Meetings, Events and Parties

Took some time off!

2010-05-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

I recently took some time off (alot of it but not as much time off as my lack of blog posts would suggest) to get married, have a baby...you know, just a couple things ;) Anyhow, i am eager to get back to working on events. I love the feel of being involved with an event, the build up of momentum, the long hours, the exhilliration as the event date approaches and then, the actual day, there you are, no safety net. Just you and your team and all your efforts on display for the world, or at least your event attendees, to see :) I am excited to get into whatever I can event wise in the next few months. I will keep you posted on any new adventures that come my way in the coming months!

Thalia

2009-02-19T12:58:00.000-08:00

Eco chic centerpieces and décor for any occasion!

If you are interested in creating stunning eco chic décor for your sustainable wedding or event but are concerned about the amount of green that going green might cost then you are not alone. Many people believe that sustainable elements take a lot of time and a lot of money to pull together in order to create a professional, polished look for their big event. Below, you will find some simple, cost effective ideas for DIY yourself projects that require nothing more than a little bit of imagination and a little bit of time to create beautiful, elegant designs for your centerpieces and place settings.

For an ultra simple, ultra chic look, try tall, medium or small sized cylinder vases with wheat grass coming out of the top. Many health food stores either sell wheat grass or can point you to an organic wholesaler that sells wheat grass. Wheat grass generally comes in trays and can be cut to fit whatever vase or container you wish to display it in.

Another simple DIY centerpiece idea is to purchase or rent large hurricane vases, place river rocks at the bottom, and add either a soy candle in the middle, or fill the vase with water and place a floating candle or floating flower at the top. These ideas work well for cylinder or square shaped vases as well. If purchasing the vases, you can let guests take the centerpieces home, resell the items or save for reuse at a later time.

Green tip for candles: Most candles are made of paraffin. Paraffin is a petroleum by product and contains several toxins. Usually wicks contain some type of lead product and the fragrances are synthetic which many people are allergic to. Soy based candles with essential oils, burn completely clean, and don’t leave any soot! http://www.findsoycandles.com/

Using a wreath or garland of flowers to surround vases or candles is a simple way to add natural beauty to your table décor. For fresh local wreaths try Northwest Wreath Company (503-657-9872) or use Silk Flower Garlands Add Crystal Sprays or Mirrored Garlands to flower arrangements for extra sparkle (http://www.save-on-crafts.com/cr6.html)

To add an extra touch of elegance and color , try potted plants. Plants can be placed at entrances to doorways, at the end of every other aisle during your wedding ceremony or as centerpieces for dining tables, bridal table, guest book table or other main focal points. Potted plants are usually inexpensive and can be purchased online, from your local nursery or even from a local hardware or grocery store. An extra bonus is that these plants can double as gifts! http://www.plantamemory.com/wedding-centerpieces.html

For bridal table centerpieces (or in addition to main bridal table centerpieces) have bridesmaids place their bouquets on the table, facing out towards guests. This will add color to the table without having to pay for extra flowers.

Green tip for flowers: Try to find a florist that uses in season flowers and does not use pesticides. If you are not sure what the season is for the type of plant or flower you want to use at your wedding you can reference the link below:
http://www.tokenz.com/flowers-by-season.html

Money saving tip for flowers: Make sure you do some research and know the names and general description of the types of flowers you want for your event before speaking with florists. If you refer to the flower of your choice as a “yellow one” you are likely to end up with the most expensive yellow flower the florist has.

Linens- If you are having a garden or ranch style wedding or event, try skipping table linens altogether. Not using linens if you don’t need them reduces the energy needed to have them washed and dried. If your wedding or event is in an indoor setting and you do need linens, try neutral colors (green, ivory, brown). This will add to the natural feel of your wedding and will not distract from other colorful elements (flowers, lighting, balloons, etc…) If getting married at a hotel, you can use the linens the hotel provides and only use a couple specialty linens (in silk or satin) for the bridal table or other spots in the room where a lot of attention will be focused.

As an alternative to a guest book, you may want to try a matted frame for your guests to sign. This eliminates paper waste and adds a fun, festive touch. This will also serve as a keepsake that you can hang on a wall as a daily reminder of your special day! Large matted frames are available from craft stores and specialty framing shops and can be cut to size or made to order.

Depending on the season and your theme, use lemons, limes, or apples as centerpieces or accents. Their natural beauty add vibrant color and dimension to any setting!

And most importantly, no matter what décor elements you choose, just remember to relax and have fun! Your décor should be a reflection of your unique personality and personal preferences. 

Heart Healthy Recipe Makeovers

2009-02-19T12:38:00.000-08:00

First off, I would like tosay that I hope everyone had a Happy, Healthy Super Bowl Sunday, Valentines Saturday and any other celebratory occasion that most likely involved massive quantities of food!

Now, I realize that these occasions have come and gone, but they will be back and you can rest assured that you don’t need football, cupid, or any other icon as an excuse to enjoy a great tasting snack! And even better yet, you can use the recipes I have listed here to create healthy, great tasting alternatives to traditional snack fare without your #1 fan(s) ever knowing the difference!

Avacado-Corn Salsa:

Makes 4 servings

1 medium avocado, diced

3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed

1/2 cup quartered grape tomatoes

1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

2 teaspoons lime juice

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Toss avocado, corn, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice and salt in a medium bowl.

Serve with pita bread, quesadilla triangles or atop rice and beans

Seven Layer Dip

Makes 6 cups

Ingredients:
16 oz. can fat free spicy or zesty refried beans
1 Tbsp. fresh squeezed lime juice
1-1/2 tsp. chili powder
? tsp. ground cumin
? tsp. garlic powder
11-1/2 ounce (about 1-1/4 cups) jar guacamole dip*
? cup chopped green onions
1 cup light sour cream
3 Tbsp. canned, drained, diced green chilis
1-1/2 seeded, chopped vine-ripened tomatoes
4 oz. shredded 75% light cheddar cheese
2 Tbsp. finely chopped cilantro leaves
1/2 cup sliced, drained black olives

Instructions:
In medium bowl, mix together beans, lime juice, chili powder, cumin and garlic.

Spoon bean mixture into a 6-cup glass serving bowl. Using a spatula, spread evenly to form a flat layer. Pour guacamole evenly over beans and smooth with back of a spoon. Sprinkle green onions evenly over top.

In a small bowl, mix sour cream and chilis. Spoon mixture evenly over onions and smooth. Sprinkle tomatoes over top.

In a second small bowl, mix cheese with cilantro. Sprinkle evenly over tomatoes. Sprinkle olives over that. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 1 day.

10 Minute Party Sub

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients:
16-ounce whole wheat French loaf
Olive oil spray
2-1/2 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves
2 medium tomatoes, sliced into ? inch thick slices
? teaspoon dried oregano leaves, or to taste
? cup slivered white onion
12 ounces shaved extra-lean red pepper seasoned deli turkey
3 ounces reduced-fat provolone cheese slices
3 ounces reduced-fat salami slices
4 ounces shaved 97% lean smoked deli ham
1 medium green bell pepper, cored, seeded and finely sliced in to rings, or to taste
? teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
Red wine vinegar, to taste

Instructions:
Cut the loaf lengthwise to open, being careful not to cut all of the way through. Open and mist lightly with spray. Sprinkle lettuce evenly over bottom half.

Top evenly with tomato, oregano, onion, then turkey. Lay cheese then salami slices over that. Mound ham over that. Arrange bell pepper rings over that.
Sprinkle with pepper flakes.

Homemade Sweet Potato Chips:

In lieu of salty potato chips or cheese puffs, consider tasty sweet potato chips. This is a really delicious treat and simple to make.

Peel and slice sweet potatoes into round chips.
Spread chips on cookie tray and spray with olive oil or vegetable cooking spray.
Bake in oven on 400 degrees for about 15 minutes.
Turn chips over and bake on the other side.
Remove from oven and sprinkle with either salt, or a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon. Absolutely delicious!

Better For You Buffalo Wings:

Makes 7 servings (7 drumettes per serving)

2 teaspoons seasoned salt
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons flour
2 1/2 pounds (about 28) wing drumettes (look for skinless drumettes if available) 1/4 cup nonalcoholic or light beer (chicken broth or wine can also be used) light blue cheese dressing (optional)

Directions:
1. In a small mixing bowl, stir together the seasoned salt, chili powder, garlic powder, pepper, and flour. Remove and discard the skin from the wings (if you weren't able to find skinless drumettes). Dip each wing into the seasoning mixture, pressing the mixture onto the chicken to coat well.

2. Generously coat a large nonstick skillet with canola cooking spray and place over medium-high heat. Add the chicken wings (cooking in batches if necessary) and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the bottoms are browned. Flip with prongs and cook for about 4 minutes more.

3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the beer. Cover the pan and cook for about 5 minutes. If the wings aren't cooked through, turn them over and cook for a few minutes more. Remove from the heat and serve hot with light blue cheese dressing if desired.

In addition to the above snack ideas, you can include healthy, convenient elements to your snack spread by including hummus, pesto (packaged or homemade) fresh, sliced fruit, steamed asparagus, salads, fruit skewers with yogurt dipping sauce or assorted fruit and vegetable platters.

Extra healthy snack tip: When shopping, try to choose local, organic ingredients. Organic products are grown without the use of pesticides and artificial fertilizers, colors or preservatives, making them easier for your body to digest.

Enjoy!

For Foodies on the Go

2009-02-05T17:14:00.000-08:00

When I moved to Portland from California, I was shocked at the popularity of the food cart. In California there is an affectionate term for these carts and that term alone is enough to keep most hungry breakfast and lunch seekers well away from these carts!

However, when my mom came to visit me in Portland, we stopped and asked a man on the street if he knew of a good place to visit for lunch. He pointed to a group of food carts about a half a block away and said that we could choose from American, Thai or Mexican cuisine and that all were exceptional. I decided right then and there that I would conquer my fear of the food cart and put this mans suggestion to the test. My heart was pounding with anticipation and caution as I requested two orders of pad Thai and a couple bottles of water. When our food was ready, my mother and I took a seat at a little table near by and prepared for our first food cart dining experience. After a few bites, I realized that maybe Portland is on to something with this food cart thing. My food was not the greasy, under/overcooked, over sauced disaster I had been expecting. It was in fact, very much the opposite. The medium egg noodles were cooked to perfection and mixed with just the right combination of egg, bean sprouts, onions and peanut sauce. All the flavors in the dish blended perfectly to create a meal that I would have thought you could only get in an upscale, sit down Thai restaurant. I found myself enjoying the food so much that I happily conversed with my mom while scarfing down what must have been a solid pound of noodles. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the only complication with my first food cart dining experience was that of having to walk around on a too full belly from not being able to stop eating when I really should have. I was amazed that we had both been treated to a delectable feast for less than $10.00!

Since my first experience with food cart dining, I have visited other local carts when taking a lunch break or indulging in a day of shopping. I have yet to be disappointed. There is a burrito cart on NW 13th where the ingredients are fresh and they offer a wide range of toppings, salsas and vegetarian options. There is a Benito cart on SW 9th that offers authentic perfectly cooked and seasoned Japanese cuisine at an extremely reasonable price.

So, if there are any skeptics out there that have never been exposed to food cart dining, I urge that you open your mind to it here in Portland! With portions usually large enough to serve as lunch and dinner, prices usually around $5.00 and quick and friendly service, what have you got to lose but your skepticism? Follow the below link to find locations, descriptions and reviews of Portland food carts!

http://foodcartsportland.com/

Happy Birthday 2009!

2009-01-04T10:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday 2009!

With what the media is calling our "Arctic Blast" of 2008, the disarray of the stock market, and the disillusioning nightly news reports being pumped into homes across America day and night, it can be hard to keep focus on what's really important.

I was reminded of this when, on December 25th I found myself snowed in, with no chains on my car, a stack of unsent holiday cards sitting in my living room while I watched the skies dump a few more inches of snow onto my yard and wondered if I would ever be able to return to work. The first day it snowed I happily enjoyed a peaceful snow day, baking and listening to holiday tunes. The 2nd day it snowed I had eaten everything I baked, went sledding and fell asleep full and content. By the third day of snow I was itching to get outside, see a friend or even do some holiday shopping. After a week and a half of snow days and being confined to the house I was downright grumpy and had no idea what to do with myself except to sit around and indulge in self pity. I did make one ill fated attempt to shovel the snow out of my driveway for two hours only to get stuck again a block from my house which only served to worsen my mood.

So it was that I found myself on the morning of December 25th missing my family, thinking of past holidays as the big fat shining example of what this holiday wasn't and finding myself generally disgruntled. I laid in bed for as long as I could and then slowly made my way downstairs where I found my fiancée had put a pot of coffee on, had plugged in the lights to the Christmas tree, opened up the living room window to the picturesque white wonderland that our yard had become and was contentedly lying on the couch, watching television in a happy daze.

I expressed to him my feelings of discontent and he looked at me in disbelief. "What is there to be sad about?" He asked. "We are healthy, we are warm, we have food in the fridge, a roof over our heads and we have each other." Suddenly I realized just how silly I had been acting. While I had been indulging in self pity over being stuck in the house, I had never once thought about those that don't have a house to be stuck in, or the luxury of generated heat at the touch of a button, a refrigerator full of food or the gentle touch or soothing voice of a loved one. Throughout the day I spoke with my Grandma, my dad, my grandpa, my mom and various other family members. We expressed our love and thankfulness for one another. Johnny (my fiancé) and I went sledding in the snow after which I made chicken sour cream enchiladas for lunch and had Johnny take some extras to an elderly neighbor down the street. By that night some of the snow had melted off and we were able to make our way to a Trailblazers game. As I got ready for bed after the days festivities, I took a moment to take inventory of my life.

I have been blessed with a wealth of sincere, generous, loving family and friends and a phone that lets me keep in touch with them whenever I wish. I have a steady income that allows for me to have a roof over my head, a bed to sleep in and a kitchen stocked with food. I have a fiancée that I cherish, a home full of comforts and a healthy, happy heart. I could not ask for anything more.

There are certainly worse things than being stuck in your house or not being able to get to work and it is important to acknowledge these things and use whatever resources or blessings we have been given to help those that are not as fortunate. I have been lucky enough to be associated with an amazing organization called Hands on Greater Portland and through this organization, I have worked on clothes, food and toy drives, helped to paint and landscape non profit schools, handed out food to the homeless, worked at a battered women’s shelter and looked after animals at the SPCA. These acts have renewed my faith in human kindness, have confirmed just how blessed I really am and have enriched my life beyond measure. As the coming year progresses I hope to be able to share even more of my time, my resources and my energy to helping those less fortunate than I.

And on that note, cheers to the New Year! I hope that it brings each of you happiness, health, and gratitude.

Happy Birthday 2009!

Thalia

Local Pumpkin Patches

2008-10-18T14:11:00.001-07:00

Halloween is just around the corner,

do you know where your pumpkin is?

Below is a list of local pumpkin patches, hay rides and corn mazes. Premiere Events Portland wishes each and every one of you a happy and safe Halloween!

Krugers farm Market

17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd.

Portland, Or. 97231

503-621-3489

www.krugersfarmmarket.com

Plumper Pumpkin Patch

11435 NW Old Cornelius Rd.

portland, Or. 97231

503-645-9561

www.plumperpumpkins.com

The Pumpkin Patch -Sauvie's Island

16511 NW Gillihan Rd.

Portland, Or.

503-621-3874

www.thepumpkinpatch.com

Lee's Pumpkin Patch

21975 SW 65th Ave.

Tualitin, Or. 97062

503-638-1869

www.leefarmsoregon.com

Old McDonald's Farm

1001 SE Evans Rd.

Corbett, Or. 97019

503-695-3316

www.oldmcdonaldsfarm.org

Lake View Farms

32055 NW North Ave.

North Plains, Or. 97133

503-647-2336

www.thelakeviewfarms.com

Hoffmans Dairy Garden

6815 S Knightsbridge Road

Canby, Or. 97013

503-263-6815

www.mawebcenters.com/hoffmanfamilyfarms_5

Liepold Farms

14480 SE Richey Rd.

Boring, Or. 97009

503-663-5880

www.liepoldfarms.com

Baggenstos Farm

15801 SW Roy Rogers Rd.

Sherwood, 97140

503-590-4301

www.baggenstosfarms.com

Heiser Farms

20900 Grand Island Loop

Dayton, Or. 97114

503-868-7512

www.heiserfarms.com

Flower Farmer

2512 N Holly

Canby, Or. 97045

503-266-3581

www.flowerfarmer.com

Olson Farms

22255 SE Borges Road

Damascus, Or. 97089

503-658-2237

www.tricountyfarm.org

Looking for something fun to do with the kids?

2008-09-25T17:16:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 27th, 2008 between the hours of 11am and 3:30pm, farms across America will open their doors to visitors. Mountain Jewel Alpacas of Philomath Oregon (lovcated five miles west of Corvallis) is no exception. Located at 938 N 9th Street Philomath, OR 97370 this farm consists of 25 miles of rolling hills, white oaks and a herd of 15 alpacas. Alpacas are fiber animals that come in 22 natural colors. Learn about these amazing animals up close and personal, see their fiber and fiber products and get a chance to purchase your winter alpaca sock collection. Free ballons, refreshments and alpaca coloring books will be available for the kids. Farm store items iinclude scarves, hats, gloves, sweaters, blankets and more lovely items made of luxurious alpaca!!

For more information about thias event and to read more about Mountain Jewel Alpacas and the products they offer, please visit their website at http://www.mountainjewelalpacas.com

Premiere Events Portland Goes Green

2008-09-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

Premiere Events Portland has gone Green! In an effort to bring you up to the minute ideas, tips, trends and information about trailblazing companies leading the way in green event and wedding planning, I pledge that I will faithfully post blogs about everything I can find to assist you in planning spectacular events and special days without leaving behind a pile of waste in the process!

Please check back often for valuable information and contact us if you have any questions or would like to see any additional information that is not listed here.

To get you started I have listed some companies that are more than deserving of your green. check them out and let me know what you think!

Earthlyaffair.com (earth friendly invitations):

At Earthly Affair, they will work with you to give you the most original and unique wedding invitations created in the most earth friendly way possible. With 100% recycled paper, earth friendly printing methods, an eco equipped studio, and carbon free shipping, they place just as much importance on environmental impact just as important as they do on your satisfaction. But that's just the tip of the iceberg click here for more information and to view these beautiful invitations: http://www.earthlyaffair.com

Terrapass (Reduce your carbon footprint)

Whether traveling for business, pleasure or event related purposes, now you can do something to help fight global warming! Before you travel, visit Terrapass. To date, they have eliminated over 1 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. Curious? Want to be a part of a group that is driving change today? Then what are you still doing on this blog, get over to Terrapass now! :) http://www.terrapass.com

Register Locally Eco Registry (for Green Weddings and Gift Giving)

Here you can register for everything from hemp napkins, recycled materials tea sets to eco friendly baby supplies. There are a ton of items to choose from with prices that are comprable to any major department store. Whether you are in the idea phase or ready to tell the world where you are registered, you owe it to yourself to take a peek at what this website has to offer. http://www.registerlocally.com

Tip of the day: Green Wedding Favors- Instead of expensive favors like mint tins or tulle wrapped candy, why not opt for ebvironmentally friendly wedding favors that will give your family and friends something to treasure for years to come: Flower, Fruit or Vegetable Seed Packets!!!

If you know your friends and family pretty well and know their basic skill level when it comes to planting then that should help you to know what kinds of seeds to purchase for your wedding favors.
If most of your family and friends love gardening, then you could choose a particular plant that is beautiful, but a bit harder to grow. If not many people in your family have a green thumb, then choose something easy where all they have to do is sprinkle the seeds in the grass and water the grass to get some beautiful wildflowers.
To pack the seeds, buy some all natural fabric such as cotton or organic silk and you can make lots of little bags for your seeds with the material. Then, be sure to include a tag on each wedding favor that says what kinds of seeds are in the bag, and some basic care instructions for the seeds you are giving. Another thought is to give out some flower or plant bulbs, though that can get expensive with a lot of wedding guests.

Natural and Home Beauty secrets that WORK!!!

2008-09-05T21:16:00.000-07:00

Greasy hair? Flushed complexion? Sudden breakout? Once upon a time these minor upsets could make or break your special day. Well, not anymore. Below are a ton of natural and home beauty secrets that actually work. So go ahead and bust out the baking soda, avacados and other common household items that we have listed below. Whatever the event, these tips will ensure that no beauty obstacle stands in your way!

1. Powder Your RootsIf your hairline starts to look greasy, dig up a big, fluffy makeup brush, and dip it into a pot of loose powder. Tap it once on the back of your hand to remove the excess, then dust it over your roots. It mops up oil and blends into your strands, so no one will know you didn't shower.

2. Scent Strands with PerfumeSpray a light shot of fragrance into the bristles. Run it through strands from roots to ends and your hair will smell amazing throughout the day.
3. Cure Calluses with VaselineSlather on the petroleum jelly, and put on socks before bed to dissolve tough calluses overnight.

4. Spot-Treat SmudgesDip a cotton swab in eye-makeup remover, and trace it along your lids to erase any slipups or goofs when there's no time to redo your whole look.
5. Fix a Flushed FaceIf you turn red and stay that way after exercising (like seriously red for hours, even though you're healthy and hydrated), take an antihistamine like Benadryl when you leave the gym to reduce redness.

6. Soften Your Bod with AvocadoTake a ripe avocado, remove the pit and skin, and mash it up in a bowl. Slather it all over your body, let it sit for 20 minutes, then rinse off. Your skin will be so soft — avocado is a natural moisturizer.

7. Super-Glue a NailInstead of tearing off your nail when it breaks, put a tiny dab of Super Glue over the split, and paint a generous layer of your favorite nailpolish shade over it. Go for an opaque option (like red, purple, or coral) to camouflage and seal the crack.

8. Use Makeup Remover on Stubborn LipstickDon't try to rub off red lipstick (which makes it smear across your mouth — not so sexy). Instead, take a cotton ball or tissue, dip it in makeup remover, and just dab to erase the dark stain fast.

9. Tame Brows with Eye CreamPat any kind of rich eye cream over brows to help keep them hydrated and banish those icky white specks that look like dandruff.

10. Buff with Baking SodaIf you find yourself streaking (not glowing) after applying self-tanner, put some baking soda on a loofah, and scrub away the stripes.

11. Brush on Hair SprayFor the final step of your blow-dry, spray hair spray onto your brush, and run it through strands from roots to tips. This way, your do isn't so plastered and stiff but still holds volume and shine.

12. Boost Body Lotion with Baby OilIf you're craving shiny legs that aren't greasy, blend a drop of baby oil into your normal body lotion for extra luster.

13. Dab Essential Oil on a HangnailPut on apricot oil, the kind found in health-food stores, to protect cuticles from turning rough and raggedy.

14. Quell a Cold Sore with CreamWhen a cold sore is coming on, dab a bit of thick moisturizer, like Aquaphor, over it to prevent it from getting worse.

15. Freeze Your EyelinerIf the tip of your eyeliner pencil crumbles and smears on your lids, store the liner in the freezer for 15 minutes before use so the tip is firm and goes across your skin smoothly.

16. Use Toothpaste on a ZitUse just a pea-size amount. Let sit for 15 minutes to absorb the oil so the pimple won't get more clogged, then wash off.

17. Heat Up Your CurlerIf you have stick-straight lashes, try blasting your metal eyelash curler with a hair dryer for a couple seconds to heat it up so your lashes bend more easily. And use a waterproof mascara. The formula dries faster than other mascaras, so it sets the curl more effectively.

18. Use Soap Without WaterYou know those fancy bars that are actually too pretty to use? Toss them in your underwear or tee-shirt drawers to make your skin smell delicious.
19. Groom Brows with a ToothbrushMist an (unused!) toothbrush or eyebrow comb with hair spray to help flatten and tame unruly brows.

20. Put Diaper-Rash Cream on Dry SpotsSlather on a thick layer of diaper-rash cream to heal cracked elbows and feet.

21. Lubricate Your LashesAn easy way to draw attention to your eyes without putting on a pile of makeup is to comb petroleum jelly lightly through the tips of eyelashes to get a sexy, subtle sparkle.

22. Spike Lotion with BronzerIf you don't have time to book a self-tanning session, mix a few pumps of body bronzer with regular hand lotion and pat it on your legs for a gradual dose of sexy, beachy color.

23. Air-Dry Your CurlsLet your hair dry indoors before going out in the cold. The curls will be really bouncy and piecey-perfect.

24. Press a Tea Bag on SplotchesIf your skin is sensitive or just looking irritated and puffy for some reason, steep a bag of green tea for a minute or two, let it cool down, and dab it over your face. The antioxidants in the tea take down inflammation.

25. Shave with ConditionerRan out of shaving cream? Do double duty by coating your stems with a thick hair conditioner. It softens the hair so it's easier to shave off and makes legs feel amazingly silky.

26. Amp Shine with VinegarMix one part vinegar with four parts carbonated water, and soak dry hair. Leave on for 15 minutes before you shampoo to lock in shine and combat dullness.

27. Exfoliate Your PitsIf your underarms start to look dry and flaky, an easy trick is to exfoliate them with a gentle face scrub to keep that skin pretty when going sleeveless.

28. Customize Your Body LotionInstead of shelling out for an expensive perfumed body product, you can make your own by pouring a few drops of fragrance into any scent-free lotion. Rub it on-the scent will last for hours.

29. "Brush" with MouthwashIf you're too wiped out after a late night of partying to clean your teeth, rinse with water and mouthwash, then use a dry toothbrush on the area where your teeth hit your gums.

30. Make an Egg-White MaskTo revive tired, dull skin without hitting the spa table, try this: Crack open an egg in a bowl, separate the yolk, and use the egg whites to make a face mask. The proteins help to heal and restore skin's moisture. Leave it on for five minutes, and rinse off.

Make your own RECYCLED PAPER

2008-09-02T21:01:00.000-07:00

For anyone that is interested in making their own hand made recycled paper (and let me just give you my utmost admiration in advance!!!). I would love to take full kudos for this recipe and process but I found it on a wonderful website that is chalk full of great information regarding green weddings and other special events. The website is called Green Weddings wirth Carol Reed Jones: www.ecolivingcenter.com/greenweddings Check it out when you get a chance. It is an amazing site. OK my happy green people. Here goes...

PS...let me know how it turns out. I would love to hear from you :)

Making Recycled PaperEquipment:

Mixed scrap paper
Dishpan or tub
Water
Kitchen blender
Sponge
Newspaper or cardboard
Old towels
Framed screen smaller than the dimensions of the tub. *
Old empty frame smaller than the screen (will be the size of the finished paper).
Lightweight to medium fabric with an interesting texture (will give texture to the paper; use finely woven fabric if you don't want a conspicuous texture)
* Instead of a picture frame, you can use a large, open cookie cutterfor a unique shape such as a heart, tree, etc.

Directions:

Fill the blender about two thirds full of water. Tear up two 8 1/2" x 11" sheets of scrap paper into pieces the size of postage stamps. Add a handful to the blender and blend until cloudy , about 20 seconds. Put this in the tub and add water until tub is half full; the resultantmixture is called slurry. Blend the rest of the scraps with water in this same manner, and add to the slurry in the tub. The thicker the slurry, the thicker the paper will be, and vice versa. To incorporate dried leaf pieces or flower petals the easy way, just add them to the slurry at this point. But they won't be visible if your paper is too thick.Place the empty frame on top of the screen, and hold securely with yourhands. Have someone stir up the slurry so that all the paper fibers do not sink to the bottom of the tub. Dip the screen and frame down into the slurry with a scooping motion, and quickly lift it out of the tub, keeping it level. Hold it over the tub to allow water to drain. Brush or peel away excess paper fibers outside the empty frame, and return them to the slurry. Remove the frame, lifting straight up, and you should have a fairly decent square of homemade paper. Place a newspaper or piece of cardboard on it, and flip everything over--frame, new paper, screen, cardboard. Leaving the screen in place, blot the paper with a sponge, pressing each area once and wringing it out. Lift screen off of paper, tapping it gently if it sticks. If desired, you can add confetti, glitter, dried flowers or small leaves at this stage. Place them exactly where you want them on the paper, and pour a miniscule amount of slurry on them to cement in place. Japanese maple leaves look nice, especially if the slurry has tiny twigs and bits of leaf. Now cover the paper with your textured fabric, and continue to sponge water out of the paper until it is as dry as possible. To give your paper texture, iron it between two pieces of textured fabric. The paper will pick up the weave pattern. If you're making your own invitations, keep in mind that the smallest size of postcard or envelope the post office will take is 3 1/2" x 5".

So, the basic steps are: Blend, scoop, peel off extra, blot and iron.

Green Wedding tips

2008-08-31T13:53:00.000-07:00

One of my recent undertakings has been to get the word out and see what kind of interest I can generate in having a "Green Wedding Showcase" here in Portland. Think the "Green Brides Guide to Planning the Perfect Wedding" or something similiar. In my quest to find affordable, fun solutions that will assist in planning a sustainable wedding, I have included some basic tips below:

For gorgeous cakes with no waste try "Edible Flowers":

If you can't pick the flowers the day of the wedding, store them, exceptfor chicory, on plates in your fridge with a bit of water.ChicoryThese pale lavender-blue daisy-like flowers have very fragile petals,and grow almost directly off of the main stems.

You can pick entire stems a day in advance if needed, and store them in water. Pick them off the main stem carefully just before placing on the cake. They open around noon. Spicy bitter taste.

Lavender: Even if the lavender blooms aren't opened, the un-bloomed bud clusterslook like purple-blue braid, making an attractive edging or accent. Perfumed taste.

Nasturtium: These come in all warm colors from cream to burgundy, the most commonbeing orange and yellow. Peppery taste.

Oregano: Clusters of tiny pink flowers clusters on burgundy stems.

Marjoram: is the same, only less pink. Spicy taste.

Pansy: has a wide range of colors, from purple and yellow; to pink, darkrose and purple; to midnight blue. Fragile petals, so don't pick them and dump them in a bag, or they'll get crushed. Semi-sweet taste.

Rose: Wide range of colors, mostly in the warm spectrum; use buds for atraditional look, and watch for aphids. Mildly sweet taste.

* When using edible flowers, use only flowers that have been organically grown, unsprayed and not growing by a roadside.

Green Ways to cut wedding costs:

* Select a venue where you can have both the ceremony and the reception.
* Choose only in season flowers and, if possible, grow some or all of the flowers yourself or have friends and/or family plant flowers for you. In order to save even more money, you can buy flowerd wholesale and rent a book from the library on flower arranging in order to do the arrangements yourself.
*Save on wedding attire by renting, wearing heirloom wedding clothes, buying secondhand or buying clothes at sales at bridal fairs (Check newspapers).
*For wedding favors, give each guest a Haiku or special message hand printed on a piece of recycled paper. Structurally, a haiku poem usually consists of three lines of five,seven, and five syllables respectively. It can describe a moment in nature or capture the feeling of your special day.

Event Planning Checklist

2008-07-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

To put on any great event, you need to stay organized, meet deadlines and keep track of what you have completed and what you still need to take action on. I have compiled a sample Event Timeline for all those individuals out there that are putting on an event and may be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the details. Be sure that when you create a timeline for your event, you add two columns to the right hand side of your timeline. One column should be your target date for completion of each task and the 2nd column should be the date you actually complete each task. Creating a timelne / checklist may not eliminate all stress and/or confusion, but it should at least get you started in the right direction!

Four to Six Months Ahead:

Confirm number of attendees
Set budget
Perform site inspections
Reserve venue
Book Entertainment
Book speakers
Set preliminary Agenda
Begin collecting phone numbers and email mailing addresses of participants
Determine Theme (if applicable)

Two to Three Months Ahead:

Assemble the meeting or event package (announcements, registration, venue information, etc...) for participants
Mail invitations and/or registration packages
Confirm speakers and panelists
Contact caterers
Contact wine and spirit suppliers
contact florists
Confirm AV requirements
Contact Av and computer Specialists
Order gifts and other giveaways

One to Two Months Ahead:

Make sure all contracts are signed
Review contracts with legal counsel
Review speakers assign,ents
Review all menus, room setups. etc...
Review equipment list with technicians
Begin assembling ideas for registration (kits, badges, vouchers, etc...)
Finalize menus
Finalize Decor and floral arrangements

One Month Ahead:

Rehearse format with the venue and determine room setups, podium placements, etc...
Make sure there are enough electrical outlets
Gather necessary equipment cables
Discuss which welcome basket will be in which room if using a hotel
Alert your venue to your VIP's
Confirm guest list

Ten Days Ahead:

Draft another checklist to ensure that nothing was overlooked
Review the guest list
Prepare seating charts

Three Days Ahead:

Prepare name tags and badges
Verify banquet orders
Confirm all special services (catering, floral arrangements, etc...)
Assemble a tool kit for emergencies (include masking tape, pens, extension cords, etc...remember whatever CAN go wrong, WILL go wrong :)

The Day Before:

Go over checklist again
Get cash ready for gratuities
Review duties with staff members
Make sure signage and directions are complete
Prepare a list of critical phone numbers
Confirm outside vendors (e.g. AV specialist, musicians, chauffeurs)
Accumulate all delegated materials

The Day of:

Bring your checklist and notebook
Bring your assembled "emergency tool kit"
Bring your important phone numbers
Have the alphabetized attendee list and name tags available at reception desk or registration table.
Have extra name tags
Have a guest head count
Set out table numbers and place cards according to your seating chart
Solicit business cards and cell phone numbers from on site staff

After your event:

Pay outstanding bills
Write Thank you notes
Complete expenditure list and compare against budget
Distribute gratuities.

Good luck and happy planning! :)

Get Out and Get Green!!

2008-06-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in sustainability and doing business with companies that promote a healthy and environmentally friendly way of life, then you certainly are in the right place. The Northwest is rich in individuals and establishments that are dedicated to generating and adhering to green solutions in the hopes that we can leave this planet a little better off than we found it and create the healthiest, happiest lives for ourselves, our families and future generations. If you share these ideals and are looking to find fun, local outings that promote a sustainable lifestyle, then you certainly won't want to miss these upcoming events:

North American Organic Brewers Festival
June 27-29
Overlook Park, Portland

The North American Organic Brewers Festival celebrates the diversity and range of beer styles being brewed organically; from pilsner to pale ale, saison to stout, amber ale to lambics. Brewers from across Cascadia, the heart of organic brewing, pour their beers alongside organic pioneers from Europe, such as Pinkus Mueller from Muenster, Germany. Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Northern California, often referred to as Cascadia, lead the continent in the number of organic breweries, with nearly half of Oregon’s 80 breweries having produced an organic beer since the first Organic Brewers Symposium in 2002.

SW Washington Sustainability Conference & Tradeshow
July 10-11
Vancouver Hilton Hotel and Conference Center

The SW Washington Sustainability Conference & Tradeshow will inspire, engage and challenge attendees to reach for higher levels of ethical stewardship and ecological, economic and social success. The conference features three separate tracks - climate, commerce and community - with thought-provoking speakers from across the country sharing global knowledge and practical experience during two full days. This event offers an excellent environment to highlight your company or organization. An estimated 400 energetic, diverse professionals engaged in a variety of sectors, private and public, are expected to attend the conference. About 50 exhibitors representing various sectors – energy, built environment, natural resources and more - are also expected to be part of this important event.

SW Washington Community GreenFest
July 12
Marine Park and the Water Resources Education Center. Vancouver

The Community GreenFest is a free community sustainability festival along the Columbia River at Marine Park and the Water Resources Education Center, 4600 SE Columbia Way. The festival will feature free workshops, activities, exhibits, displays, vendors, food, music and lively fun, designed to engage the entire community in healthy and smart day-to-day sustainable practices. Applications are now being accepted for a limited number of 10'x10' spaces for commercial vendors/exhibits and non-profit displays/exhibits.

Green Sprouts Organic Baby and Family Festival
September 13
Peninsula Park

Green Sprouts is a fun, festive and educational one-day event for the whole family that celebrates and promotes the nurturing of life through nature. From pregnancy to childhood, parents can learn about and explore eco-friendly, community-involved, natural, and healthy options to raising their families. Children can enjoy tons of activities, art and crafts, music and entertainment, and more!