FUNdraiser Kick-Off Party Jan. 28th

Help support a GREAT CAUSE while have a GREAT TIME by attending the Kick-Off Party for Mark's Run 2010.

WHEN: Thursday, January 28th 7-9pm at

WHERE: Tony & Joe's, Georgetown (3000 K Street, NW)

WEBSITE: For more information click here.

RSVP to alexis_polakoff@landon.net.

There is no Admission Fee. Lite fare. Cash Bar. 21 and over only.
Casual Attire.

Silent Auction and Raffle to benefit the Mark Ferris Scholarship Fund at Landon School and the Joslin Diabetes Center. Prizes include items from Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and more! Special Auction Item -- Fabulous Home in Tulum, Mexico that sleeps 10!

All friends and family are invited!

An exclusive invitation from Washington Life Magazine & Mona Taner

You're not going to want to miss this!!

Please join Washington Life magazine and Mona Taner for the launch of her new boutique inside Mervis Diamond Importers. Enjoy cocktails and hors d'ouevres with Mona on Friday evening. Come back on Saturday and Sunday for Mona's trunk show.

Discover a distinctive diamond and 18-karat gold collection from the woman who is not afraid to have a little fun with her jewelry.

To stay informed about Mona Taner special events and promotions, please register at monataner.com.

Invitation for 'Fresh for UNICEF!'

Readers of Everything Events blog,

As a reader of our blog you are privileged to being invited to all the hot, fun events going on in and around DC. I have another great event to share with all of you.

Celebrate Fall with Greg's List-DC and Fresh Boutique of Georgetown (located at 1205 Potomac St., NW) on Friday, November 6 from 6:30-8:30pm at "Fresh for UNICEF!" Join them (and me!) for an evening of shopping, champagne, and cupcakes, while supporting a great cause!

Get a head start on your holiday shopping while sipping champagne and enjoying delectable cupcakes provided by Treet Shop (featured on Daily Candy!). Fresh will donate 10% of all sales that evening to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF (http://www.unicefusa.org) which supports UNICEF's child survival programs worldwide, and we'll have UNICEF's famous orange boxes all around the store for donating your spare change!
**All Greg's List-DC readers will receive a $25 gift certificate from Fresh for purchases of $75 or more, so be sure to mention that you're a loyal GLDC reader at the party!** All are invited, but please be sure to RSVP by November 4 to jamie@gregslistdc.com .

We look forward to seeing you and don't forget your spare change for UNICEF!

Cristina Maria in the news again!

Feel free to check out the 2-page online article of the Cristina Maria Special Events red carpet event for Jim Coleman Cadillac of Bethesda and Washngton Life Magazine!

http://www.washingtonlife.com/2009/11/01/red-carpet-curb-appeal-at-coleman-cadillac/

Stay tuned for pictures from the event!

Metro Event Specialists Halloween Networking Event

For my fellow DC event industry professionals that follow my blog,

Don't forget that Tuesday, October 27th is the night of the Metro Event Specialists Halloween Networking Event. It is the final MES event of the year so you don't want to miss it!

Be sure to RSVP at metroevents.org (or go to the Halloween Networking Mixer page) to have your name added to the guest list and to ensure there is a nametag made for you.

It is a free event! It is run by event professionals and for event professionals.

Hope to see you there!

Invitation to Not-so-big-wedding Boutique Bridal Show

This is not your typical bridal show! Montgomery Parks Event Center is challenging wedding vendors to create a joint wedding package for a ceremony and reception for 65 guests for under $15,000. The packages include catering, floral arrangements or other centerpieces, music, photography and a Montgomery Parks Event Center rental.

WHEN:

Sunday, November 8

Noon-5pm

WHERE:

Rockwood Manor

11001 MacArthur Blvd.

Potomac, MD

COST:

Free to public

Check out www.notsobigwedding.com for more information.

Invitation to the Bloomingdale's Bridal Show

We invite all our engaged readers to attend The Registry at Bloomingale's Tysons Corner's bridal show event coming up in 2 short weeks!

Please see the invitation below for more information.

You're Invited to the Washington Life Magazine red carpet event this Wednesday!

Readers of Cristina Maria Special Events' EVERYTHING EVENTS blog are welcome to attend the red carpet event happening this Wednesday, October 21 in Bethesda.

To attend, please RSVP at SRXevent.com.

This evening is made possible by the wonderful hosts, Jim Coleman Cadillac of Bethesda and Washington Life Magazine.

In addition, the amazing Special Featured Sponsors who are responsible for this amazing event that will include live music, food, beverages, and more!

Cristina Maria Special Events

MK Catering Inc.

Olivera Music Entertainment

Frost Lighting

Loudoun Valley Vineyards

Professional Bartenders & Servers, Inc.

Janet Flowers Wedding and Event Designs

Also the Sponsors who are responsible for the outstanding gift bags that are available for the first 200 guests.

Mervis Diamond Importers

Craze Chameleon Studio

Red Sprinkle, Online Vintage Dress Boutique

Westfield Montgomery Mall

Doubletree Hotel Bethesda

Doubletree Hotel Bethesda, Oz Restaurant

Georgetown Bagelry

Anessi Salon

Virtu Studios, Hair & Spa Saloon (Owner, Thierry Axaopoulos)

Dermatology & Clinical Skin Care Center and Rockledge Med Spa

Back to Basics (Etiquette and Dance Lessons for Kids)

Sassanova

Dalton Brody

Jewelry Rental Giveaway

From now until October 31, 2009 PreOwned Wedding Dresses is offering a great contest! You have a chance to win a $2,500 jewelry rental from Adorn Brides! The winner will be selected on November 2nd. Click here for more information and to enter.

You are not going to want to miss out on this. Adorn's jewelry is absolutely gorgeous. You can wear thousands of dollars worth of jewelry on your special day for a huge fraction of the price! Jewelry is such a great accessory for that perfect white dress. Feel like the million bucks that you are.

You should really look into PreOwned Wedding Dresses. It is such a great service! Whether you are selling your dress or buying one, you will want to check out their site. Go green! I am often asked by brides what can they do with their wedding dress when they are one. PreOwned Wedding Dresses is one of those great sites that allows you to recycle the dress to another bride.

Good luck, brides!

Cristina Maria featured in the Washington Life Magazine

Washington Life Magazine has listed Cristina Maria Special Events in their September issue's 2009 Balls & Galas The Hot List for Event Planners.

Washington Life is a wonderful publication which focuses on local DC-area events and vendors. It was established in 1991 and is the premier luxury-lifestyle magazine in the metropolitan area. They cover the area's most exclusive private parties, galas, fundraisers, art openings, fashion shows, and weddings. Being featured on their list of recommended event planners is quite the honor! Be sure to stay tuned for their wedding issue in May.

I have a few extra copies! Send me an email at info@cristinamariaevents.com if you’d like to pick up a free copy in my Tysons Corner office or Maryland office.

We are also featured on their list of Preferred Event Planners.

The Examiner Covers Our Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree

Feel free to check out The Examer's coverage of the Diamonds & Chocolate Soirée here.

Photo by McArthur Newell, II of BoldLifestyle Photography

For more pictures of the event check out the Jason Weil Photography pictures featured on the Cristina Maria Special Events page on Facebook and DC Metromix's pictures.

It wouldn't have been possible without all my wonderful vendors involved. They did such an amazing job as always!

Venue: Mervis Diamond Importers (DC location)

Caterer (Appetizers & Chocolate Desserts): MK Catering Inc., Joseph Choueike

Chocolate Fountain: The Chocolate Chick, Hilary Bradley

Diamonds & Jewelry: Mervis Diamond Importers

Bar Service & Signature Drink Designers: Professional Bartenders & Servers, Robert Gold

Invitation Design: Altronics Communications, Inc., Martin Posse

Photographer: Jason Weil Photography, Jason Weil

Rentals: MK Catering Inc., Joseph Choueike

Custom jewelry worn by Cristina Curcio: Meghan Rose Jewelry, Meghan Mullaney

Event Planner: Cristina Maria Special Events, Cristina Curcio

Bethesda Row's Restaurant Week

In case you haven't heard, 9 of Bethesda Row's restaurants are hosting their own Restaurant Week this week from Monday September 21st to Sunday, September 27th. They are offering two-course lunches for $12 and three-course dinners for $30.

For more information check out Washingtonian's article.

Welcome you to vote for 'Cristina Maria Special Events' in Bethesda Magazine’s Best Of List

Hi Friends,

I greatly appreciated your support for and business with Cristina Maria Special Events. I would be so grateful if you could please take a moment to vote for 'Cristina Maria Special Events’ in Bethesda Magazine’s Best Of List as the 'Best Party Planner' (category #64) at www.bethesdamagazine.com.

I recently joined one of my preferred caterers, MK Catering Inc. to manage their social events and receptions. I would be grateful if you added ‘MK Catering Inc.’ as the ‘Best Caterer’ (category #63).

It just takes a few seconds to vote especially if you use the list of suggested names below.

To learn more about MK Catering at www.mkcatering.com or feel free to contact me at cristina@mkcatering.com. There are several reasons they have been at the top of my list. They have always offered high quality food, service, and products; affordable prices; and custom packages. Now being hands on I am fortunate enough to offer my clients and friends even more tailored service and prices. Anyone who has been to one of my events has witnessed how they truly are a one-stop shop for all event planning needs and offer absolutely beautiful and delicious food. Of course my event planning clients do not have to work exclusively with them but more often than not they do for all the same reasons MK Catering has been one of my preferred vendors. Check out some of the mouthwatering pictures from the Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree on my blog.

The deadline for voting is in a little more than 24 hours away on Friday, September 18^th at 5:00 p.m.

For your vote to count for us, you need to answer a minimum of 25 Best Of’s. For those who are not local to Bethesda and the surrounding areas would like some suggestions, please view my list of 25 suggestions below.

To vote go to www.bethesdamagazine.com and then click on the blue bar towards the top of the page that reads “Take the ‘Best of Bethesda’ Readers’ Poll >.”

Thank you for taking the time to support your #1 Party Planner and #1 Caterer!

Thank you to those who have all ready voted!

With Many Thanks,

Cristina

1. BEST New Restaurant (in Montgomery County): Nest

9. BEST Sushi Restaurant: Raku

11. BEST Outdoor Dining: Mia’s Pizza

14. BEST Frozen Yogurt/Gelato: Café Gelato

15. BEST Place to Buy Bread: Georgetown Bagelry

17. BEST Gourmet Store: River Falls

18. BEST Deli: The Market on the Boulevard

20. BEST Boutique: Lemon Twist

21. BEST Place to Buy Jeans: Denim Bar

24. BEST Place to Buy Bathing Suits: South Moon Under

25. BEST Consignment Shop: Second Chance

26. BEST Place to Buy an Engagement Ring: Mervis Diamond Importers

29. BEST Party Store: Paper Store

31. BEST Hospital: Shady Grove Adventist Hospital

35. BEST Pediatric Dentist: Dr. Catherine Dietrich Pulse

40. BEST Hair Salon: Thierry Axaopoulos of Virtu Studios

43. BEST Personal Trainer: Stacy Neal of Anytime Fitness

48. BEST Private School for Sports: Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

49. BEST Private School for Academics: Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

52. BEST Summer Camp (Day Camp): Summer CampUs of Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

59. BEST Amusement Park (within a 3-hour drive): Kings Dominion

63. BEST Caterer: MK CATERING INC.

64. BEST Party Planner: CRISTINA MARIA SPECIAL EVENTS

66. BEST Realtor: Cara Pearlman of Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc

79. BEST Financial Planner: Ben T. Jolly of John Hancock Financial Network

Fabulous Signature Drinks & Beverage Event Planning Tips

I'm so glad everyone had as much fun as I did at the Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree. That's what it was all about! Thank you to everyone for your emails and messages.

The signature drinks created for the Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree were a big hit! They were cleverly intertwined into the "diamonds & chocolate" theme with their special names, Diamond Chocolate martini, Ruby Red Peach martini, and the Emerald Apple martini. They were sparkling with color sugar rims to match the drink of choice. We think of everything!

Photo by Jason Weil Photography

Now let me share the recipes and event planning tips involving the signature cocktail. You will be excited to find out how you can actually save on your planning budget when it comes to your beverages.

There are several fun and creative signature drinks and specialty bars you can plan for a special event. You could have one or more of the following specialty bars: margarita bar, daiquiri bar, or wine bar. For non-alcoholic options you could have a coffee bar, hot chocolate bar, smoothie bar, or milkshake bar. There are signature drinks that are non-alcoholic too so that those guests who choose not to drink can be included in the fun such as flavored waters each in a different hue. for a special twist provide sparkling water as an option for the flavored waters. You can also provide carafes of specialty juices.

Of course, for our special event we went for the elegant option of a martini bar.

Oh delish those signature drinks were!

Invitation Designed by Altronics Communications, Inc.

Check out the yummy ingredients of our 3 signature martinis below. Have fun making them at your own special event. I highly recommend Professional Bartenders & Servers if you are interested in excellent and experienced bartending service at your event.

Photo by Jason Weil Photography

Bar Service provided by Professional Bartenders & Servers

Diamond Chocolate Martini
• White Crème de Cacao
• Vodka
• Optional: White sugar rimmed glass

Ruby Red Peach Martini
• Peach Schnapps
• Grenadine
• Sour Mix
• Vodka
• Optional: Red sugar rimmed glass

Emerald Apple Martini
• Sour Apple Pucker
• Sour Mix
• Vodka
• Optional: Green sugar rimmed glass

To tie into our blue color theme I selected this sleek blue lit glass bar from MK Catering Inc. It was the perfect size for this area of the Mervis Diamond Importers store. You always have to be thinking about the floor plan when designing an event. We selected a spot in the back of the store that was optimal for the flow of traffic of the guests.

Photo by Jason Weil Photography

Bar provide by MK Catering Inc.

It is so simple, easy, and inexpensive to dress up your own cocktail party by adding those little details that make it so special and impressive. Signature drinks are just one way to do that no matter what type of special event you are hosting or the number of guests who are attending. Creating a couture cocktail is one way to add to your event's theme and ambience, make a statement about your style, and to share something about yourself (or in the case of a wedding, about your love story). You can be creative in designing your drink with the bartending service or catering manager by infusing your color theme, a location (either of where the event is taking place or of where the hosts originate from), or adapt your favorite drink of choice.

At one of the weddings I planned I worked with the bride and groom to incorporate this element into their cocktail hour. Because it was a destination wedding that took place in Puerto Rico, we planned for carafes of red and white sangria as well as a mojito bar using the Puerto Rican rum Bacardi. At the mojito bar guests could get in the festive mood by selecting which flavored mojito they would like to enjoy. We also incorporated that into the party favors in several ways but that is a story for another post.

In addition to adding personality and style to a special event, signature drinks are a great way to cleverly curb your bar bill. Also not to mention it adds to that wow factor that makes it memorable.

I bet you didn't realize that helpful saving tip. The bar bill is one of the most expensive elements of an event. It is great when you know how to avoid that part of the budget from getting out of hand. I know several more ways to save on your bar bill. Feel free to contact me at info@cristinamariaevents.com for more helpful tips.

For more information check out the blog posts labeled 'Event Planning 101,' 'Event Style Ideas,' 'Real Weddings' (coming soon!), 'Themed Party Ideas,' 'Tips,' 'Ways to Save,' 'Weddings,' and there are so many more to choose from. Also feel free to contact Cristina Maria Special Events at info@cristinamariaevents.com with any questions.

Shine in your moment!

Filene's Basement Designer Wedding Dress Sale TOMORROW

Don't forget about the Running of the Brides sale at Filene's Basement tomorrow in Friendship Heights. For more information see my previous posting.

Have fun!

Shine in your moment!

Do you need to include vendor meals in your wedding budget?

This is one element that is often overlooked by those new to event planning or are amateur wedding planners. I'm impressed by the brides who even think to ask me about this.

Blue Orchid's blog (Scottsdale, AZ wedding planners) provides a helpful blog post that answers all your questions (even the ones you didn't think to ask). Check it out!

Take a note of the comment made on this blog article. I would suggest asking the vendor what they would like by them the option between a warm dish (does not have to be the same meal you are offering to the guests) or a "boxed lunch."

If you have any further questions please do not hestitate to contact Cristina Maria Special Events at info@cristinamariaevents.com. We are happy to help!

Shine in your moment!

What goes into the pricing of the vendors you hire?

For helpful tips on this subject check out the Scottsdale, Arizona event planning Blue Orchid Blog posting from last month. The Blue Orchid blog explains how the price you pay for your vendor is not their salary and what goes into the money you spend on your wedding.

If you have any further questions please do not hestitate to contact Cristina Maria Special Events at info@cristinamariaevents.com. We are happy to help!

Shine in your moment!

DC Metromix pictures of the Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree

DC Metromix has posted their pictures from my Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree event this past Wednesday. The wonderful professional pictures shot by Jason Weil Photography will be available in a week. In the meantime, DC Metromix has put up their pictures of the special event. Check it out!

Yep! That's me, Cristina Curcio of Cristina Maria Special Events on the left with my fellow hosts (from left to right) Jon Mervis of Mervis Diamond Importers, Hilary Bradley of The Chocolate Chick, and Joseph Choueike of MK Catering Inc.

Bling, bling! As I mentioned before, my family has been a big fan of Mervis Diamond Importers' diamonds and ring sets for years. Featured in this picture are the Mervis diamond rings of Hilary Bradley (The Chocolate Chick), my mother, and one of my younger sisters.

One lucky gentleman took advantage of the exclusive sale going on that one night only. What did he purchase you wonder? Yes! A diamond engagement ring!

He was not the only person to walk away with a beautiful piece of jewelry for such a great deal. We had several lucky ladies who purchased some absolutely outstanding pieces. Stay tuned to this blog, my page on Facebook, and the Mervis Diamond Importers page on Facebook to learn of other special events and exclusive sales.

Let me guess. You are thinking, "So mouthwatering!" They sure were. MK Catering Inc. provided us with absolutely delicious chocolate desserts. I would tell you my favorite if I had one. I didn't because I LOVED THEM ALL! Just ask anyone who was at the special event. They were so yummy. Check out DC Metro's pictures of the special event to see more of the tasty treats that were available to our guests.

In addition, they pleasured our palates with amazing passed hors d'ouevres that showcased the wonderful talent of Chef Patrick Moulet of MK Catering Inc. He never ceases to amaze me. He has always creates such exquisite food. They truly demonstrated their ability to prepare multi-cultural food yet it was all cohesive at the same time; While your taste buds went on an international tour of the world, you enjoyed the fun and dazzling jewels right here in the heart of DC at Mervis Diamond Importers. After all, Chef Moulet has traveled and studied nationally and internationally to France, Thailand, Europe, and South America to acquire his culinary experience.

In addition to diamonds and chocolate, one of the highlights of our special event was the complimentary signature drinks designed specifically for this event. Professional Bartenders & Servers was nice enough to mix us up some mighty tasty concoctions, if I have to say so myself.

Weren't there and want to know what the delicatable drinks of choice were or want to see pictures of the 1st ever diamond chocolate fountain? Were there and want to get your hands on the recipes? I will be featuring a few posts over the next couple of weeks on my blog regarding the special event - the professional pictures from Jason Weil Photography, announcement of the raffle winner, hors d'oeuvres menu, signature drink recipes, and more. Stay tuned!

Also Weddzilla (an outstanding wedding website) already posted some pictures on their blog. I thought you might like to see that too.

I am glad so many of you were able to come and have as much fun as I did planning the event! I couldn't done it without my friends at Mervis Diamond Importers and the tremendous service and product of MK Catering Inc., The Chocolate Chick, Professional Bartenders & Servers, Inc., Altronics Communications, Inc., and Jason Weil Photography.

Thanks again for coming!

Shine in your moment!

Most unique wedding processional to date!

Best video ever! A friend of mind shared this video with me yesterday and I have to admit I cried. I know, I know. I'm a sap but I just can't hold the tears back when it comes to weddings, especially with something as personalized and touching as this wedding processional. It is so easy and inexpensive to make each and every wedding a unique special event that exudes the personality and heart of the couple. Just ask any couple I have worked with.

Shine in your moment!

OneWed Announced the "POP your Platinum Proposal" contest winner!

OneWed's "POP your Platinum Proposal" contest winner was announced this morning! One lucky couple has been awarded his & hers hand-engraved platinum wedding bands designed by Kirk Kara valued at over $4,500. Check out the announcement on One Wed's bridal blog, Savvy Scoop, which includes the winning proposal story and other top contenders.

For those who are not familiar with the contest check out my previous posting "WIN His & Hers Hand-Engraved Platinum Wedding Bands!" announcing the contest.

Stay tuned to my blog for other fun contests, ways to save, and special events.

Shine in your moment!

Diamond Rings 101

For those who are getting started on the hunt for the perfect diamond engagement ring, check out this help video courtesy of my friends at Mervis Diamond Importers.



Shine in your moment!

Weddings Unveiled

Cristina Maria Special Events' Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree special event is featured on the Weddings Unveiled Magazine blog. Check out more on the magazine here. Get inspired. I know I do!

Shine in your moment!

Sky AT Five Happy Hour tonight!

Don't forget that tonight is the Sky AT Five event at The Rooftop at the Rockville's Town Center. The party starts at 5p.m. and goes until 11p.m. The Rooftop is located at 155 Gibbs Street in Rockville’s Town Square. Just take the elevator to the 6th floor/rooftop.

The first 100 guests get a free Peroni, so come early and stay late.

I've been and it is such a great time. It is nice to enjoy a rooftop view while sipping some cocktails.

Event sponsors include Red Bull, Malibu, Absolut, Oro Pomodoro, Fenestra Apartments, and others.

The After Party is at Orange Ball Billiards!

Parking is a cinch! There is a parking garage in the Town Center and street parking all around.

If you can't make it tonight, don't fret. It will continue Thursday throughout the summer.

Happy hour!

Shine in your moment!

High-end Wedding Dresses for 50-75%!

If you are not already familiar with Harriet Kassman it has been a staple in Friendship Heights for several decades. It is a warm and friendly shop to visit when enjoying a nice afternoon of shopping or if you are specifically in the market for eveningwear, sportswear, bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and accessories.

Unfortunately, Harriet Kassman’s bridal salon is closing! Harriet has decided to retire. She will be selling off all her inventory at HUGE discounts. The sale will last until all their inventory is sold out. Their eveningwear, sportswear, and accessories will be sold at discounts starting at 30-60% off. Their wonderful bridal gowns (originally priced at $2,500 and up), bridesmaid dresses, and bridal accessories will be priced at 50-75% off.

Their store will be open for normal store hours -- Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 12-5, with extended hours on Thursday until 8 p.m.

Shine in your moment!

1st EVER $100,000 CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN!

I posed the question, "What's could possibly be yummier than diamonds and cupcakes?" in my recent blog posting. If you were like me last spring you thought there could be no better pairing that diamonds and cupcakes. But together Mervis Diamond Importers and I, Cristina Maria Special Events, are hosting a special event that will top the diamond encrusted cupcake... Diamonds & Chocolate Soiree. Yep, I said it ladies... CHOCOLATE!

One June afternoon at lunch the idea of "diamonds and chocolate" was born. Jon Mervis clearly understands the way us women think. He came up with the absolutely genius idea and I brought it to life bringing by kick starting the event planning needed to bring this all together in a short period of time. When Jon talked to me about the exquisite combination two vendors immediately came to mind. I quickly brought on board both The Chocolate Chick and MK Catering that I knew could bring this heavenly concept to life with their delectable chocolate desserts and wonderful service.

Please view the invitation below for this exclusive luxurious event! I would like to invite my readers to be my guests at this special event in just 2 weeks!

On July 22nd you will get to taste from the first ever $100,000 chocolate fountain. You'll have to see it to believe it! This special treat is compliments of Mervis Diamond Importers and The Chocolate Chick. I've seen it and its gorgeous and not to mention DE-licious!

Doesn't that invitation just make your mouth water?! My friends at Altronics Communications, Inc. did such a wonderful job! Wait and see what they did with the drink menu. Your taste buds won't want to wait to enjoy one of our cocktails.

Don't worry. You will be able to satisfy your tasty buds soon enough. From the help of my friends at MK Catering, Inc. you also will be able to indulge yourself with some tasty chocolate desserts and passed h'or d'oeuvres. In addition, they will be providing the blue light glass bar and their top of the line servers. It is only the best for the clients, fans, and friends of Cristina Maria Special Events.

It doesn't stop there. Courtesy of Professional Bartenders & Servers, Inc. you will be able to enjoy 3 signature drinks created just for this special event!

And it keeps getting better... while enjoying all of these treats and so much more, you can try on wonderful diamond jewelry pieces and view Mervis Diamond Importers' wide selection of diamonds. They will be offering a special discount prices on all jewelry at the store only for this event. If you are in the market for jewelry or enjoy pretty things, you won't want to miss this! There is a reason afterall that all the women in my family have Mervis Diamond rings. Check out other featured jewelry from Mervis on this blog under the "Trunk Show" label.

I am honored to have my friends at Jason Weil Photography be a part of this extraordinary special event. I can't wait to see his photographs of the 1st ever diamond chocolate fountain! You will be able to access his photographs after the event.

Our special event will be featured in the Washington Life Magazine's September Issue. You might be in the magazine's pages amongst pictures of Hollywood's & DC's top celebrities at events here in the best city in the world, Washington D.C.!

In addition, DC Metromix of CBS WUSA Channel 9 will be present. You might be lucky enough to be featured in our special event in their photo gallery.

To be on the special event guest list, please make sure to RSVP by Monday, July 20th.

Please feel free to share this invitation with your friends.

On behalf of Cristina Maria Special Events and my wonderful event industry friends, who are some of the top wedding and event professionals in the DC area and have worked with me to put this extravagent special event together, we hope you will come and have fun on us! I know we will!

Shine in your moment!

The Diamond Encrusted cupcake makes an appearance again!

If you are familiar with my friends Mervis Diamond Importers and my blog than you already know about the birth of the first ever diamond encrusted cupcake in April 2009. Well back my popular demand they brought it back in May for the Martin Flyer Ring Trunk Show May 1-2, 2009!

I was able to check it out on May 2nd. Not only that but I got to indulge myself with one of the tasty cupcake treats. Yep! That absolutely delicious cupcake with the red flower was all mine! Can you tell I have a soft spot for sweets?

While enjoying the tasty treats I was able to check out some of the Martin Flyer FlyerFit collection and Martin Flyer Classic collection. I took some pictures of some of my favorites to share with you!

This first one I would like to share you caught my eye right away. It is of a total weight of .60 ct and its item number is 917309.

The one on the right is .45 ct (item 913309). The ring on the right is .55 ct (item # 910109).

Last but not least this beautiful, glimmering ring is .35 ct (item #

96509).

To see more of the Martin Flyer collections check them out at Mervis Diamond Importers. They are one of their select jewelry designers.

What's could possibly be yummier than diamonds and cupcakes?

Shine in your moment!

Exclusive Bridal Event & Fashion Show!

I wanted to share with my bridal readers an exclusive event coming up next weekend from my friends at Westin Arlington Gateway. You are not going to want to miss this!

There will be complimentary hors d'oeuvres, a champagne tasting, a fashion show, and more! See the invitation below for all the details.

Shine in your moment!

Etiquette for the Internet Generation

For those of you who have children preparing for your bar mitzvah, bat mitzvah, or to go back to school, you should check out Back to Basics ™ program on Sunday, July 26, 2009. I'm honored to share with you details on this manners workshop for kids hosted by Deborah Joy Block of The Wedding Dance Specialists, friend of Cristina Maria Special Events. It can help prepare them to be well behaved at formal functions so they can put their best foot forward!

It’s purpose it to help the Internet Generation rediscover the simple pleasures of human interactions such as courtesy, tolerance, consideration and the human touch, despite the growing impersonal nature of our environment. Today's youth live in a fast-paced digital world where interpersonal contact is often conducted via cell phones, text messaging, TV and computer screens.

Good manners and proper personal presentation is not a luxury but rather a necessity in today's increasingly competitive society. Proper etiquette is a mandatory social reality.

• Life Skills
• Table Manners
• Daily Etiquette
• Character and Leadership Education
• Telephone and Conversation Skills
• Thank you notes
• Introductions
• Phone skills
• Dining Skills
• Setting a Formal Table

Deborah Joy Block, the Protocol Instructor for Back to Basics has taught social dance etiquette and special event protocol to thousands of students for 12 years and publishes a popular monthly newsletter providing guidance on social event etiquette for the past 7 years that has been distributed to a total of 35,000 households. Mrs. Block graduated from the prestigious American School of Protocol an elite etiquette school which has been profiled by every major TV channel - ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, FOX and the BBC. There she was certified to teach Manners and Etiquette and Life Skills to k-12.

Details of Back to Basics

Date: Sunday, July 26, 2009

Covering: Proper Introductions, Hand shakes, Eye Contact, Good conversation skills, Thank you Notes, Respect and Courtesy, Social Dancing, Dance Floor Etiquette and more!

Workshop 1: 1st – 5th grades at 9am -12 noon

Workshop 2: 6th-9th grades at 12:30 – 3:30

Location: Star Lounge and Ballroom, 7203 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA 22003

Registration Form: find the form at www.backtobasicsmanners.com

Payment: with credit card over the phone or online at http://mannersworkshop.eventbrite.com

Fall Workshops will include: Cell/Telephone Manners, setting a formal table, dining etiquette which includes a 4 course meal, good posture and presentation, social dancing and dance floor etiquette.

A portion of revenues will be donated to the Shriners Hospital for Children.

Check out the websites of Back to Basics and School Steps for featured articles and more information on the event, programs, and Deborah Joy Block.

Feel free to contact Deborah Joy Block, Back to Basics Director at 703.732.4846 or info@backtobasicsmanners.com.

Providing our children the tools that give them confidence goes a long way.

So they can shine in their moment!

Save-the-Date! September 12th, 2009

The save-the-date for the 3rd Annual Turning the Page Gala event I mentioned yesterday went out this morning! Here's your very own copy of the invitation! I hope you can join us!

Don't miss THE gala of the fall 2009 season & help a child in OUR area in need

For those of you who are regular readers of my blog, you know that I always like to share everything fun going on with events whether it is tips for your own event or details on fun, local events going on. After all this is the "Everything Events" blog.

Well I have another fun event to share with you. This September is the Third Annual Turning the Page Gala. If you haven't already heard of the absolutely wonderful non-profit organization, I feel privileged to share a little bit of Turning the Page's story, their mission, and their gala with you.

History of Organization and Gala
Turning the Page (TTP) was founded in 1998 in response to the challenges facing the DC public school system. Since that time, TTP has partnered with public elementary and middle schools in Northeast and Southeast DC, working to increase parental involvement in the schools and provide teachers with resources to support their classroom lessons. They have distributed more than 60,000 new books to children, held more than 700 events for families, and worked with more than 300 teachers and their 3,000+ students to introduce arts and science-based educational activities into their classrooms.

2009 marks their 11th year in service to the public school community and our 3rd annual fundraising gala. This year’s event will be held at the Carnegie Institution of Washington and will be an evening for 200 supporters in the DC business and philanthropic community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2008-2009 school year and also raise funds to support TTP’s programs in 2009-2010. Their fundraising goal for the event this year is $45,000 which will allow them to maintain their programs at current levels despite a difficult funding environment. Their goal is to raise $10,000 from their impressive selection of silent auction items. One hundred percent of the proceeds of the gala and silent auction will support TTP’s programs in their seven partner schools.

Turning the Page 2008-2009: By the Numbers

• 7 School Partners in Wards 5-8
• 56 Community Nights which included parent workshops, book giveaways, child mentoring and family dinners;
• 14 Author visits as part of Community Nights where parents shared an evening talking with local and nationally known children’s authors;
• 590 parents and their approximately 1,000 children participated in Community Nights;
• 5,000+ new, high-quality children’s books distributed to families during workshops and through child mentoring;
• 40 university students devoted more than 1,800 hours reading with and leading educational activities for students during Community Nights;
• 26 teachers and their more than 440 students participated in a ten week photography and writing program, visiting the Anacostia Community Museum or National Building Museum;
• 9 teachers and their more than 180 students participated in a 24 week photography and writing program; each student visited 4 museums, took 4 rolls of film and will exhibit their work in the Phillips Collection this summer;
• 50+ teachers participated in professional development sessions aimed at increasing parental involvement in their schools.

Details of the Gala:

When: Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Where: Carnegie Institution of Washington

Attire: Black-Tie & Elegant Attire Requested

Featuring: Professional photography by Sara Duke Biscoe Photography, live music by Keith Matthis & Exclusive Report, an open bar with wine and specialty martinis, a silent auction, passed h'or d'oeuvres, and catered sit-down dinner.

Tickets: Please contact me at info@cristinamariaevents.com for ticket information. I will be able to offer you a limited time ticket price at a discounted rate.

Information: To find out more information on the 3rd Annual TTP Gala and the Turning the Page organization please click on the linkable text.

Your Help:

Whether you can attend the gala or not there are others way you can lend a helping hand. TTP always appreciates the support whether you volunteer your time or your money. Every contribution big and small makes a HUGE difference. If you would like to donate today please click here if you are interested in volunteer opportunities and here if you would like to make a financial contribution. Times are tough these days for us all but times area always tough for these children. On behalf of Cristina Maria Special Events and Turning the Page thank you for your help and support!

I'm honored that Cristina Maria Special Events can be a part of such a wonderful event for an organization that really makes a difference right here in our own city. I hope you will be able to be a part of the event too.

Dinner & Magic EVERY SUNDAY!

Life is always filled with endless To Do lists and days that never seem to be long enough. Don't forget to take a break from your busy and time consuming event planning and your To Do lists to enjoy some fun with your loved ones. I always hear from married couples who didn't use a wedding planner, that they didn't feel like they had time to enjoy the engagement because they were busy with work and wedding planning. Take part of one day a week at least to enjoy some fun and laughter whether you are planning an event or not. Don't let time pass you by to enjoy life, laughter, and your loved ones. Remember you are not alone. Balance is something we all work on throughout our lives.

Want to enjoy something different with your fiance/fiancee, family and friends? Looking for something fun and different to do on a Sunday evening? In search of fun, interactive entertainment for your bar/bat mitzvah?

Well I have just the ticket! Any Sunday evening enjoy dinner and magic at Kemble Park Tavern in the Palisades located at 5125 Macarthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20016 from 6-8pm. Josh Norris of Interactive Magic will be there performing tableside magic. Make reservations at Kemble Park Tavern today!

Feel free to check out Josh Norris' entertainment schedule for a list of his public appearances.

Have fun!

Happy planning!

WIN His & Hers Hand-Engraved Platinum Wedding Bands!

I would love to help you get your platinum wedding bands for FREE so I have to share with you a contest going on courtesy of OneWed.com and Platinum Guild International.

OneWed will be awarding one lucky couple his & hers hand-engraved platinum wedding bands designed by Kirk Kara valued at over $4,500 in their "POP your Platinum Proposal" contest as a nod to the movie “The Proposal” that dropped last weekend. In “The Proposal” Sandra Bullock's character (Margaret Tate) "proposes" (if you have seen the movie or previews you understand why it is in quotes) to Ryan Reynolds' character (Andrew Paxton).

With Margaret's proposal to Andrew in mind, OneWed thought it’d be fun to ask brides how they would have popped (or did pop) the question to their hubbies-to-be (had they been in their fiance’s shoes). If you are anything like me and most ladies out there, you have given some thought to how you would like to be proposed to or how you would have liked to be proposed to. Here's your chance to use those ideas to win wedding bands!!!!!

To enter, you brides-to-be must tell OneWed in 200 in words or less how you did or would "POP your Platinum Proposal" (in other words how you did or will propose to the love of their life). They are accepting platinum proposal stories from both brides and grooms. Just send in your entry (including your OneWed username) to savvyscoop@onewed.com before midnight on July 15th, and you'll be entered to win these Kirk Kara platinum wedding bands!

Don't forget, you must register on OneWed.com first, and provide your OneWed username along with your Platinum Proposal story! For full contest details, rules, and guidelines, click HERE!

For those of you who are interested in looking at various rings to get an idea of styles and settings check out OneWed's wedding and engagement ring gallery. You can also purchase rings from the site.

Winning this contest... what a way to save! Good luck!

Shine in your moment!

Verragio & Diana Diamond Ring Trunkshow this weekend!

Recently engaged, soon-to-be engaged, or just like me you just like to look at pretty things? Then don't forget to swing by and visit my friends at Mervis Diamond Importers Verragio Ring Trunk Show this weekend, Saturday & Sunday, June 13-14. There is a reason the Casanova-Curcio women in my family all wear Mervis diamonds. See for yourself.

They will be showcasing Diana and Verragio. These two designers will be flying in with their entire collections and offering special discounts for the day! They'll be showing hundreds of different styles in both platinum and gold, for both men and women.

**TIP** Visiting Ring Trunk Shows is a great way to get an idea of your style and that of your partners for engagement and wedding bands. The associates at Mervis Diamond are so helpful in answering all your questions. I speak from experience. This comes unsolicited. They really are great. Learn from their expertise. Please feel free to contact me as well (info@cristinamariaevents.com) as I am happy to answers your questions as you learn about diamonds and rings styles. Maybe you already know what you like but are having trouble finding it. I am sure both Mervis Diamond and I can help you with all your questions.

Here's the 411 on the Ring Trunk Show:

Where:

• Tysons Headquarters location --1900 Mervis Way, Tysons Corner, VA 22182
• Rockville Store location -- 1775 Rockville Pike, Rockville MD 20852

When:

• Saturday, June 13, 10-6
• Sunday, June 14, 12-5

Hope to see you there!

Shine in your moment!

Free Events in DC

No need for us to break the bank to have fun especially when money is tight. Whether you are saving for your wedding or feeling the squeeze from the recession, we can all enjoy a free thing or two. Check out this blog on information on FREE events in DC.

http://freeindc.blogspot.com/

Enjoy!

Designer Wedding Dress at Discount Prices ONE Day Only

Filene's Basement Running of the Brides Bridal Event COMING TO DC NEXT MONTH

Filene's Basement is known for its bargains on everything from fashions to home goods, but perhaps the store is most famous for its annual Bridal Gown Events when brides-to-be can save hundreds, even thousands of dollars on designer wedding gowns.

When: Jul 31, 2009 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Where: Filene's Basement at Mazza Gallerie (5300 Wisconsin Ave., Washington DC 20015)

Website: Filene's Basement

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many gowns are there?

There will be 1500-3000 gowns!

How much do they cost?

$249, $499 and $699.

What were the original prices?

$900 to $9,000 plus!

Win A Free Wedding Dress:

WeddingWire and Filene's Basement are giving away gift certificates towards a wedding dress of your choice at the DC Running of the Brides event. Check out the website to enter to win.

Shine in your moment!