Guy's Night Out So much of the wedding planning process revolves around the bride, but we know many grooms are equally invested in their wedding day and perhaps, a little more so, in their bachelor party. We partnered with Elijah Craig Bourbon, 2017’s Whisky of the Year according to Whisky Advocate, to bring you inspirational images that reveal a rugged and refined approach to a gentleman’s night out before the big day. We’ve all heard that saying, “What happens in Vegas, Stays in ... View Post
What’s the difference between a Wedding/Event Coordinator and a Venue Coordinator?
Until you start planning your wedding or special event, you likely wouldn't know the difference and that in fact these are two very different roles. I'll explain the differences so you can feel confident making decisions for your special day. As a wedding and event professional, my role is to advocate for you, my client, and have your best interests at heart. From set to strike, I'm onsite following a comprehensive and thoughtfully planned production schedule ensuring event partners arrive ... View Post
An Adventure-Themed Baby Shower
"A new baby is like the beginning of all things...hope, a dream of possibilities." Eda LaShan Having a baby, especially your first child, is such an exciting time for expectant parents, grandparents, family and friends. This was no exception for Meredith. Joined by friends, colleagues, and family from near and far. Surrounded with love, Meredith was showered with a bounty of gifts for Baby Carson. Taking our cues from inspiration images shared with us, we set the stage at Norfolk Yacht & ... View Post
What a Year (and a half)! A Retrospective.
In 2015 I left a full-time event planning job working for a graduate medical school. I had been working there just shy of six years and come to really love my colleagues. It was by far the best position I've had and I truly enjoyed working for the organization. Things on a personal level were changing for my family and I was needed at home. My work schedule was no longer conducive to being a working mother. A Lively Affair was conceived based on my need to continue working in a career in which ... View Post
Pancakes & Pajamas, An Annual Kid’s Christmas Party
On our sweet little street, filled with rough and tumble boys, it's become a tradition to celebrate Christmas with an annual Pancakes & Pajamas breakfast. As I, and nearly everyone else with children has said, there is something quite magical about experiencing the delights of the holiday through the eyes of a child who BELIEVES. To keep the breakfast-themed affair fresh year after year, I decide on a new concept, color palette and peek online to see what Oriental Trading, one of my ... View Post
E.T. Gresham: A Family Legacy Built in Norfolk {Corporate Events}
Want to know a secret? I LOVE planning corporate events! Ok, so it wasn’t that big of a secret, but I really do love meeting with my client and brainstorming ways to bring their brand to an event and making it every bit as special as what they do. I had the upmost privilege to plan the 100th anniversary celebration for E.T. Gresham, one of Hampton Roads premier construction companies, at Norfolk Yacht & Country Club. ... View Post