again!"
"What is the old man thinking?" says another voice.
"Perhaps," said an answering voice, "His whole life drama is in that gaze".
And perchance it was. And thus, the years roll by, scarcely had the old man moved forward, so it would seem to an onlooker, from that old cushioned and wooden arm-chair: looking out his window at the many children at play, now grown to adulthood, this being his older years life's drama, where the children with their red cheeks are no longer red, nor are they shoeless, but they still pass the old man's window, history renewed, in a different way.
The old man now glances down, if you were nearby him, you could hear his breathing, he is old and tired. All around him is quieter and more quiet... there are old photographs placed on his lap, for he wished it so! He had been sitting in his arm-chair-long this day, telling his mind, his second self, as it is often referred to, some of the stories behind the photographs. He has leaned his head back to sleep awhile.
He has some wrinkles; his hair is a little whiter, thinner, this year than last year. And to be frank, he can tell you some good stories, if indeed you have time to listen. He has books all about him, books older than he. He knows soon he'll just be dust in a grave, he wishes it.
Today he thought about all the brothers in the world, how more often than not, they try to cheat one another-family members waiting for their loved ones to die for want of things that will rot and perish in time, like him, like they. He's thinking of the deceivers the tyrants.
"Everyone thinks they're going to heaven," he chuckles.
And now he's thinking about right and truth. And his thoughts have lifted and brought him to wish it-gazing in that arm-chair a long while, gazing out the window, gazing at his photographs, and he wishes it; the old man has gotten aroused, an arrow struck his heart and it stretched from earth to heaven, to the point they both seemed so very close to him: in other words, perhaps, what is far to man or most men, was close for him.
And his mother knew him, and his grandmother knew him-all heavenly bodies to each other. Then the walls in his home sank and crumbled in front of his eyes, even the arm-chair rotted to dust in front of his eyes, but his kindness in those old eyes never died in those old photographs: not even when they laid him on his back, in that dark cedar coffin-their remembrance lived on, and on and on.
Written 8-12-2012 (Lima, Peru)
Monday, 17 September 2012
Measuring Marketing Success: 10 Metrics That Matter
How do you know if your marketing efforts are producing results?
While ROI is important, marketing is a long-term investment. There can be measurable short terms results, such as "We spent $100,000 in online advertising last month, and generated $450,000 in sales.
" Unfortunately, too much focus on immediate returns overlooks the other factors that contribute to the success of that campaign, such as proper branding and positioning of the business to facilitate a positive response to advertising.
Without a long-term commitment to marketing, it's irrational to expect a positive ROI from month to month or quarter to quarter. There will be times when the investment exceeds the immediate return, but over several months and even years, the results will compound like interest in a savings account.
Companies that are fickle marketers will continue to be frustrated by spending only "when we can afford it" and turning off investment in tough times, when it's needed more than ever.
Changing the mindset that marketing is about activity, and that it can be turned on and off like a faucet requires a focus on the real results that marketing delivers.
What are these factors? You can tell marketing is working when you see the following:
Increase in brand preference - customers know your business and chose your company over competitors, asking for you by name.Growing market share - you're winning more and more business within your chosen markets, and are not losing out to competitors as often as in the past.Higher visibility in the industry - more media inquiries come in, industry analysts are following your business, press coverage picks up and speaking opportunities contribute to a higher profile for your business.Greater brand awareness - when asked to list the leading companies in your space, the name of your business pops up more regularly. Employees don't have to explain who they work for, and people recognize the logo on your golf shirt.Shorter sales cycles - Sales reps can get in the door more easily and customers a more aware of your offerings. Questions change from "who are you and what do you do" to "how can we make this work together."Increased lead flow - the volume of qualified leads increases as your reputation builds and your market reach expands.Better quality leads - Less time is wasted on unqualified prospects, because they can see they're not good a fit and exit the pipeline quickly - if they enter it at all.Higher lead conversion - Because leads are more highly qualified (and often self qualified due to brand awareness), you can close a higher percentage of the leads you do receive.Increased corporate valuation - all of the factors above increase the value of your business.Higher share price - for public companies, share price will increase as word spreads of your success and you become a company to watch.
While ROI is important, marketing is a long-term investment. There can be measurable short terms results, such as "We spent $100,000 in online advertising last month, and generated $450,000 in sales.
" Unfortunately, too much focus on immediate returns overlooks the other factors that contribute to the success of that campaign, such as proper branding and positioning of the business to facilitate a positive response to advertising.
Without a long-term commitment to marketing, it's irrational to expect a positive ROI from month to month or quarter to quarter. There will be times when the investment exceeds the immediate return, but over several months and even years, the results will compound like interest in a savings account.
Companies that are fickle marketers will continue to be frustrated by spending only "when we can afford it" and turning off investment in tough times, when it's needed more than ever.
Changing the mindset that marketing is about activity, and that it can be turned on and off like a faucet requires a focus on the real results that marketing delivers.
What are these factors? You can tell marketing is working when you see the following:
Increase in brand preference - customers know your business and chose your company over competitors, asking for you by name.Growing market share - you're winning more and more business within your chosen markets, and are not losing out to competitors as often as in the past.Higher visibility in the industry - more media inquiries come in, industry analysts are following your business, press coverage picks up and speaking opportunities contribute to a higher profile for your business.Greater brand awareness - when asked to list the leading companies in your space, the name of your business pops up more regularly. Employees don't have to explain who they work for, and people recognize the logo on your golf shirt.Shorter sales cycles - Sales reps can get in the door more easily and customers a more aware of your offerings. Questions change from "who are you and what do you do" to "how can we make this work together."Increased lead flow - the volume of qualified leads increases as your reputation builds and your market reach expands.Better quality leads - Less time is wasted on unqualified prospects, because they can see they're not good a fit and exit the pipeline quickly - if they enter it at all.Higher lead conversion - Because leads are more highly qualified (and often self qualified due to brand awareness), you can close a higher percentage of the leads you do receive.Increased corporate valuation - all of the factors above increase the value of your business.Higher share price - for public companies, share price will increase as word spreads of your success and you become a company to watch.
Myths About Reception Halls in Your Area
When selecting reception halls for your special day, corporate event, or wedding, numerous things must be taken into consideration. Often, individuals planning such events will visit a location, tour it, and make an instant decision about whether or not it is the right option for their needs. However, before you step away, be sure to ask questions and get as much information as you can. As you will see, there are various myths people believe when it comes to selecting such a location that could be limiting their ability to choose the most ideal place for their needs. Believing some of the biggest myths could lead to you not getting the most out of your money. Look out for these myths.
You Can't Ask for More
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you simply cannot ask for more from reception halls than what is provided to you. The pamphlet provided may not give you all of the information you need to make a key decision here. In short, you may end up missing key features you need. For example, if you are looking for a location that provides full service but the company does not list they offer bar service, this does not mean it is not available. Ask for it. Even if it is not normally included in the package, they may be willing to offer it to you to get you to agree to the offer.
You Can't Negotiate with Them
You can and you should negotiate with any facility to get the type of experience you want. For example, some charge extra for different colored napkins or linens. They may charge more for one type of glass than another. If these types of details are important to you, ask them to include it free of charge and they may be willing to do just that. You can also negotiate the price. Be frank about your budget and ask them to work out an offer that allows you to book right away.
Menus Are Not Flexible
Most often, caterers present a menu that lists most of their options. However, this does not mean they cannot offer something else. In fact, it may be easier for you to find the types of foods you need by being open and frank about your needs. Ask about key concerns you have, such as options for vegans, vegetarians, and those with allergies. They should make accommodations for you if you really want that specific meal, too. Some will even make specific recipes if you ask.
The bottom line is that if you are looking at reception halls, realize the options provided may be the best option for the company. These are not limitations, though. Most locations will be willing to work with you and work out the details to get you to book your event with them. And as always, it never hurts to ask.
You Can't Ask for More
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you simply cannot ask for more from reception halls than what is provided to you. The pamphlet provided may not give you all of the information you need to make a key decision here. In short, you may end up missing key features you need. For example, if you are looking for a location that provides full service but the company does not list they offer bar service, this does not mean it is not available. Ask for it. Even if it is not normally included in the package, they may be willing to offer it to you to get you to agree to the offer.
You Can't Negotiate with Them
You can and you should negotiate with any facility to get the type of experience you want. For example, some charge extra for different colored napkins or linens. They may charge more for one type of glass than another. If these types of details are important to you, ask them to include it free of charge and they may be willing to do just that. You can also negotiate the price. Be frank about your budget and ask them to work out an offer that allows you to book right away.
Menus Are Not Flexible
Most often, caterers present a menu that lists most of their options. However, this does not mean they cannot offer something else. In fact, it may be easier for you to find the types of foods you need by being open and frank about your needs. Ask about key concerns you have, such as options for vegans, vegetarians, and those with allergies. They should make accommodations for you if you really want that specific meal, too. Some will even make specific recipes if you ask.
The bottom line is that if you are looking at reception halls, realize the options provided may be the best option for the company. These are not limitations, though. Most locations will be willing to work with you and work out the details to get you to book your event with them. And as always, it never hurts to ask.
Wednesday, 12 September 2012
Ryan Gosling the Front-Runner for Christian Grey?
E.L. James may have written Fifty Shades of Grey with Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart in mind as the erotic novel's protagonists Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, but with all the recent relationship troubles between the Twilight couple, this seems unlikely. Even though Fifty Shades of Grey started out as a piece of Twilight fan fiction, many fans have their own ideas as to who should play the dazzlingly hot and mysteriously kinky billionaire. The movie adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey is the hottest property in Hollywood right now, and many actors - both big and small names - are tripping over each other to get a part in the movie. While the Twilight couple was initially the favorite to take up the role, after the negative attention they've been receiving since Kristen Stewart's cheating episode, their favor has dropped considerably - and E.L. James no longer wants the pair in the movie adaptation of her books. But never the less there are plenty more actors to choose from for the role of shy, innocent Anastasia Steele and the mysterious, sexy Christian Grey.
The potential candidates for the role of Ana Steele include Mila Kunis, Emma Watson and Scarlett Johansson. Even Angelina Jolie wants a role in the movie! Ryan Gosling from The Notebook is said to be the bookies' favorite for the part of Christian Grey, with Vampire Diaries' Ian Somerhalder not too far behind. The hype surrounding the movie Fifty Shades of Grey is like nothing we've ever seen before, where even the adaptations of the Harry Potter series or even The Lord of the Rings didn't receive the kind of attention that E.L. James's erotic trilogy does. Perhaps it's the adult nature of the books that make them so appealing to the general public - rather than releasing another children's or young adult adaptation as the next big thing. Fifty Shades of Grey is a book that has hit the world by storm, sprinting up to the number one position with increasing sales weeks on end, whipping all other summer reads into submission. Even after weeks at the top, Fifty Shades is not going anywhere. The popularity of the books can only mean that the movie is already a guaranteed success before it's even been cast - meaning any actor or actress in Hollywood wants a part in the action. You don't need to be a psychic to know that the movie is guaranteed to break all the box office records upon its release!
The potential candidates for the role of Ana Steele include Mila Kunis, Emma Watson and Scarlett Johansson. Even Angelina Jolie wants a role in the movie! Ryan Gosling from The Notebook is said to be the bookies' favorite for the part of Christian Grey, with Vampire Diaries' Ian Somerhalder not too far behind. The hype surrounding the movie Fifty Shades of Grey is like nothing we've ever seen before, where even the adaptations of the Harry Potter series or even The Lord of the Rings didn't receive the kind of attention that E.L. James's erotic trilogy does. Perhaps it's the adult nature of the books that make them so appealing to the general public - rather than releasing another children's or young adult adaptation as the next big thing. Fifty Shades of Grey is a book that has hit the world by storm, sprinting up to the number one position with increasing sales weeks on end, whipping all other summer reads into submission. Even after weeks at the top, Fifty Shades is not going anywhere. The popularity of the books can only mean that the movie is already a guaranteed success before it's even been cast - meaning any actor or actress in Hollywood wants a part in the action. You don't need to be a psychic to know that the movie is guaranteed to break all the box office records upon its release!
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