Use three various size glass cyclinders, fill one with Gold painted pine cones, one with a sumberged in water white christmas lilies or Ivory roses (you can get them from a floral dealer in packs of ten) and then the smaller last one with fake snow or black metallic shred. If you wnat to do something additional tie a coordinating ribbon at the top of each vase.
Planning the MenuYou can have all of your favorite food but add some winter touches like a squash dish, or warm pumpkin soup. Consider serving eggnog, spiced wine, or hot chocolate (alcoholic or non-) as special treats. Look for an all-white cake, decorated with snowflake patterns, silver embellishments, or sugar sculptures. Ask your caterer about using a decorative snow globe as a cake topper
Winter Wedding FlowersDecide whether you want to go for a silver and white elegant look, or celebrate the season with reds and greens. For those who like silver, look for dusty miller, silver-dollar eucalyptus, and baby blue eucalyptus, mixed with white flowers such as roses, football mums, crocus, lilies and stephanotis. If you're looking for a brighter bouquet, consider red roses with holly and pine-tree greenery. In season flowers such as tulips, roses, and ornamental berries generally will be less expensive choices. (Talk to your florist, as your region may have different availability)
The Décor for Your Winter WeddingDecorate your tables with simple and inexpensive white poinsettias, or fill the room with light by arranging pillar candles on a bed of pine branches At the after-Christmas sales, stock up on strands of small white lights, then string them decoratively around doorways, over tables and on archways. Bright red cranberries in a bowl surrounding floating candles make an easy and inexpensive centerpiece. Look at this article for other simple holiday centerpieces.. Or, decorate a pre-made gingerbread house for each table, and center it on a bed of greenery with candles around it.
FavorsIf you and most of your guests celebrate Christmas, an ornament makes a perfect favor. An inexpensive homemade favor is a pretty tin of spiced hot chocolate mix or hot cocoa mix with marshmallows. Also consider a snow globe, with a bride and groom inside, or a holiday cookie cutter with a cookie recipe attached that says your names, wedding date, and "truly cut out for each other".
Friday, December 18, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Advice from the Knot.com
So you thought it'd be great to write your own wedding vows, but now a healthy dose of writer's block (not to mention fear of embarrassing yourself) has hit you squarely on the head. Don't know how to transform your heavy, life-altering, feelings into a string of coherent words? You're not alone -- but don't worry, your goal is within reach: Just take it one word at a time. Here's the homework you need to do (and the questions you should ask) to make your wedding vows perfect.
Prep Step A: Get clearanceMake sure your officiant will accept personalized vows. Catholic and Episcopal congregations, for instance, may require you to recite all or part of the traditional vows, though in most cases that's left to the officiant's discretion. Remember: Even the most accommodating officiant will want to review your words in advance.
Prep Step B: Make a planYou need to tackle the logistics to make sure you and your fiance are both on the same page: Are you each going to write your own, or will you write them together? Will you show them to each other before the ceremony?
Knot Note: If you're feeling shy, opt to write your vows together and even recite the exact same promises. If there's more you wish to say, privately, say it in the cards you exchange on the day of your wedding or on your honeymoon.
Prep Step C: Create your outlineAn outline can help to establish a structure that you both stick to. For example, plan to first talk about how great your fiance is, then about how great you are as a couple, then about what you're vowing to each other.
Prep Step D: Find your voiceWhat overall tone do you want: Humorous and touching? Poetic and mushy? It's your call -- the most important thing is that your vows ring true and sound like they're from your heart.
Prep Step E: Cut it downFinally, pick a length and stick to it by keeping the mantra pithy and to the point in mind -- anything longer than a minute or so, and no matter how gorgeous your prose, the audience will start to squirm.
Ready to Write!What exactly do you say? To help you think of sentiments to include, take turns answering this list of questions. When you're done, look through your answers for the phrases that best capture your intended message and incorporate them into the structure of your vows.
So you thought it'd be great to write your own wedding vows, but now a healthy dose of writer's block (not to mention fear of embarrassing yourself) has hit you squarely on the head. Don't know how to transform your heavy, life-altering, feelings into a string of coherent words? You're not alone -- but don't worry, your goal is within reach: Just take it one word at a time. Here's the homework you need to do (and the questions you should ask) to make your wedding vows perfect.
Prep Step A: Get clearanceMake sure your officiant will accept personalized vows. Catholic and Episcopal congregations, for instance, may require you to recite all or part of the traditional vows, though in most cases that's left to the officiant's discretion. Remember: Even the most accommodating officiant will want to review your words in advance.
Prep Step B: Make a planYou need to tackle the logistics to make sure you and your fiance are both on the same page: Are you each going to write your own, or will you write them together? Will you show them to each other before the ceremony?
Knot Note: If you're feeling shy, opt to write your vows together and even recite the exact same promises. If there's more you wish to say, privately, say it in the cards you exchange on the day of your wedding or on your honeymoon.
Prep Step C: Create your outlineAn outline can help to establish a structure that you both stick to. For example, plan to first talk about how great your fiance is, then about how great you are as a couple, then about what you're vowing to each other.
Prep Step D: Find your voiceWhat overall tone do you want: Humorous and touching? Poetic and mushy? It's your call -- the most important thing is that your vows ring true and sound like they're from your heart.
Prep Step E: Cut it downFinally, pick a length and stick to it by keeping the mantra pithy and to the point in mind -- anything longer than a minute or so, and no matter how gorgeous your prose, the audience will start to squirm.
Ready to Write!What exactly do you say? To help you think of sentiments to include, take turns answering this list of questions. When you're done, look through your answers for the phrases that best capture your intended message and incorporate them into the structure of your vows.
Happy Thanksgiving To All!!
On Thanksgiving Day we’re thankful forOur blessings all year through,For family we dearly love,For good friends, old and new.
For sun to light and warm our days,For stars that glow at night,For trees of green and skies of blue,And puffy clouds of white.
We’re grateful for our eyes that seeThe beauty all around,For arms to hug, and legs to walk,And ears to hear each sound.
The list of all we’re grateful forWould fill a great big book;Our thankful hearts find new delightsEverywhere we look!
By Joanna Fuchs
On Thanksgiving Day we’re thankful forOur blessings all year through,For family we dearly love,For good friends, old and new.
For sun to light and warm our days,For stars that glow at night,For trees of green and skies of blue,And puffy clouds of white.
We’re grateful for our eyes that seeThe beauty all around,For arms to hug, and legs to walk,And ears to hear each sound.
The list of all we’re grateful forWould fill a great big book;Our thankful hearts find new delightsEverywhere we look!
By Joanna Fuchs
Friday, October 23, 2009
COULD YOUR COMPANY BENEFIT FROM A $10,000 MEETING BAILOUT? Tell us how the economy has had an impact your travel and meeting budgets this year. If you have had to cut back or eliminate a meeting entirely this year, the Hilton Alexandria Old Town wants your company to meet again! If this meeting is critical to stimulating future business for your company, good for our local Alexandria economy or if your organization has deep charitable roots then you could qualify to win a $10,000 two day meeting or event at the Hilton Alexandria Old Town. Register your company to win and Submit your story, in 200 words or less, to http://www.alexandriahilton.com/hiltonalexfreemeeting/
Please complete the form below prior to October 31st, 2009. Submissions will be collected and judged and one winner will be selected prior to November 30th, 2009. Everyone will receive bailout money! All participants will be eligible for the following incentive For any meeting booked for 2009 you may choose the following; One incentive, for meetings valued at $500 - $5,000 Two incentives for meetings valued at $5,001 to $10,000 Three incentive for meetings valued at $10,001+ Incentives may be chosen from the following list: Attrition Clauses will be based on 70%, not the typical 80% of your contracted numbers Two free Internet connections for your meeting Five complimentary parking passes One upgrade to a suite (Presidential Suite for bookings greater than $10,000) 2% rebate on your meeting Double HHonors Event Planner Points 3 Complimentary Breakfast Buffet Passes Complimentary Weekend Stay to be used for a future stay
With our belts tightening, are Face-to-Face Meetings a thing of the past? We want to change that with our Bailout Promotion!
Face-to-face meetings are still considered to have the highest ROI of all marketing tools. A greater significance is being placed on planners worldwide to provide the value of the proposed meeting or event. 74% of organizations holding meetings and events measure ROI with the primary measure being the satisfaction of the attendees. It is proven that face-to-face meetings are still the most effective and preferred method to deliver your message. We are committed to helping our clients have successful face-to-face meetings by offering incentives to help reduce every budget.
SEAGARS now featuring Ala Carte Brunch on Sundays!
Seatings available between 11:30am & 2:00pm $24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children under 10. Children under 5 eat free,
For reservations; please call Seagar's Restaurant at (703) 647 2000 1767 King Street, Alexandria, VA-2231
MONDAY & WEDNESDAYS Build ANY kind of Burger for Only $10 (includes 1 non alcoholic beverage)
Sliders, 1/2 lb Angus, Beef Turkey, Veggie or Crab Burger ($3 ) www.alexandriahilton.com or www.alexandriaoldtown.hilton.com
Please complete the form below prior to October 31st, 2009. Submissions will be collected and judged and one winner will be selected prior to November 30th, 2009. Everyone will receive bailout money! All participants will be eligible for the following incentive For any meeting booked for 2009 you may choose the following; One incentive, for meetings valued at $500 - $5,000 Two incentives for meetings valued at $5,001 to $10,000 Three incentive for meetings valued at $10,001+ Incentives may be chosen from the following list: Attrition Clauses will be based on 70%, not the typical 80% of your contracted numbers Two free Internet connections for your meeting Five complimentary parking passes One upgrade to a suite (Presidential Suite for bookings greater than $10,000) 2% rebate on your meeting Double HHonors Event Planner Points 3 Complimentary Breakfast Buffet Passes Complimentary Weekend Stay to be used for a future stay
With our belts tightening, are Face-to-Face Meetings a thing of the past? We want to change that with our Bailout Promotion!
Face-to-face meetings are still considered to have the highest ROI of all marketing tools. A greater significance is being placed on planners worldwide to provide the value of the proposed meeting or event. 74% of organizations holding meetings and events measure ROI with the primary measure being the satisfaction of the attendees. It is proven that face-to-face meetings are still the most effective and preferred method to deliver your message. We are committed to helping our clients have successful face-to-face meetings by offering incentives to help reduce every budget.
SEAGARS now featuring Ala Carte Brunch on Sundays!
Seatings available between 11:30am & 2:00pm $24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children under 10. Children under 5 eat free,
For reservations; please call Seagar's Restaurant at (703) 647 2000 1767 King Street, Alexandria, VA-2231
MONDAY & WEDNESDAYS Build ANY kind of Burger for Only $10 (includes 1 non alcoholic beverage)
Sliders, 1/2 lb Angus, Beef Turkey, Veggie or Crab Burger ($3 ) www.alexandriahilton.com or www.alexandriaoldtown.hilton.com
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Get to know your band or DJ. Listen to a demo tape or go catch their act. Before making a final decision, meet them to make sure they're on board with your ideas.
Be clear on which band members will be playing at your wedding, and put this in your contract. Note: The size of band needed depends on your guest list (a six-piece band works best for 100 guests; a ten-piece band for 300 guests).
Give the band or DJ a list of your favorite and least-favorite songs. This way, you'll have more control over the party music—and no unpleasant surprises.
Ask the band or DJ what they plan to wear. With the band, you want a uniform look; black-tie for a formal event, or khaki suits for a casual wedding.
Pin down a time for your band or DJ to set up the equipment. You don't want the musicians trudging through your cocktail hour with heavy speakers and instruments.
Give your band or DJ a schedule of events. Your caterer should have a copy, too, so the event flows smoothly. Determine, also, when the band or DJ will take breaks. Make sure that when they're on break, there will be backup music.
Give your bandleader or DJ the correct pronunciation of your names and those giving toasts to avoid embarrassment.
Tell the band or DJ where they should have dinner. You don't want to find them eating at the bar or at your buffet.
Inform the entertainers whether it's okay to take requests. These can be fine within reason, but don't allow your guests to treat your band or DJ as a jukebox.
Tell the bandmembers or DJs not to bring their wives, kids, or others. You don't want an uninvited entourage hanging around during the reception.
Be clear on which band members will be playing at your wedding, and put this in your contract. Note: The size of band needed depends on your guest list (a six-piece band works best for 100 guests; a ten-piece band for 300 guests).
Give the band or DJ a list of your favorite and least-favorite songs. This way, you'll have more control over the party music—and no unpleasant surprises.
Ask the band or DJ what they plan to wear. With the band, you want a uniform look; black-tie for a formal event, or khaki suits for a casual wedding.
Pin down a time for your band or DJ to set up the equipment. You don't want the musicians trudging through your cocktail hour with heavy speakers and instruments.
Give your band or DJ a schedule of events. Your caterer should have a copy, too, so the event flows smoothly. Determine, also, when the band or DJ will take breaks. Make sure that when they're on break, there will be backup music.
Give your bandleader or DJ the correct pronunciation of your names and those giving toasts to avoid embarrassment.
Tell the band or DJ where they should have dinner. You don't want to find them eating at the bar or at your buffet.
Inform the entertainers whether it's okay to take requests. These can be fine within reason, but don't allow your guests to treat your band or DJ as a jukebox.
Tell the bandmembers or DJs not to bring their wives, kids, or others. You don't want an uninvited entourage hanging around during the reception.
Setting A Distinctive Standard For Alexandria Virginia Lodging…Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you can count on the Hilton Alexandria Old Town to provide bright, comfortable guest rooms and impeccable service. Discover our "new look" - following a $4 million renovation, and unwind in vibrant surroundings. Located only minutes from Washington DC, our Alexandria Virginia lodging offers the ultimate in luxury, sophistication, and value. Savor the quaint charm of one of the DC Metro area's most historic districts - perfectly preserved in every aspect of our hotel's design - without sacrificing modern-day functionality. Look to our upscale Old Town Alexandria accommodations for the conveniences and services you've come to expect from Hilton, with a special touch of colonial flair. Choose from our spacious accommodations, including:
247 Newly-Renovated Luxury Guest Rooms, updated with modern furnishings, with one king bed or two double beds
17 Newly-Renovated Executive Suites, with one king or two double beds
247 Newly-Renovated Luxury Guest Rooms, updated with modern furnishings, with one king bed or two double beds
17 Newly-Renovated Executive Suites, with one king or two double beds
Friday, September 11, 2009
Fun Finds
This morning I logged onto the Knot (www.theknot.com) to look for a centerpiece idea for a bride, and I found a cool new feature that allows newly engaged couples to send an "email" announcement to their family and friends that is personalized with the couple's pictures, etc.. Feel free to pass this on to anyone who may be recently engaged or soon to be engaged. Click on the link below to check it out!
http://global.theknot.com/sitelets/ritani/ecard/?cm_sp=TK_Green-_-2-_-20090911
Second fun find for today is a website called Favors You Keep. It is a fairly original site, as the designs, imprints and products may be a bit different that the ones you see on the Knot, then at Exclusively Weddings, and so on. Favors You Keep offers you the opportunity to customize favors, napkins, treat bags, thank you notes, favors, and cake toppers. One of the fun finds on this website is the Caitlin Cartoon Collection and the Skyline Collection. The Caitlin Cartoon Collection features a variety of "bride and groom sketches", from a "Football Couple", "Surfer Couple" and my absolute favorite under City Couples... the Washington, DC couple! There is also a Washington, DC skyline graphic under the Skyline Collection. Spend a few minutes on this site, and you will find yourself adding items to your cart!
That's all for now! If you have a Fun Find, feel free to let us know!
Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
Wedding & Social Coordinator
http://global.theknot.com/sitelets/ritani/ecard/?cm_sp=TK_Green-_-2-_-20090911
Second fun find for today is a website called Favors You Keep. It is a fairly original site, as the designs, imprints and products may be a bit different that the ones you see on the Knot, then at Exclusively Weddings, and so on. Favors You Keep offers you the opportunity to customize favors, napkins, treat bags, thank you notes, favors, and cake toppers. One of the fun finds on this website is the Caitlin Cartoon Collection and the Skyline Collection. The Caitlin Cartoon Collection features a variety of "bride and groom sketches", from a "Football Couple", "Surfer Couple" and my absolute favorite under City Couples... the Washington, DC couple! There is also a Washington, DC skyline graphic under the Skyline Collection. Spend a few minutes on this site, and you will find yourself adding items to your cart!
That's all for now! If you have a Fun Find, feel free to let us know!
Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
Wedding & Social Coordinator
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Favors
Distributing favors
If you're opting for a favor like almonds or candy, provide one per guest. Pricier items like votive candleholders can be distributed one per couple.
Add to the decor
If you're having a theme wedding, offer a favor that echoes the motif. Think strawberry-flavored lobster suckers for beachside bashes, or personalized corkscrews for winery weddings. Check out blissweddingmarket.com (vineyard fetes) and shellsaplenty.com (beach bashes) for favor-making materials.
Making scents
Avoid setting scented favors on the table as they may interfere with the aromas of the dinner. Have them distributed by the waitstaff after dinner has been served.
Good cause
If you don't fancy the idea of favors, you can make a donation to your favorite charity in your guests' names. For a list of global charities, check out careusa.org.
Traditional touches
Celebrate your culture through your gifts. Think maracas or pewter chopsticks.
If you're opting for a favor like almonds or candy, provide one per guest. Pricier items like votive candleholders can be distributed one per couple.
Add to the decor
If you're having a theme wedding, offer a favor that echoes the motif. Think strawberry-flavored lobster suckers for beachside bashes, or personalized corkscrews for winery weddings. Check out blissweddingmarket.com (vineyard fetes) and shellsaplenty.com (beach bashes) for favor-making materials.
Making scents
Avoid setting scented favors on the table as they may interfere with the aromas of the dinner. Have them distributed by the waitstaff after dinner has been served.
Good cause
If you don't fancy the idea of favors, you can make a donation to your favorite charity in your guests' names. For a list of global charities, check out careusa.org.
Traditional touches
Celebrate your culture through your gifts. Think maracas or pewter chopsticks.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Myth #5: The heat will ruin everythingSure, summer can be hot. But don't let the naysayers get you down. If you know there's a decent chance it will be especially hot on your wedding day, make plans to avert any weather-related disasters. Avoid wilting blooms in the bouquets and boutonnieres by asking your florist to steer you toward hardier blooms, like orchids and lilies. Consider water-submerged centerpieces featuring Mokara orchids. Because the flowers are completely under water, they'll keep cool all night long. And as for your wedding cake, get fondant instead of buttercream to avoid a melting mess. If you're set on the rich taste of buttercream, display the cake during your cocktail hour and then have the cake cutting at the beginning of your reception.Special thanks to Lori Stephenson, owner and senior event consultant, LOLA Event Productions, Chicago; Miriam Phalen, owner and event planner, Sterling Events LLC, New York City
-- Kate Wood
-- Kate Wood
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Ben and Amber
This past weekend we had the joy of hosting Amber and Ben’s wedding ceremony and reception. Both Amber and Ben are very special to us as they had competed in our 2008 Winter Wedding Giveaway. While they didn’t take home the grand prize, they still got lucky and were offered the opportunity to have their wedding events take place at our property. Amber was super excited and eager throughout the whole planning process, which made every appointment with them cheerful and fun. On the wedding day Amber and her bridesmaids were calm and relaxed, and Ben and his groomsmen were having fun just hanging out. Amber was beaming as she prepared to walk down the aisle and Ben looked so happy to see her. The real magic between Ben and Amber was most evident at the (outdoor) ceremony as they wrote their own vows which were very sweet and heartfelt. The guests enjoyed every moment, as there were many smiles and a few good laughs.
After the ceremony the guests proceeded into the Plaza Foyer for the cocktail hour. Amber’s bridesmaid and wedding planner created small square hydrangea arrangements to go on the cocktail tables, which added a nice pop of color. More fun that the cocktail hour for guests, was the Bridal Party cocktail hour. The new Mr. and Mrs. received many cheers as they entered the Private Dining Room, and from then on the fun was non-stop.
Ben and Amber’s reception in the Grand Ballroom was beautifully decorated with Chateau French Blue and Brown Swirl linens from Select Event Rentals, and hydrangea centerpieces. A conference style head table was set just for the bridal party, and was very unique, as 17 people were able to sit together and interact. The head table was beautifully decorated with Mink Satin Linens and Alice Blue napkins from Select Event Rentals and over 20 votive candles. The bride’s and bridesmaids bouquets were put into vases on the head table to serve as the centerpieces. A cake table was set near the head table and was decorated with a brown and blue linen, multiple votive candles, and the beautiful wedding cake. A friend made Ben and Amber’s wedding cake, and did not use an ounce of fondant, which is something we see on a majority of wedding cakes. The top of the wedding cake was adorned with multiple chocolate truffles and a chocolate initial representing Ben and Amber’s “new” last name. It was certainly a sight to see!
As the bridal party and then Ben and Amber entered the room there were loud, vivacious cheers from all of the guests, which made for a lively reception! Soon after entering the room Ben and Amber had their first dance. The evening continued with dinner service that included our Mango and Baby Spinach Salad, Petite Crab Tian, Roasted Sirloin and Salmon and wine service. After dinner Amber’s sister toasted the bride and groom and shared with the crowd that Amber had asked her to be the Maid of Honor 9 months before Ben proposed. Ben’s brother then toasted to couple and let everyone know that Ben does not enjoy others whistling around him. Both toasts were well executed and reflected on the bride and groom in a great way! Soon after the toasts the party celebrating Ben and Amber’s nuptials was in full swing. Dancing and mingling continued late into the night making it a fabulous night (and day) to remember!
The Hilton Old Town sends many congratulations to Ben and Amber! Best Wishes!
Lindsay Kahler
After the ceremony the guests proceeded into the Plaza Foyer for the cocktail hour. Amber’s bridesmaid and wedding planner created small square hydrangea arrangements to go on the cocktail tables, which added a nice pop of color. More fun that the cocktail hour for guests, was the Bridal Party cocktail hour. The new Mr. and Mrs. received many cheers as they entered the Private Dining Room, and from then on the fun was non-stop.
Ben and Amber’s reception in the Grand Ballroom was beautifully decorated with Chateau French Blue and Brown Swirl linens from Select Event Rentals, and hydrangea centerpieces. A conference style head table was set just for the bridal party, and was very unique, as 17 people were able to sit together and interact. The head table was beautifully decorated with Mink Satin Linens and Alice Blue napkins from Select Event Rentals and over 20 votive candles. The bride’s and bridesmaids bouquets were put into vases on the head table to serve as the centerpieces. A cake table was set near the head table and was decorated with a brown and blue linen, multiple votive candles, and the beautiful wedding cake. A friend made Ben and Amber’s wedding cake, and did not use an ounce of fondant, which is something we see on a majority of wedding cakes. The top of the wedding cake was adorned with multiple chocolate truffles and a chocolate initial representing Ben and Amber’s “new” last name. It was certainly a sight to see!
As the bridal party and then Ben and Amber entered the room there were loud, vivacious cheers from all of the guests, which made for a lively reception! Soon after entering the room Ben and Amber had their first dance. The evening continued with dinner service that included our Mango and Baby Spinach Salad, Petite Crab Tian, Roasted Sirloin and Salmon and wine service. After dinner Amber’s sister toasted the bride and groom and shared with the crowd that Amber had asked her to be the Maid of Honor 9 months before Ben proposed. Ben’s brother then toasted to couple and let everyone know that Ben does not enjoy others whistling around him. Both toasts were well executed and reflected on the bride and groom in a great way! Soon after the toasts the party celebrating Ben and Amber’s nuptials was in full swing. Dancing and mingling continued late into the night making it a fabulous night (and day) to remember!
The Hilton Old Town sends many congratulations to Ben and Amber! Best Wishes!
Lindsay Kahler
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Welcome!
Welcome to the new blogspot for our award winning Hilton Alexandria Old Town! We will be posting updates, photos and news about our hotel on here regularly and we hope you visit our site often. If you would like to make a reservation or would like to find out more about what our hotel can offer you, please find us on our website: http://www.alexandriaoldtown.hilton.com/.
Thank you!
Thank you!
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