It’s that time of the year again where everybody wants you to host the events, cook the food, and let’s not forget all the shopping for gifts! The happiest time of year can seem like the biggest burden and can bring on the biggest headaches. Here are some helpful tips to defuse the stress and allow you a great time this year!

Photo Credit: Harvard.edu

1) Start Early Plan Ahead!
It’s not a surprise that this time of yearhappens every year. Make it a point to start planning earlier than you usually do! Start with the little details and work your way up. For example, plan a date to decorate the tree and your home, and this time get your family involved to make it more fun!

Photo Credit: Radio Grape Vine

2) Breathe!
Yes, it’s important for the gifts to be wrapped perfectly and the centerpieces to be centered, but please take some time to relax and remember that the holidays are for family, friends, and yourself! So don’t forget to ENJOY the quality time you have and don’t sweat the small stuff.

Photo Credit: My Personal Valet blog

3) Be Realistic.
It’s true, you’re not a superhero so don’t expect to have superpowers! If you can’t plan 3 holiday parties within 2 weeks, then just say No. It’s okay, your guests will appreciate one great event that was planned well rather than several poorly planned parties and you crying in the corner…

Photo Credit: Crave Online

4) Keep it simple!
Not every detail has to be elaborate or expensive. Go finger foods instead of breaking out and cleaning all your china. Try having a potluck instead of cooking everything yourself. In the end your loved ones will enjoy your company regardless of the centerpiece.

5) Hire an Event Coordinator!
To relieve all stress, hire a professional planner! Event planners can assist you in creating a great party without all the holiday stress. And you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the festivities!

There’s still time to plan a holiday party for yourself, your business, or company. Call (323) 230-3422 or check out our website for more information on our holiday party specials!

I’ve been playing with flowers a lot lately. It’s a talent that I’ve always admired and I’ve been looking for reasons to arrange centerpieces and floral arrangements.

I wanted to give my friend a thank you gift for helping me with a job I got so I worked for hours (does it take professional florists this long or is it just me??) to put together these arrangements. I love height, the set of 3′s, and the way the flowers and colors are different in each arrangement but together look complete!

All Pretty in Pink Hues!

Probably the most challenging was getting the strips of green leaves into the glass jars! I don’t think I used the right type of leaves because the one I used was really stiff and made it so difficult to bend and curl exactly how I wanted in the vase.

Love the fullness of each arrangement!

Overall I was very happy and it was a wonderful surprise for my friend when she arrived to work that morning with a trio of cute pink flowers (her favorite!) sitting at her desk!