The Main Event by Memory Makers Event Planning, LLC

On Sunday we celebrated the 90th birthday of a family member with a reception for family and friends. The honoree was at first a bit hesitant about all the attention. However, as guests began to arrive, he was pleased to see people he hadn't seen for years. Guests came from Seattle and from Oregon, as well as some who had to drive a couple of hours. Guests commented that they were able to visit with people they hadn't seen for years, as well as visiting with the honoree and his family. If someone in your family is having a milestone birthday, a special anniversary, a graduation, or another event, use it as an opportunity to let the person know you love and appreciate them by celebrating in some manner. It doesn't have to be an extravagant celebration, but do something. Life is short and everyone needs to know they are loved and appreciated.

2005 is starting off as a banner year for events. I receive two or three calls a week from desperate people who can't find an available location to hold their event, particularly during the summer. Many people look in the Yellow Pages or try to think of places where they may have attended an event. However, there are many other less well-known places that rent their facilities for special events. By thinking creatively, you may find an affordable location that is still available. The most obvious locations that host events in the Boise area are hotels, the Idaho Botanical Gardens, the Boise Depot, the Bishop's House, golf clubs, city parks, and wineries. Not everyone is aware that the Boise Art Museum, the Esther Simplot Performing Arts Center, and the Idaho Shakespeare Theater rent their facilities for summer events. Grange halls, fraternal halls (Eagles, Elks, etc.), Legion halls, community rooms in apartment and condo complexes, some senior citizens centers, and private scho...