Total Events Management

Hi, I’m getting married at the “X” and I need rentals!

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:26:00 GMT

Finding the correct service provider for your vendor of choice

After you find the right space to hold your event, the next step is finding the right people to help you design your vision. By reading this article, you have done just that. Total Events has worked in just about every venue in the Capital Region and its surrounding areas. Because of our knowledge of these spaces, our knowledgeable staff can be even more helpful to you!

There are many options available to you in terms of dressing up a space. The top 5 problems and solutions are as follows:

1. I’m having my ceremony in the same space as the reception, how can I make it look different?
A: Drapery! We have a large selection of drapery for you to choose from that will properly punctuate your ceremony space without breaking the bank. Some venues, such as the Hall of Springs in Saratoga require some extra tall drapery to accent the dramatic columns inside the ballroom. We have custom cut drapery to accommodate specific rooms. We also create custom fabric arches, chuppahs and mandup's that are sure to please.

2. My reception is inside a tent and I need to dress it up.
A: Easy! Total Events specializes in both tent swags (fabric drapery panels hung through the inside of a tent) and tent liners (complete tent ceiling coverage option). For venues such as The Sagamore’s Shelving Rock Terrace, we have perfected the art of ceiling swags. We have a variety of options available so that each bride can have a custom look for an incredibly reasonable cost. The best value is that we have done this type of décor for so long that the process has become faster, easier and more affordable then ever before!

3. The chairs at my venue don’t go with my wedding décor, what are my options?
A: The first option is to use a chair cover. Total Events has a variety of chair cover options to suite a variety of reception styles and colors. Our chair covers can be easily installed and removed by our staff or yours and will transform the look of almost any banquet chair. The next option would be to rent another chair that better accents your décor choices. We offer Chiavari chairs in 5 of the most popular finishes along as well as a large variety of folding chairs.

4. How can I make my wedding look different from the others that have been hosted at the same venue?
A: Linens and Lighting make a huge impact inside a room. Changing your linens from a blank White or Ivory to specialty linen will immediately change the look of the room. Adding some texture, color or sheen to a table top works magic. Lighting is the other big impact item. This feature will enhance the architecture in the space, set the mood and create ambiance. For instance, deep red lighting portrays a romantic and dramatic effect while an amber glow conveys subtle warmth and softness. We can create a lighting package for any room!

5. How far do you travel for events?
A: The majority of our weddings are in Saratoga Springs, Lake George and the Albany area. However, we routinely travel to the Hudson Valley, the Cooperstown area and all the way up to Lake Placid for events. We don’t have a predetermined service area, and would be happy to provide a quote for any bride in need of services.

Total Events has all of the specialty décor, custom event rental options and wedding accents you design the day of your dreams. Visit our website at www.totaleventsny.com for photos and ideas!

You Need To Be At The Next Show - Why it's important to attend industry trade shows

Mon, 14 May 2012 15:05:00 GMT

The economy has been difficult to navigate for all business in the last few years. More than anything, a tough economy has bonded professionals together and encouraged a return to more personal relationships, better customer service and some much needed innovation in products. The trade show circuit combines networking with the introduction of new product innovations, making these events more important than ever.

Some businesses have had to cut their marketing budget and being an exhibitor at trade shows can be an expensive venture. If you find that you are unable to exhibit at a show you have always displayed at, make sure you still attend as a guest. It is still important to be in front of the rest of the industry, even if it is simply from a show goer’s perspective. Use the time to focus on what other business are producing, how they display their services and in what ways you can improve upon your own exhibit. Keep in mind that a lot of new products developed have been developed in 2011 as the economy began its rise back up, and they’ll need to be rolled out at 2012 shows.

No one wants to take time out of an already packed schedule to attend anything optional, but go anyway. The opportunity to speak with colleagues is important and can only help you in the long run. Become acquainted with the ways your competitors are marketing themselves from a different perspective. Having your biggest competition pitch their product to you will give you incredible insight and allow you to understand how to more effectively align yourself in the market.

The biggest draw to go is to take advantage of specials that may be available at a trade show. Many businesses offer promotional rates and convention deals to entice their audience to purchase. Know what products and services you need to acquire before heading to the show and you will certainly walk away with some bargains.

If you have questions about an upcoming trade show or convention, contact the experts at Total Events, the leader is Upstate Expo services! Visit our website at www.conventionexposervices.com.

Wedding Rentals - Help me, help you!

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:55:00 GMT

Wedding Rentals
Help me, help you!

Total Events receives dozens of inquiries every week for all different types of events. Weddings top the list, with the highest volume of interest. About 50% of brides search out their rentals 6-9 months in advance of their wedding date. 25% book a year or more ahead and 25% wait until just 6 months before their big day to make the call. Here are a few tips and tricks of the trade to assist you with your tent and wedding rentals.

Each year we see stiff competition for certain dates, which increases the need to be aggressive in securing your vendors. Memorial Day weekend, the entire month of June, the 4th of July, all of September and New Year’s Eve are the biggest “sell out” dates we see at Total Events. Events during these times should be booked as far in advance as possible. While we do tend to sell out most weekends in April, May, July, August and October as well, there is more flexibility in ordering. The key is to call early to ensure that you get exactly what you want.

Many clients want to “sleep on it”, which is understandable and in most cases harmless. Indecision about linens, décor items and other particulars should not stop you from booking your event rentals. If you find that you can’t decide on which linens to select or if you want to add ceiling swags or paper lanterns, go ahead and book your event without them and add them back in when you make your decision. Confirming your tent, tables, chairs, dance floor and restroom trailer should take precedence over décor items which can be included upon later. Don’t risk loosing out on the major items because of the smaller details.

Bigger is better when it comes to a tent. If you are between two tent sizes, select the next size up to ensure that you have ample space for your guests in case of inclement weather. A larger tent will ensure that you tables aren’t place directly up against the tent sides, where wind or rain could bother your guests. Some brides envision the tent to be completely open and guests milling around outside the tent, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas. Always plan for the worst, which will make the best case scenario even better should it happen. Ideally, everyone will have a sunny and comfortable wedding day but unfortunately that isn’t always the case.

Other Tips!

-A photo is worth a thousand words. If you have images of décor or layouts that you like, please let us see them!
-Have a budget in mind when booking your rentals. We can guide you into options that best fit your budget and décor expectation if we know what parameters to work within.
-If you are looking to decorate inside of a venue, photos and dimensions of the space are very important.
-Putting a tent up on private property is far easier than on public property such as a local park or venue property. Keep in mind that most public property requires you to set-up and breakdown all rental items on the same day as your event which can be costly.

Total Events has all of the specialty décor, custom event rental options and wedding accents you design the day of your dreams.

Trade Show Decorating - Why it's important to "make it pretty"

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:14:00 GMT

Skeptics would say that a convention is about business and not style. These skeptics are wrong. From the moment we step out of bed, the decisions we make are based on what looks good. Clothes, food, cars, houses… we live in a world of coveting what looks desirable. A trade show is no different. Let Total Events style your next convention so that attendees will want to be there.

The main element of a trade show is the exhibitor booths and if they look boring, so does your show. Total Events has the solution for these boring booths. Our extensive collection of fabrics and drapery colors and styles combined with unique linens to replace that dull table skirting will flip the generic trade show floor on its head. Now that we have the bones of your event amped up, we can focus on the details.

Signage is important when promoting a business or product; take the opportunity to make it great. Custom balloons are also a great way to grab attention and spread the word about your business or product. Total Events can create custom signage and promotional balloons for your vendors, adding to the distinctive design of their space.

Making the space inviting for attendees is a major component to keep them on the show floor as long as possible. Create an attendee lounge for guests to rest their weary bones in. Given a few minutes to relax and enjoy a refreshment will rejuvenate your crowd and persuade them to take another lap through the show space to check back in on any exhibits they may have missed the first time around.

Give guests a break from business and let me relax. Total Events can accommodate Casino tables, Carnival games and other entertainment requests for your upcoming event. Adding some amusement will lighten the mood and enhance the friendly vibe of the tradition. Encouraging guests to let their hair down and network more socially takes the pressure off of what can be a dry, tense environment.

If you have questions about an upcoming trade show or convention, contact the experts at Total Events, the leader is Upstate Expo services! Visit our Convention & Expo Services page!

Trendy

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:49:00 GMT

Trendy
3 things to try at your 2012 Trade Show

1. Video
A well executed video about your company and services is an excellent way to convey who you are. Vendors often struggle with explaining their services to every attendee walking by, making a video loop is extremely helpful. Clearly directed towards your company’s message, a video will cut staffing needs, provide an impressive visual display and target your key market. You will never miss the opportunity to reach out to a potential client again!

2. Color
There is no reason to blend into the background of a boring convention. Total Events services extend far beyond the standard booth set-up. Our extensive collection of fabrics, draperies and linens are sure to set your space apart. Creating the proper backdrop for your booth will increase traffic, attention and interest to your space. Display your company colors, a fresh new sign and you are miles ahead of the game.

3. QR Codes
Want to bring people directly to your website? Display a custom QR code in your booth! These custom generated matrix barcodes when scanned by a smart phone will instantly bring the user to the programmed website. You can even set-up a website specifically for attendees of the trade show with information on how to contact you, where to obtain additional information and any show promotions you are running. Never before has information been so literally at our fingertips, take advantage!

If you have questions about an upcoming trade show or convention, contact the experts at Total Events, the leader is Upstate Expo services! Visit our website at www.conventionexposervices.com.

2012 Trend Report

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:45:00 GMT

2012 Trend Report
The elements that will make your event #amazing!

1. Color
Neutral palettes are out and rich, deep tones are what’s happening in the event world! Dark red and berry tones are all over the forecast for 2012. Romantic and elegant these colors can turn edgy and modern with a few twists. We can’t wait to see our wedding tents lit up with these colors bursting with our LED lighting!

2. Accents
More than ever we are seeing brides dazzle us with their knack for accessorizing their space. Charger plates, personalized table linens, custom monogram lighting projected on the walls, ceiling and dance floor. We just love the steps people are taking to bring their wedding up to the next level.

3. Metallic's
There will be a shine on all of our events this year, because our clients love metallic! Gold and Silver are popping up everywhere. Finishing an event design with a touch of shimmer helps to reflect candle light and provide a dimensional glow that is especially romantic. Total Events has all new centerpiece options to help you achieve this look!

4. Family Style Seating
Long, family style seating seems to be the wave of the future. Our Emperor tables have helped our brides achieve this feeling, with the extra width to create space for a stunning centerpieces as well as family style dining options. This type of table also helps with conversation, making guests feel closer to each other without sacrificing a gorgeous tablescape.

5. Ceremony Décor
Never before have we set so many custom Chuppah’s, mandap’s and wedding arches! Brides are really taking their ceremony to the next level, with seating in the round, opulent arches and beautiful drapery.

Total Events has all of the specialty décor, custom event rental options and wedding accents you design the day of your dreams. Visit our website at www.totaleventsny.com for photos and ideas!

It’s No Gamble - How to Use a Casino Night as a networking tool.

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:11:00 GMT

Attending a convention can sometimes be intimidating if you are going it alone and don’t know other people at the show. Total Events can offer you the most exciting tool to remedy this common problem, a Casino Night! You may now slap your forehead and mutter “Why didn’t I think of that?” several times.

A Total Events Casino Night is the ideal tool for networking functions. There are no awkward silences or cliques of people hovering around the same cocktail table. With a Casino Night the action is at the tables and people can make casual conversation as they (pause for reaction) enjoy themselves! There is no better way to present yourself than organically, as you have a good time. This scenario casts a great light on everyone, from the host of the party to the attendee who is hoping to expand their business contacts.

Perhaps you have done a “Vegas Night” before and want something new a different. We have that too. We can switch this theme in a dozen ways. Total Events also offers a Wild West Gambling Saloon, Disco Gaming Lounge, Island gaming theme, or a Video Horse Racing party. Creating a fantasy inside the networking space will encourage participants to come out of their shells and embrace the chance to meet new people in a stress free manner. Total Events takes all of the guess-work out of booking your next event with our custom Casino packages tailored to events of all sizes!

Where did you get those insert items of fabulous nature?

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:56:00 GMT

You are newly engaged and have decided to embark on the great journey through the area to find the reception venue of your dreams. Like the brides who have come before you, you wonder “How can I make this space special?” after seeing photos of it from several hundred other weddings. The task can sometimes be daunting to come up with something new, unique and downright YOU. Total Events is here to open up a world of amazing rental items to help you on your way from standard to spectacular.

Generally, booking a wedding at a particular venue will afford you the same options as the rest of the brides using that space. Using the same room, chairs, linens and china in general will make your room look similar to all the rest. What’s fabulous about using an Event Rental company? We can change all that. You don’t have to worry about repeating another bride’s choice; you can start fresh and create your very own. We are able to offer you a variety of tables; sizes and shapes that a venue wouldn’t carry. We have a large inventory of chairs, including a selection of Chiavari chairs in 5 finishes. To call our inventory of linen a selection is an understatement. We have custom linen lots made of imported fabrics from all around the country. Total Events also offers lighting packages and drapery options for nearly any venue. We can customize our inventory of fabrics to suit any need or design expectation.

For the bride who wants to create her very own space, a Total Events tent is the way to go. Starting from the ground up we can build for you a custom reception area. Total Events offers flooring, tent liners, lighting packages, restroom trailers and beyond. Our tent rental services are only the tip of the iceberg!

The items that you may have never thought to upgrade can sometimes make the biggest statement. Have you ever considered a Black and White dance floor? Maybe Confetti Cannons shot off as you make your grand entrance into the reception would make the perfect statement. Would you like to have your cocktail space converted into a modern lounge with illuminated bars and ultra sleek furniture? We can do all of this and more! Just by calling Total Events you are already on your way to an amazingly distinctive event!

Ready, Set, Savings

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:01:00 GMT

1,2,3 Promotion makes having a winter event even more affordable.

While many of us dread the cold, winter months in Upstate New York there is much to be said about a perfectly styled winter event. The icy color schemes, candlelit ceremonies and snowy landscapes enhance an evening in a major way. Although the rest of the world may seem to slow down during the cooler months, Total Events has created a way to turn the volume up for our clients this November through February 2012.

The 1,2,3 Promotion combines the elements that everyone is looking for in a simple, effective and cost conscious way. Putting together in one promotion the items that make the most impact in any room, Total Events has made creating a breathtaking even easier. 10% off lighting packages, 20% off Chiavari Ballroom chairs and 20% off in-stock linens and chair covers. Never before could an event look so good for this price! Click here for a sample of our Chiavari Chairs.

Our inventory is always expanding to fulfill the latest trends in Event design. The Chiavai chair collection contains chairs in Gold, Silver, White, Fruitwood and Black varnishes. We stock a variety of specialty linens such as Pintuck, Galaxy, Damask, Polyester, Satin Stripe and beyond. We stock chair covers to fit nearly every ballroom chair in the area that are guaranteed to be of the highest quality. Finally, our state of the art L.E.D. lighting equipment can give you the latest and greatest effects in any room. Exceptional rentals at an unbeatable price!

And The Winner Is...

Thu, 12 May 2011 19:17:00 GMT

Being acknowledged by the U.S. Small Business Administration

From kindergarten on, we attend ceremonies honoring our achievements. Sometimes these acknowledgements are purely ceremonial and others are quite substantial in meaning. Total Events was recently awarded the 2011 Small Business Excellence award, a title which recognizes determination, hard work and savvy business models. Small business creates about 70% of new jobs and is the driving force behind local growth. It was our distinct honor to be given this tremendous tribute.

Seated inside a gorgeous ballroom at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Albany, NY the awards luncheon kicked off. Vice President, Melissa Carrier took the stage and accepted the Excellence Award among fellow business owners, local officials and a ballroom packed with association members. Among the many thanks she graciously extended to employees and clients alike, she neglected to acknowledge the very biggest of thanks; one that should in no uncertain terms go to herself and her husband; Rich Carrier. Total Events started as a small idea located in the basement office of their home and sprouted into a business that handles several hundred events yearly. There is no lack of perseverance when it comes to growing a small business into an area staple and the Carrier’s have proved just how much they’ve got.

From modest beginnings inside the vast kitchens of Las Vegas hotels, Rich worked on a degree in hospitality at the University of Nevada – Las Vegas. He built a reputation in American’s playground managing the banquet staff of the Las Vegas Hilton and Rio Hotel. At the same time, Melissa was traveling coast to coast in a sales position with a national computer brand. Eventually returning to the Upstate New York area during the late 1990’s in an effort to be closer to family, the dream team of Event and Design (Rich) combined with Sales and Marketing (Melissa) and Total Events was born. There were a great deal of growing pains along the way, but the unshakable need to succeed pushed them through into new avenues of business and larger markets.

Today, more than 11 years after the conception of Total Events, we continue to grow at a steady pace. What was one an operation based out of a basement and tractor trailer has blossomed into a sprawling 24,000 square foot warehouse with more than thirty employees and a reputation for superiority. A business who once rented small décor items, tables and chairs is now a full service Event décor and rental company servicing weddings, conventions, trade shows and social events throughout the northeast. We’ve ridden the wave of economic uncertainty, inflated fuel prices and declines in area employment and diversified our business model to accommodate the need for industry change. Total Events has grown and adapted to the ambiguity that surrounds us all, which has strengthened our ties to the community, our commitment to customer service and insistence on quality.

Congratulations to Rich and Melissa for more than a decade of ambition and fortitude!

The Sweet Resurgence

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:46:00 GMT

Sweet 16’s are back in action and bigger than ever!

The popular show “My Super Sweet Sixteen” showcases the economic anomaly that is the uber wealthy family throwing a party of epic proportions for their adolescent offspring. To refer to these events as a party is on par with referring to a diamond as a rock; it is just so much more than that. Professional stylists, celebrity performers, guest counts in the hundreds and in most cases, a new sports car to drive home are some of the many highlights to these affairs. Here in the Capital Region of New York, we are seeing the Sweet 16 industry begin to blossom as a fresh event perspective without all the hype shown on TV.

Just last weekend, Total Events had the pleasure of working on two very special Sweet 16’s. The first event was Las Vegas themed, complete with casino tables and the glitz of the strip. The second event transported guests back to the days of disco balls, bell bottoms and light-up dance floors. What we’re seeing is the dawn of a new era of party people, kids. Some of the most detail oriented events we have worked on involve 1st birthdays, Sweet 16’s, Bar/Bat Mitzvah’s, Proms and Graduations. It stands to reason that as these youngsters grow up; their expectations for their wedding will be exceptionally more grandiose than the previous generation. Picking from package A, B or C is beginning to seem about as old school as having your milk delivered to your front door each morning.

Down economy or not, parents are still shelling out the money for over the top events. Unlike a wedding, these bashes are always paid for by the family. Celebrating our children’s achievements and special occasions has become a top priority and keeping up with the Jones’ is harder and harder to do. What is perhaps the best part is that the details and importance of the event are there without a lot of the pressure and jitters of the client, you typically see at a wedding. Emotions are of pure, unadulterated excitement without the cold feet and runaway bride scenarios everyone in the industry cringes at the idea of.

The typical Sweet 16 includes a party planner and professional photographer, caterer, hair & make-up, décor and entertainment. The goal is always the same; make your friends jealous while appearing effortlessly nonchalant about the details. With event professionals working to diversify their client base, venue’s trying to fill their space each weekend and everyone looking to expand the market, it seems that the Sweet 16’s trend has matured at just the right time.

Photos Courtesy of Tiffany Wayne Photography

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Budget Events

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:59:00 GMT

The 1, 2, 3’s of planning a cost effective Event.

Everyone has a budget, even Donald Trump. Regardless of how much money you have to spend on a special occasion, there is a limit for us all. Most people find themselves struggling with what they want and what they can pay for. The battle between what we can afford and what we have envisioned is many times a tough pill to swallow and sticker shock is something that most people can relate to in the planning process.

Tip #1: Book during the off-season
For Upstate New York, the event season slows down significantly between November through February. During these months, vendors are more flexible with pricing and in many cases will offer cost saving promotions. Avoiding the summer months and early fall may be less than ideal, but you will be glad you did when you reflect on the savings. If you do choose this time of year, Friday’s and Sunday’s can often be a negotiation for savings. Stay away from (most) Holiday weekends as well. Labor Day weekend, Columbus Day weekend, New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day weekend and the 4th of July are all incredibly busy dates. Ironically, Easter weekend and Thanksgiving weekend are generally fairly quiet and may offer you some flexability on price.

Tip #2: Go to the source
While sometimes it may be tempting to let others secure items or services for you, you might be spending un-necessary money. When a vendor secures a service for you through another company, they often inflate the cost of it to cover their time.

Tip #3: Book in advance
Waiting until the last minute to sign on the dotted line is a dangerous game that I don’t advise anyone to play. While some may think that they can secure a reduced rate for the service if it is still available, you are taking a huge risk which is not worth the reward. In many cases, booking early may entitle you to added discounts. At the very least, you will be better able to access your budget once you have everything set in stone with signatures and deposits.

While compromise is something that many of us avoid like plague, it is often a necessary beast in the war against overspending. In the end, following these three simple steps will help you to better afford the Event you have been tirelessly planning for so long. Getting things out of the way early will certainly help you gain some peace of mind and lift much of the pressure off of your plate that tends to appear as the Event draws closer.

Keeping Your Vendors and Attendants Happy

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:59:00 GMT

A Guide to a Successful Trade Show

They’re referred to by many names; conventions, trade shows, expos but they all have the same goals and objectives in mind – to build relationships and expand business. In todays down economy, Total Events has heard many clients complain that their attendee numbers have declined and their vendors are dissatisfied. Total Events has the solution to help cure your turnout woes and create the wow factor on your show floor.

Tip #1: Update the look of the space
Especially for guests attending an annual conference, seeing the same design and color scheme year after year becomes mundane and easy to pass up. By designating an interesting theme with activities and décor to overhaul the appearance of the booths and the room you can spark some additional interest and help to encourage their presence again next year.

Tip #2: Plan fun activities for vendors and show goers to look forward to outside of the scheduled business events
This is particularly important for events that have guests coming from out of town. It doesn’t take much to throw together an exciting after hours mixer, a stimulating evening dinner or a relaxing lounge for guests to unwind in. Traveling today has become increasingly more stressful and may discourage some individuals from making a lengthy trek to an event. However, if you can build the reputation of an entertaining, dynamic and professionally lucrative business opportunity; the value of participating in the event will increase exponentially.

Tip #3: Keep you’re costs down, and pay it forward
Utilizing a full service special events company like Total Events will offer you increased flexibility and added cost savings. Packaging booths, vendor orders, Event décor, after party rentals, reception linens and centerpieces together from a single source will ensure that you get the most competitive pricing with the added bonus of one stop shopping. The additional benefit of passing cost savings down to your exhibitors will ensure that everyone walks away with a smile on their face.

Total Events professional services are available to you throughout most of New York State as well as in many parts of Massachusetts, Connecticut and Vermont. While the average convention sets up inside a convention center or hotel ballroom, we also offer you the ability to build your event outside in one of our spacious tents. Designing an expo inside a tent at the location of your choosing is a great way to enjoy an uncommon venue, nice weather and offer yourself a refreshing change of pace!

Holiday Party Ideas That Will Jingle Your Bell Without Breaking Your Bank.

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:01:00 GMT

Every year at this time we find ourselves starting at one Holiday party invitation after another. Between end of the year deadlines, shopping for gifts, inclement weather and the rest of the details that keep our days filled to the brim it becomes difficult to commit to every bash. To ensure attendance to your upcoming occasion, punch up the volume a bit with some key elements that will make any gathering a success.

Problem: You’re guests are in desperate need of some relaxation.
Solution: Create a Lounge!

Rather than a traditional sit down dinner or a cocktail party with limited seating, rent some lounge furniture. Your guests will appreciate that they are encouraged to sit back and unwind in a stylish atmosphere. Often sit down dinners can feel a bit stuffy and are a lot of work for the hosts; a lounge style cocktail party eliminates both dilemmas. A well designed buffet featuring finger foods and smaller portioned items will keep guests full and appeal to even the pickiest eater. The hosts can feel free to join in on the party rather than slaving away in the kitchen all night.

Problem: My space is too small.
Solution: Turn your ordinary garage, basement or sunroom into the place to be!

Pipe and drape can turn any space into something spectacular! With a large selection of specialty drape in a variety of colors and heights, Total Events can customize any room into a chic space ready for a crowd. Need to cover up a ceiling? That’s no problem either. Fabric swags can be hung from almost any ceiling to soften the appearance of an unattractive ceiling. A complete room drapery can be polished off with uplighting to make the space seem rich, inviting and finished.

Problem: The plastic table toppers and paper confetti centerpieces are not going to cut it this year.
Solution: Rent something fabulous!

A local rental company like Total Events is virtually a one stop shop for this kind of dilemma. From upscale linen selections, custom arranged centerpieces, decorative candle votives, inexpensive charger plates and elegant china we can fix any ordinary table setting into something really special. If the metal folding chairs you store in the garage have seen their better days, rent yourself some Chiavari’s to add that extra bit of style to the room. Keep in mind that upgrading these items is relatively inexpensive when you consider what it would cost to purchase all of the bits and pieces, especially when they may only be used once a year at most. Renting is the way to secure exactly what you want at a fair price!

Problem: Guests leave early because they’re bored.
Solution: Let us entertain you!

Sometimes sitting around your living room can get a little dull which is why mixing it up become so important. Encouraging guests to interact together, especially when the crowd is a group of people who may not necessarily know each other is key to a good time. With the addition of Casino gaming you can transform the theme, feel and energy of your party with one simple call to Total Events. We bring the tables, gaming chips, cards and dealers. Adding some unique elements to your event will ensure people will be talking about your party until next year!

Don’t get lumped into the category of “boring house party” that we see so many of this time of year. Spicing things up has never been easier and more affordable. No matter what your budget it, there is a way to pump up the volume of your next gathering!

Getting The Most Out Of A Bridal Show

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:03:00 GMT

For most brides and their wedding posse, attending bridal shows is one of many highlights in the planning process. Entering a space that has been designed to cater to your specific needs and filled with vendors eager for your business is exciting and often overwhelming. In many cases, after speaking with more than 50 different businesses it becomes hard to keep names and faces straight. Here are some tips to making the most out of your bridal show experience.

#1 Have a Game Plan
When you walk into the show, know what vendors you are seeking out. If the priority for the day is finding specialty linens and a killer DJ, visit those booths first. You will find that the businesses attending the show are interested in having a conversation with you regarding your event to find out how they can best service you. These conversations can sometimes become lengthy, but are critical in determining your feelings about moving forward in the booking process. Being able to meet with and speak to certified representatives is a very valuable resource that should be taken advantage of by any bride.

#2 Become Close Friends with Your Budget
You and your budget should know each other’s secrets by now. You should know what your bottom line is, where you intend to splurge and where you need to save. Most bridal shows have vendors from all different price points exhibiting and it helps to focus on those who are within your resources. Without a doubt you will see many displays that appeal to you. Most companies bring displays that are designed to knock your socks off and a lot of times these displays are only viable for 10% of bridal clients. Keep in mind that while the $500 centerpiece that was displayed at the show was beautiful, it won’t even closely resemble the $100 centerpieces that are more closely suited to your budget. While some vendors specialize in high end weddings, there are others who are more suited to the moderate and cost effective brides.

#3 Take Advantage of Show Specials
The goal for any vendor at a bridal show is to book business. To entice you to make a decision sooner rather than later, many companies offer show specials for that day. You may see that a vendor is willing to add some value into the package at no charge or even discount your order by a specific percentage. Sometimes these gestures may seem small in terms of the grand amount you are spending, but they do add up. As my Mother always told me, a dollar saved is a dollar earned. If you know that you love a particular florist’s work and see that they are running a show special, do yourself a favor and book it! You are only committing to doing business with them and locking in your special rate, all of your decisions and designs are still able to be altered and agreed upon. It is always better to book your vendors earlier rather than later to take advantage of current pricing and to ensure that the vendors you want will be available for your date.

#4 Bring Inspiration
If you have a photo of something specific you are looking for, bring it with you! A picture is worth 1,000 words and is very helpful for any vendor. A company can tell you almost immediately if they have in stock or can get what it is that you are looking for. Someone at the show will know exactly who to refer you to for a specialty product.

#5 Entourage Not Necessary
Bridal shows are packed houses. When you are traveling through a show with multiple people, you will find that each and every one of them wants your attention on 5 different things at once. It is best to bring your mom, your fiancé or your maid of honor and keep the group small. Going with less people will provide you with more time to speak with vendors, less guilt about not entertaining everyone and will allow you to really hone in on the reason you are there. The opinions that truly matter most at the end of the day are the bride and the groom’s.

And with these 5 simple tips, I send you off into bridal show season. May you enjoy plentiful cake samples, extravagant displays and free samples until you burst out of your skinny jeans!