Whether you host an offsite retreat, conduct a workshop, invite a guest speaker, or just work on some team building exercises, the 90-day slump is upon you – you know, the time between holiday break and spring break where the office is madly working everyday with no vacations.

A line from the movie Office Space from Producer Mike Judge says it best, “man was not meant to work in little cubicles staring at computer screens all day.”  Your fellow workers are starting to feel it and as the manager, it’s your duty to do something new to shake things up.

A few ideas of what to do for a total offsite office workday:

1)     Brainstorming Retreat – whatever it is your office is currently working on, take a new look at it by taking it outside your office.  It’s amazing what a change of scenery can do for a fresh look at an old problem.

2)     Inspirational Speaker – there are a number of incredible business people, many in your own backyard, which would be honored to speak to your company.  Whether you need new business ideas or a motivational topic, look to some of the neighborhood professional associations for experts in what you need.

3)     Teambuilding Exercises – it’s good to get to know your co-workers outside the regular work cycle.  Maybe Bob’s going back to school or Cindy’s oldest child is about to go to college, having a real relationship with the people you see on a regular basis can help productivity and dedication in the long run.

4)     Business Workshops – is your office stuck on a project?  Have you been using the same business practices and need to jazz things up a bit?  Bringing in new technologies or new methods for mundane details can be a reason to get the team together and introduce the changes in a positive manner.

5)     Social Celebration – maybe you have a lot of birthdays or retirements or just need a break from the everyday – a social event could be just the thing you need to break up the monotony and bring in some fun.

With Spring just around the corner, warmer temperatures promising to stick around, and blooming flowers in the air – getting your office team out of the physical building could be the tension-breaker you’ve been looking for.  Let us know if you need ideas or to book your event because The Mackey House can help with all the details!

The trend continues to grow throughout the wedding world as everything from Winter Wonderland, to Fairy Tales, to Black-and-White Weddings – it helps keep your guests, your planner (even if it’s you), and your ideas focused on one centralized message making details simpler.

The Top Eight Wedding Themes for 2012 are (or so we’re predicting):

1)     Beach Theme – it’s a favorite, especially around Savannah, GA and the southeast – and a great one to mimic even if you’re uncomfortable having it on the beach itself.

2)     Princess Theme – we praise Disney for making this one popular again, and doesn’t every little girl believe she is a princess on the inside, why not make it for your day!

3)     Color Themes – although colors are a large part of the wedding decision, choosing the color as the official theme can make decorating an easy task!

4)     Sci-Fi Themes – even those crazy nerds from The Big Bang Theory will one day get married, so why not theme it so they can have a good time?

5)     Location Themes – many brides and grooms have places that are near and dear to their hearts – ocean to mountains to international locales – the place can be as important as anything else.

6)     Royal Themes – there are a number of people enthralled with the idea of Royal Weddings, look to this year having a number of brides walking down the aisle in Kate-similar-garb

7)     Time Period Themes – believe it or not, Victorian time periods are still essential, others we’ve seen include vintage, 20s and 80s most recently.

8)     Holiday Themes – from Christmas to 4^th of July and everything in between, weddings are now looking to learn from other holidays across the globe!

Whatever you decide to do for your wedding – whether a theme or not – make sure it’s your day and that you remember to have fun.  A day that you and
your spouse-to-be will remember forever, should be a day that reflects the two of you, your love and your uniqueness.

A trend that’s becoming more and more popular is different shades and/or styles of dresses. Not only does it give each bridesmaid the benefit of wearing something that looks good on her body, something she feels comfortable in, but it also brings an interesting and unique look to the wedding party as a whole.

This looks much more attractive up at the alter and in photos than a bunch of girls wearing the exact same dress, which, let’s face it, usually only looks good on one or two of them.

Options and Tips:

• If you choose a shade that your bridesmaids must stick to, still approve of the dresses before your wedding day.
• There needs to be some cohesiveness.
• You don’t want one girl in a sundress and another in cocktail dress.
• If they are all completely different dresses, the colors shouldn’t clash, and there should be a cohesive theme.
• Example: vintage, sleek/modern.
• Don’t go rainbow. Stick with close shades or shades that compliment one another.
• Say nay to multiple pastels.
• Patterns are okay; just make sure they are similar styles.
• DON’T have one girl in a floral pattern, and another in some geometric repeat pattern. It looks awkward. Even if they are similar colors, they are completely different styles.
• If you are doing multiple shades/colors, choose a palette.
• (Color palettes are available online)
• Groomsman can get in on the mix-match as well. But don’t do different colored suits/jackets.
  • Vests, ties, bowties, and flowers/boutonnières are OKAY.

Whatever it is that you decide on, make sure it’s still something that compliments you and you’re wedding. Your bridesmaids will appreciate the options, but at the end of the day the celebration still belongs to you and your groom.

Could it be the feel of natural surroundings during your special time or the incredible backdrop that’s provided by the planet or maybe the challenge of daring the weather to mess up your day?

Whatever it is, outdoor weddings have gained in popularity over the years and particularly in the south when the weather is warmer longer, they certainly have a particular appeal for both the special couple and their guests.

However, it’s important to note that outdoor weddings take a little extra planning than indoor weddings.  For example:

-         Just in case: we’ve already mentioned the need to take on Mother Nature as a reason people enjoy the outdoors – but you always need a backup at the chance of inclement weather.  Some inclement weather can be battled by tents, but not all.  Be sure to have an indoor alternate site.

-         Heating/Cooling elements: the end of the twentieth century brought us some incredible inventions, not to be over looked are the amazing outdoor items you can use to heat or cool an outdoor area that are not only functional, but quiet and attractive.  Not quite as outstanding as central heating and air for your home, but close to it.

-         Umbrellas: especially if your wedding is in one location and your reception is at a separate but walkable location, rain could bring issues for your guests.

-         Bug repellant: as with our heating and cooling elements, as equally inspiring new gadgets include citronella candles, bug misting systems, tiki torches with bug repelling oils – the list goes on and the exciting part is that many options don’t come with yucky scents.

-         Mats or Rugs:  if your location doesn’t offer a hard surface for your attendees, be sure to rent something for them to stand on, place a chair on, or walk on.  You don’t want your friends and family sinking of having wet feet all day.

At The Mackey House, we have both indoor and outdoor facilities for you to use, as well as a covered, heated, and air conditioned pavilion available to you in any arrangement you’d like.  Let us know if we can assist you with making your outdoor wedding a memorable one!

The latest trends for Spring 2012 as we see them – seem to be the following:

1)     COLORS:  We know we talked about this last year, particularly Fall of 2011 and how much we touted dark browns and pastels – but this coming Spring, hold on to your hats – Pantone Tangerine Tango is not only gracing weddings, but is Color of the Year.  Bold and bright, this color would mix nicely or go-it-alone.  Although not alone in the wheel for Spring weddings, it certainly seems to be the trend setter in fashion colors.

2)     Dresses:  From deep V-necklines to high slit skirts, dresses seem to – pardon the reference Justin T. – bring sexy back.  Sparkle, drapes, ruffles, and more seem to show a partnership between glamour and bold that makes a real statement for the dress wearer.

3)     Hair:  Not to be outdone by clothing, hairstyles seem to mirror the need for statement making for 2012.  Braids for up-dos are making a comeback, however not quite like we’ve seen in the past.  Asymmetrical patterns, letting the hair flow on its own and not being afraid of imperfection, or maybe even a touch of “messy” helps accentuate the suave dress and thought out design.

4)     Cake:  For some, it really is all about the cake.  Typically not something we blog about most times, but this year, they are so elaborate and beautiful that we felt the need to include them.  From separate cakes for the bride, groom, and guests to works of art, these will take your breath away.

So, brides, get yourself together because we’re about to jump into Spring, and this year, it’s going to be a bright, sexy, and slightly messy affair…or in this case, season. Whether you choose to keep things low-key on your big day with neutrals and naturals, or make it a jaw dropping bright, colorful,  ‘oh my gosh I can’t believe she did that’ all out party, The Mackey House is a great place to celebrate your commitment of love, and the season.

The Venue:

• Choose a different location.
• Even if the event you’re planning isn’t for a large crowd, taking it out of your building will make a huge difference. Employees should look forward to this function, and let’s face it, all employees look forward to getting out of the office.

• Choose a place that caters – everyone loves food, be it hors d’oeuvres or a full course meal.
• Don’t cram everyone inside. Find a venue that offers an outdoor area as well.
• Don’t go the traditional route – i.e. Local restaurant, hotel conference room.

Entertainment:

Each corporate event is different. Some are for team building while others are a celebration to bring employees together, so choose appropriate entertainment. Here are some options for either type of occasion.

• Band
• D.J.
• Guest speaker
• Video
• This can be a fun, creative video that someone puts together about the employees – purely for a laugh. This makes for a great surprise. Think back to your senior video from high school.
• Karaoke
• Game tables – poker, blackjack, etc.

Alcohol: Ye or Ne?

Some businesses choose not to serve alcohol at their events. However, if the purpose of your event is more celebratory than informative, serving alcoholic beverages can be a good way to make employees feel like they’re there to enjoy themselves and NOT to work or talk business.

• For evening/nighttime functions a full bar is appropriate
• For daytime events it’s okay to stick with just beer and wine.
• Treat employees to an open bar.
• If the event is dressier, specialty cocktails or champagne are good options.

Whether your corporate event is purely a party or is a means of advisory, the Mackey House is a great place to gather and connect. And even if you don’t choose to have your function with us, know that we are always here to help you plan a successful affair.

(photo for blog by: Amsterdam Billiards and Bar)

Eventually veils were traded in for tiaras, hair accessories, flowers, hats, etc., and even if a veil is worn, rarely does it cover the bride’s face. But like many vintage styles, the veil is coming back. It’s classic, elegant, and can take on a modern twist that doesn’t scream CHASTITY.

VEIL TIPS/IDEAS

• No need for cathedral length sheaths and full frontal coverage.  (UNLESS YOU LIKE THAT!)
• You can go shorter. EVEN BOB SHORT. This is a fun 40’s look.
• Add something on the top in combination with the veil.
  • Hairpiece
  • Tiara
  • Flower/rose
  • Small hat
• Lace is always beautiful.
• You can still have your hair done up…or down.
• It can sit at the back of your head. There is no need for it to cover your whole head.

In other words, veils don’t have to be a sign of purity anymore. It wasn’t the veil itself that represented a right of passage to the new husband. It was the act of revealing the bride’s face that ‘gave her away’.

Veils are beautiful, elegant, classic, and often something that is passed down over generations. They are traditional, but they don’t have to look traditional. There are hundreds of years worth of styles out there to choose from, including the year 2012. So whether you are a nostalgic bride, pulling inspiration from the past, or a modern bride with a unique look, there is a way to make your headpiece your own.

• The Ceremony – Many people share their vows in a church, others outdoors, and some in their   own family’s home. But you can get married anywhere. Just to name a few interesting and different venue options:
  - An old theater
  - Restaurant
  - Hotel
  - Top of a building
  - Lodge
  I recently saw photos from a 1920s-esque wedding where they had the ceremony at an old theatre that was built in the twenties. The couple was married on stage while their friends and family sat in the audience.
• The Dinner/Reception – Get creative!
  - Fill a bathtub with ice and put drinks in it for easy grab and go. (Better for outdoor weddings.)
  - For centerpieces you don’t have to do flowers. Pictures, paper bouquet, lights/lamps, branches/moss/greenery, etc.
  - The food doesn’t have to be served by waiters. Fun tiered trays are a great way to present small finger foods. This can also act as part of the centerpiece.
• For your guests – Random/Fun
  - Paint a giant chalk wall to have your guests sign and draw on.
  - Hand out disposable cameras to everyone and have a wedding site for them to upload the best pictures to.
  - Photo booths with props are always fun
  - For the guys – hire a cigar roller.
  - Espresso bar.
  - Lounge furniture creates an intimate setting (Even outdoors!)

This is just a short list of ideas but hopefully it will get your mind working. Remember, there are no guidelines or rules for your wedding. So whether you are having your big event at the Mackey House or at another venue, just remember what you’re really celebrating, LOVE! Have fun, make it yours, and make it memorable.

DIY weddings have a personal, intimate flair that makes them individual and quaint. Plus, the more you save on the wedding, the more you have to spend on the honeymoon!

These are some money-saving tips and DIY ideas that will help you stay within your budget while still creating a fun and beautiful atmosphere for you and your guests.

1. Save big by having a smaller wedding with fewer guests. Make it close friends and family only.
2. Have the ceremony and the reception at the same place.
   a. Choose a venue that has several rooms or locations within it – indoor, outdoor, etc.  For example, The Mackey House provides the main house with several large rooms, a huge wraparound porch, a deck, and an open pavilion along with the garden and lake just outside.
3. Go with lighting over flowers.
   a. Lanterns and candles
   b. String lights
4. Choose only flowers in season, and don’t think you have to use flowers as centerpieces. Get creative and make your own if you have the time.
5. Fewer but bigger tables.
   a. Fewer tables mean fewer centerpieces, chairs, tablecloths, china, etc.
6. Limit number of bridesmaids if you plan on having any. (You don’t need more than a maid of honor).
7. Handwrite your:
   a. Invitations (you only need a single page)
   b. Place cards
8. You don’t have to have a three-course meal. Serve heavy hors d’oeuvres and have several mini desserts.
9. One favor per couple.
10. Don’t skimp on a photographer and don’t ask a friend to do it.
    They’ll probably feel pressured to say yes, and you want them to enjoy the wedding, not have to worry about capturing it.

Whether you plan on having your wedding at The Mackey House or at a different venue, remember you don’t have to splurge to make it a beautiful and
memorable day. A wedding is meant to celebrate love and life together, so the next time you’re ready to pull your hair out stressing over which flavor of icing to go with, just remind yourself what this day is really about.

Here are a few ideas that might help you get through an event you’ve only thought about in passing:

1)     Small weddings – they are no longer dirty words.  Many couples have decided their big day needs to be more intimate and about them rather than what’s going on around them.  We promise it’s no longer taboo.

2)     Eloping – a number of couples are opting to go to a vacation site – kin to starting the honeymoon early – to get married and
go right into the honeymoon.  Sites like Hawaii, Paris, the Philippians are seeing more and more couples coming to exchange vows and go right to the honeymooning part of their nuptials!

3)     Destination weddings – similar to eloping, the place becomes the important part of the pictures for the couple.  Numerous times it’s because the location means something to the couple, either meeting, dates, vacations, family, etc.  Whether honeymooning in the same location or just exchanging vows and going elsewhere, it’s becoming more and
more popular.

4)     Big receptions – sometimes you want to keep the actual wedding event intimate, your closest friends and family members, but
there’s an option to have a larger celebration for your reception.  Appetizer food to keep down on costs, a cash bar, and inviting everyone to be a part of the celebration of your marriage rather than the actual exchanging of the vows.  Local celebrities, couples on a budget, large extended families – this
option keeps lots involved but costs to a minimum.

Whatever you decide, keep in mind that it’s still your day, even if you don’t like being in the spotlight – and keeping your friends and family in mind to share your day will ultimately make your wedding day a memorable one.  Whatever we can do to help, please give us a call, we’ll be happy to help make arrangements.