The Main Event by Memory Makers Event Planning, LLC

If you and your friends enjoy watching the election returns, why not make a party of it. Depending on your social circle, you might invite guests who root for both parties if everyone can enjoy the results without becoming angry or frustrated. If your family and friends tend to be more polarized, then you might invite only guests of a similar party preference. Decorate with red and/or blue banners, party hats and paper goods. You might serve cookies in the shape of donkeys and elephants or add some pizzaz by serving red velvet cake with blue icing. Plan a fun game or two, perhaps giving a small prize to whoever picks the winners of local elections. Above all, keep it light and fun; no snide comments or displays of anger. Though the results are extremely important, it isn't necessary to make others uncomfortable about their allegiances.

Aging is a fact of life. We can't slow it down; we can't stop it, so why not have fun with it? If you know someone who will soon celebrate a 65th birthday, you may want to plan a "Welcome to Medicare" party. Invitations might be in the style of a Medicare card. Decorations might include additional Medicare cards in varying sizes (Medicare placemats?) and red, blue and white decorations. You might even serve red, white and blue foods, such as red velvet birthday cake, vanilla ice cream, blueberries and/or strawberries with red or blue punch. A short program that includes funny stories, poems or embarrassing incidents associated with aging or Medicare will keep your guests in stitches. If the honoree is in good health, guests might be encouraged to have fun with gifts, bringing such things as a cane or a large magnifying glass. If, however, the person suffers from a serious health issue, foregoing gifts in favor of cards only may be more appropriate. Don't l

Most weddings involve flowers, usually bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres for the men and possibly centerpieces and other decor. It is easy to become overwhelmed with so many items, not to mention the varying prices. The following tips will guide you as you begin thinking about your floral needs.  Handheld bouquet Bride's bouquet - Unless the bride is being married at the courthouse, she probably needs a bouquet. Bridal bouquets come in two basic styles, either handheld or in a holder. A handheld bouquet is one in which the stems are wrapped in ribbon forming a "handle" for the bride to hold. The flowers generally form a round mound. Handheld bouquets are easy to keep hydrated on hot days by slipping them into a vase of water.