Wine Industry Highlight - Youngberg Hill

I had the pleasure of visiting Youngberg Hill last week. To see their venue, bed and breakfast, and taste their wines. Wow! I am not sure I have all the words to describe the space, bed and breakfast, wine, but mostly the owner - Nicolette. She and her husband have done what some of us dream. Visit an area, are really into something, find a perfect destination and space, and jump at a dream. That is entirely what they have done and man, do they do an exceptional job - with everything!

It is hard to be good at one thing, but to be amazing at all the balls you juggle is quite extraordinary and should be recognized and emulated.

Their space speaks for itself. Perfectly planned and designed. I mean, who builds in two bars and a catering truck backup?!? They do. Who has the tenting to make an outdoor venue work in the Pacific Northwest's ever impending rain? They do. Who has the onsite lodging for your VP and President, Board members, Corporate partners, family? They do. And, who makes the wine to back up their amazing additions? You guessed it...they do.

I don't have very many pictures I just want to drive you to their website. Check it out. It is the perfect location for a retreat, afternoon corporate excursion, board meeting, wine maker dinner, and of course a wedding.

Thank you Youngberg Hill, I had an fabulous time visiting! I cannot wait to go back.

Wedding Wednesday

When I was writing the decor Wednesday on my other blog, Arthur and Lancelot's Adventures, I stumbled upon this amazing wedding that Ink and Peat did the florals for.

Thank you to Ink and Peat for sharing the gorgeous wedding of Emily and John that Style Me Pretty first featured and the photos that Rebekah Johnson took. The event was held at the Garden Vineyards in Hillsboro.

What I love most is the simplicity and character. So perfect, so easy, so gorgeous.

Upon arrival guests were greeted! Always have something that
not only welcomes guests, but also gives them a feel for the event.

Ink & Peat did an amazing job.

I am pretty sure many may think a styled photobooth has been overdone,
however I completely disagree. Especially when it is done with mustaches
and right when your guests arrive. Gives them something to do while waiting.

The outdoor ceremony paired incredibly with the
bouquet and easy setting of the entire affair.

Incredible wedding!

PS, with an amazing venue your decorations can be very simple and easy. No need to spend a ton on decor with a fabulous setting. Keep that in mind when looking at venues.

Tuesdays - Timing

Since my background is nonprofit, corporate, fundraising events, when planning an event, the first thing I think about is my budget. This may not be the most fun part about planning an event, but let's face it, every event should have a budget and things should fall into place based on this detail.

Especially, if you are planning a nonprofit event or fundraiser, please keep in mind your budget and plan accordingly.

Every Tuesday we hope to feature some budget saving ideas when planning any event, whether it be corporate, nonprofit, wedding or even your next dinner party. These are still tough times, but that does not mean you have to sacrifice style to save a buck.

Let's talk about timing...when planning your next event remember a couple of timing ways to save some cash.

1. Weekday Event versus Weekend Event
Venues are always looking to maximize their space and if you are willing to plan your event on a weekday, you can definitely negotiate a lower rate. Not only will you be filling their space, but chances are the time you spend in their space will be less hours than a weekend event. This is a Win Win for both. So the next time you are looking for a space check out Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or even Thursdays for your venue rates.

2. October - November, January - February Events
Depending on your location and if you want an outdoor event these times of year may not work for you, but if you can swing it these months are usually less in-demand and less costly. Check around you may be surprised! Or call me, I have some ideas!

3. Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktail Hour
Why not plan a breakfast? This is a wonderful time to capture corporate or nonprofit partners and the cost of a meal is far less than a dinner. Also, lunch can be a great way to engage a clientele or get the family together pre-wedding. Cocktail hour is always a fabulous time, only a couple of hours needed, maximize your time with your guests- aka mingle-like-you-mean-it or network, network, network, and then send them on their way to complete their evening, etc. These times of events are always really helpful to people with children. Keep this in-mind when scheduling.

PS, Brunch is also a great time to entertain your friends and won't break into their day.

Remember, regardless the budget, every event can and should be fabulous. With a little careful planning you can always achieve your goals.

Questions? Comments? Help? Let's talk!