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!

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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.



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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!