Allison Sargent Events

2012-01-31T12:54:00.000-08:00

Hello ASE fans! As the snow is melting away with the month of January coming to an end, the warm sunny weather seems to be starting to come out for February and soon to be Valentine’s Day which we love! Being the month of LOVE, here at ASE we wanted to share with you one of the things we really LOVE: Not-For-Profit Organizations, such as the Ray Festa Melanoma Foundation.

The Ray Festa Melanoma Foundation (RFMF) is committed to educating everyone 12 years old and up on the importance of being “Sun Smart”. Their message is simple. They advocate that everyone should have fun in the sun, through sports and other outdoor activities, but should take precautions when doing so. RFMF is a “lifestyle” foundation different form other medical research organizations that raise monies to fund bench research.

ASE had a blast working with this tremendous organization on their gala and below we wanted to share some pictures from the event.

As a final word, if you’re looking for the best way to spread the love this Valentine’s Day or looking for something to do for an Alternative Spring Break this year, why not contribute some of your time volunteering for this wonderful organization! For more details check out their website at www.rayfesta.org .

Exclusive Bridal Event

2012-01-17T10:17:00.000-08:00

ALLISON SARGENT EVENTS, JAEHEE BRIDAL, AND TOWN & COUNTRY’S GUIDE TO THE TRENDS FOR 2012 WEDDINGS

A night in review! Recently we teamed up with Jaehee Bridal and Town & Country Weddings for an exclusive Bridal event! The event was located at the beautiful Jaehee Bridal Atelier and brides who attended were informed about the latest trends and tips for event planning, fashion, flowers, hair & makeup and beyond. The event hosted many amazing vendors including Kenneth Pool, World Yacht, Couture Ink, KC Creations, Jamie K Photography, Hank Lane Music, The Catchy Caterer, Esthetica Salon and Mexico Tourism Board.

The objective of the event was to give brides as much information and knowledge of how to plan the perfect wedding along with choosing the perfect gown. Attendees were able to meet with different vendors who offered their expertise and advice in areas ranging from flower arrangements to hair and makeup. Throughout the night Jaehee Bridal models also modeled spring 2012 couture gowns which were all to die for!

The most unforgettable moment of the night was when Jaehee Bridal Atelier & Allison Sargent Events donated a wedding gown and six bridesmaid dresses to a breast cancer survivor to have for her own wedding day. The lucky bride was not the only winner of the evening, there was also several giveaways from vendors, including a free honeymoon in a four-star luxury resort to Mexico, a dinner cruise for two on The World Yacht, complimentary makeup and hair, and much more. Overall it was a fabulous night for brides to learn more about different aspects of their wedding and really learn from the experts! Stay tuned for upcoming dates as this series will continue in 2012! Be sure to email info@allisonsargent.com if you would like to be included on the guest list!

xo ASE

If you missed this event stay tuned for more 2012 wedding trends from Allison on our future blog posts. Or you can follow us on our twitter @asargentevents or on our facebook http://www.facebook.com/AllisonSargentEvents. Be also sure to check out our website www.AllisonSargent.com to see the caliber of our work or if you would love to have ASE plan your upcoming 2012 wedding or event, contact us at info@AllisonSargent.com for more details!

XOX ASE

Lighting Dos and Dont's

2011-09-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

Good Morning ASE Fans... Or if this is your first time checking out our blog welcome! Over here in New Jersey since Hurricane Irene we feel the rain will just not stop! And not only do we have rain, but we have these high powerful winds and crazy thunder/lightning storms as well. Thankful that we have power (and ASE hope everyone is still ok and that your power has either returned or will be back soon!), I was doing a little reading during the lightning storm last night and came across an article in "the knot" about lighting that I thought would be fun to share, by Lisa Freedman and Lighting Guru Bentley Meeker who shares his hot tips.

Lighting Dos and Dont's… Rules to help guide your way to a perfectly lit event!

DON'T leave it up at an amateur

Some people look at lighting like another box off the checklist and will leave it up to the DJ to bring in a few extra lights. Lighting however, often has an even bigger impact then centerpieces, and an experienced professional should be called in.

DO make a personal connection with your lighting expert

Picking a lighting designer is just like picking an event planner (such as Allison Sargent Events) or florist- you want to make sure they get your personality and vision for the day.

ASE TIP: When making a connection with your lighting professional see if they have a website or a portfolio where you can view their work. Also, check to see if they have worked at your venue before- do they come recommended by the venue, are there any pictures of the venue using their work? DON'T be afraid to ask questions, any professional lighting technician will have the answers and credentials to back their work up.

DO visit your site in the evening.

If you're planning an evening reception or event, visit your venue at least once when it's dark outside. Here, you will notice what areas need to be lit, where you can focus the lighting, etc.

DON'T feel like you have to know technical lighting terms.
lighting lingo

Experts can design a space based on just a few descriptive words from you, but be clear. You can not do a test run on the lights, once the lights are set only minor adjustments can be made. Below are a key lighting terms and the photos are of lighting used at Allison Sargent Events!

Pinspot: A pointed focused beam of light that shines directly onto an onject. Often sed to highlight a wedding cake (or giant cupcake pictured below) or floral center piece.

Up-Lighting: These fixtures create what's called a "wash," which is essentially a blanket of colored light covering a wall or pillar. (to the very bottom right of the picture above, you can notice lights on the floor pointed upwards (up-lighting) shining color on the curtains)

LED: Short for light-emitting diodes, LED lights are popular for weddings because they use less electricity than (and don't get as hot as) incandescent light bulbs. They can sometimes be wireless, so they're often more discreet. They're also common in strand and perfect for accent lighting but not always environmental light. (Pictured below is an LED light up bar! )

GOBOS: Circular stencils that are put over a light to project a design or pattern. Popular gobo designs are monograms, dates or other wedding motifs. The complexity of the design will affect the gobo's cost- a simple stencil can be stamped out of steel while a more intricate design must be laser-etched out of stainless steel or into glass that can withstand high heat (an example of a gobo are the lighted designs picture below)

ASE is very proud to say we have great relationships with not only venues in New Jersey, New York, and the surrounding area, but, we also have great vendors such as professional lighting experts who we use on a regular basis! If you liked the pictures you saw above and would like to see and know more on our lighting vendors please feel free to contact us at info@allisonsargent.com or by direct office line at (973) 783- 5689! Have a great rest of the day and we hope this blog "shone a little light" on something that you might not have already known about event lighting!

A Slam Dunk Bar Mitzvah

2011-08-25T11:40:00.001-07:00

This week we are featuring a special Basketball Themed Bar Mitzvah.

The ceremony was held at the Smoke Rise Village Inn in Kinnelon, and the party was held at the home of the family’s Grandmother, also in Smoke Rise--both venues were gorgeous!

ASE had a great time planning this event. The ceremony was held in the morning at the Smoke Rise Village Inn, nestled in the Smoke Rise community. It was a great venue to host such a wonderful occasion; offering both elegance and gracious hospitality for the party.

The ceremony went off without a hitch and the “TEAM” table, where guests donated MATH related items for the Charter School of Newark, was a special unique touch created by the Family.

Next came the party, Woooo Hooooo! A special bus transported the Bar Mitzvah Boy and all his friends to his party’s location.

The Party included all of the Bar Mitzvah Boy’s favorite things… basketball, basketball, and more basketball… and candy!

A custom made court, inside his own special stadium constructed from a special tent, was designed for the Bar Mitzvah Boy, inspired from his love of the game. Along with the half court; a DJ, mini basketballs, custom jerseys, and banners also adorned the Stadium.

Entertainment, however, was not just limited to the outside tented stadium, inside the Grandmother’s home, a casino – with dealers and special playing chips, green screen photo station, beverage and food station were also created.

A highlight of the afternoon was a special surprise appearance by the basketball Wizards, who entertained the guests with their amazing basketball tricks and comedy!

Guests were also once again treated with a full (sweet tooth pleasing) candy bar and custom designed souvenir gym bag and basketball with the Bar Mitzvah Boy’s logo at the conclusion of the celebration.

Once again, we had a great time working with the family and creating a special memorable event for them. ASE looks forward to future events that we could help anyone of our followers with. Contact us to help you plan your next SLAM DUNK EVENT!

xox ASE

Bridal Luncheon

2011-08-11T13:49:00.000-07:00

You’ve crossed your t’s, dotted your i’s, and checked off the remaining wedding checklist -- all thanks to the relentless help of your bridesmaids! The big day is nearing and to thank everyone you are throwing a Bridesmaid Luncheon!

With the combination of ASE’s expertise and careful vendor selection, we can provide you with powerhouse resources, capable of executing a memorable and fabulous luncheon. ASE considers your tastes, the dynamics of your guest, the budget and the theme you have in mind in order to recommend the right entertainment, décor, sound, venue, and more! ASE will pay close attention to every detail and every aspect of your bridal luncheon to create a realistic timeline needed for proper planning. Most importantly, we will be available for you, responsive to your needs and requests, and flexible to any and all changes that occur during the planning process. ASE’s goal for each event we do is to create a highly personal atmosphere that captures your vision.

Event Style & Design
• Research & create design plan for event
• Design review meeting (s) with client

Venue/Vendor Research & Selection
• Meeting(s) with client
• Research locations based on budget & requirements
• Site visit(s) with client
• Destination management

Coordination of Event Printed Materials
• Design save-the-date and Invitation
• Coordinate Calligraphy
• Mail save-the-date and Invitation
• Manage RSVPs
• Design additional Collateral

Coordinate Gifts & Amenities
• Research/Design unique gift ideas for guests
• Custom Wrap Gifts

Manage Event Logistics

• Create layouts of event spaces
• Create detailed timeline of events
• Confirm all vendors
• Finalize production schedule for all vendors 24 hours prior
to event
• Continuously discuss and revise ideas for Event with Client
• Manage event database

Day of Event Coordination
• Onsite of Venue- Check in all deliveries from vendors
• Oversee set-up of venue (décor, lighting, staging, place settings, escort cards, etc…)
• Monitor and oversee physical operations
• Manage production according to schedule and/or the direction of the Client
• Provide general family assistance
• Welcome Guests as they arrive/Thank Guests at the end of the evening

Listed below are additional Events we can Coordinate for you as well!

Coordinate Additional Events
• Engagement Parties
• Showers
• Rehearsal Dinners
• Brunches

For more information about Allison Sargent Events visit our website www.allisonsargent.com, find us on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/AllisonSargentEvents, or email us at info@allisonsargent.com!

Signature Drinks

2011-08-04T09:06:00.001-07:00

Signature drinks (or cocktails) at events have become more and more popular over the recent years. Here at ASE, we think if done correctly, a signature drink can be a great little detailed touch that will add some flair and fun to any event.

The signature cocktail reflects the theme of the event; it could be the host's favorite liqour, match the color scheme, be named after the hosts, could be one drink or could be multiple!

A great idea from Martha Stewart Weddings was turning a signature cocktail not only into a delicious drink, but doubled the cocktail as an escort card too!

Concerned about adding another drink to the budget? A great alternative to a full bar is to offer guests party wine, beer, champagne, and the signature cocktail(s)!

ASE's signature drink is the Fleur-De-Tini, but we would love to hear what yours is! Please comment below, leave a comment on our facebook page, or tweet us!!!

ASE's signature drink is the Fleur-De-Tini
Recipe:
6 Mint leaves
8 Blueberries
1 Tsp sugar
Dash of lime juice
Muddle
Add ice
1 1/2 oz Light Rum
Strain ice & Enjoy!

Summer Entertaining

2011-07-21T12:55:00.001-07:00

Summer is the perfect time for throwing a party! Whether the party is outside or indoors, the warm weather just all around puts everyone in a happier mood. The summer also allows for endless party theme ideas. We found an article by TLC listing the “Top 10 Summer Party Decorating Themes” (@ http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/10-summer-party-decorating-themes2.htm) which we thought was great to share.

We also wanted to add our 11th Summer Entertaining Party Idea as well… Nautical! Here are a couple of photos demonstrating how a nautical theme party can be done.

Pictured below (and above) is our take on a Nautical "Escort Card Table", featuring all different elements that correlate with the Nautical Theme; Signal Flags, Buoys,Pilings, and of course, a Life Saver!

The international maritime signal flags are a way of representing individual letters of the alphabet in signals to or from ships. It is a component of the International Code of Signals (INTERCO).

ASE is crazy for flags! We just loved using this iconic nautical element in our design. We also took the flags and spelled out the guest of honor’s name, DREW, and incorporated it into the design scheme as well for a unique touch!

The centerpieces consisted of beautiful hydrangeas, lemon leaves, little yellow and red roses, but what really made them stand out were their Nautical accents of mini buoys and Flags that were used to differentiate the tables! (to the right of the flag is an example of Drew’s named spelled out in Signal Flags)

A common practice for most special events or weddings is a sign in book, where guests can write a special note to the guest of honor. Here is our spin on an old tradition, to keep with our Nautical Theme was asked the guests to sign a buoy for the guest of honor to have as a keepsake!

A Bat Mitzvah Beach Bash

2011-07-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

Hello ASE fans, so if you have been following us, you know we have talked about our big Beach Bash for Max’s Bar Mitzvah (and if not you still can look for the blog because the party truly was amazing). So, to continue with our Beach Bash theme we also wanted to share with everyone another take on the theme; a Bat Mitzvah Beach Bash!

This Beach Bash themed Bat Mitzvah was for Sydney, a client who loved the color purple and the beach. So with a beautiful color palette of purple, were able to infuse it with a variety of gorgeous beach elements, which can be seen from the escort cards, to the tablescapes, and furniture. The color was even infused into the beach themed cake! Here are a couple of pictures that showcase how a beach theme can once again be used for any special birthday or event for a girl, a boy, or even adults!

The Wedding Cake

2011-07-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!! I hope everyone's Wednesday is going well and is cool, it is a scorcher over here in New Jersey! So as you all know from recent posts we are new to this whole blogging world and posting blogs... but today we came across the best blog from Hot Pink Brides about "The Wedding Cake" and the evolution and history of wedding cakes and we just had to share it with everyone! Having just recently orchestrated our very own ASE wedding for team member Carly, we instantly thought of her beautiful wedding cake which was designed and baked by Celebrity Cake Baker Wendy Kromer (seem familar? yes, she is the one who is featured in all of the Martha Stewart magazines!). So, ASE thought it would be fitting if we also paid tribute to the blog and share it with our followers as well! So i hope everyone enjoys a little slice of history on the wedding cake ;) ! xox ASE

The Evolution of the Wedding Cake

The history of the wedding cake goes as far back as the Roman Empire. Did you know that they use to break the cake over the brides head?? The groom would eat part of the loaf of bread baked especially for the wedding and break the rest over his bride. It was suppose to symbolized the breaking of the bride’s virginal state. Ummm I think I am glad that tradition did not make it to today’s date but, that is why today we see the bride and groom smashing cake in each others face.

In Medieval Europe cakes were described as breads with some sweetening. There are stories of a custom involving stacking small sweet buns in a large pile in front of the newlyweds and the couple would attempt to kiss over the pile. This is where the stacking of the cream puffs in a pile like the modern day french wedding cake came from. It was said if the bride and groom could successfully kiss over the pile they would produce many children.

From the 17th century to the 19th century there was a pie called the “brides” pie. The pie was filled with sweet bread or a simple mutton pie. The main ingredient was a ring made out of glass. They claimed that the lady who found the ring while eating the pie would be the next to be married. It is said that over time this custom has changed and formed into today’s version of the lady who catches the bouquet is the next to be married.

But why where wedding cakes always white?? The symbolism attached to the color white meaning “purity” is the reason that from the beginning using bread until today the preferred wedding cake color is still white. Since the wedding cake was originally called the “brides” cake a white cake was a symbol of the brides purity. This not only highlighted the bride as the main figure of the wedding, but also created a link visually between the bride and the cake. In 2010 81% of wedding cakes in the USA used white icing!

So why do we save the top layer of the wedding cake??? This one I found the most interesting so apparently most people got pregnant and had a baby about 10 to 11 months after they got married. So somewhere around the early 20th century when the multi tiered wedding cake started to become popular instead of having a grand cake for your wedding and an elaborate cake for your child’s christening they would save the top layer of the wedding cake to serve at the christening.

(Wendy Robinson photography photo credits)

Max Marell's Beach Bash

2011-07-06T12:25:00.001-07:00

Over Memorial Day this year, the REAL “Jersey Shore” of surf, sand, and fun came to the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park NJ to help Max Marell celebrate his Bar Mitzvah (which also conveniently fell on his birthday as well). The Park Avenue Club,a private dining club that offers fine dining in a beautiful, unique setting along with the high level of exclusivity,served as a great venue for us to utilize when hosting such a special event--Max's Bar Mitzvah. The Park Avenue Club was transformed for the night into one Big Beach Bash just for Max Marell, his family and guests to enjoy!

From the elegant beach cocktail area to the fun and vibrant boardwalk game themed kids tables, the floral & décor elements by Stem. & Co, allowed the guests to feel the Jersey Shore atmosphere and truly get into the beach sun and fun spirit. Guests were once again awed as soon as they transitioned from the cocktail reception area into the dining room by the breathtakingly elegant beach tablescapes that incorporated soft tones echoing the Jersey Shoreline. Three giant 4ft tall beach balls, white lounge furniture, vibrant lighting by EventLights, and an illuminated dance floor with energetic MC Morgan and dancers from Pure Energy were also there waiting to greet the guests into the room and onto the dance floor to continue Max’s Bar Mitzvah Celebration which went well into the night!

The ASE Team would once again like to congratulate Max Marell and his family on his Bar Mitzvah, it was a pleasure to work with them and all of our other great vendors. This event truly was a great start to the summer events ahead--Surf’s Up!

(credits to Wendy Robinson Photography)

Allison Sargent of Allison Sargent Events was recently named "New Jersey's Events Expert" by The Star Ledger's Kimberly L. Jackson!

2011-07-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

Thinking of all the events that add the most meaning to our lives, it would be easy to imagine the year as one big calendar whose dates are filled in with various festive gatherings.

Starting with New Year’s Day brunch and moving through the birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, weddings and baby showers, our happiest moments are often those spent with others. Through the shared celebration of milestones, accomplishments, holidays and just plain friendship, we facilitate expressions of love, appreciation and camaraderie while reinforcing important social traditions.

But with those traditions, there are often a lot of tension-generating expectations. And when the setting for a celebration is also our home, worries about getting everything just right can be magnified.

“It is just a human condition that when we entertain at home -- no matter what that home is, no matter what size or scale -- we're always concerned what people are thinking of our surroundings or if we are doing a good job,” says Allison Sargent, a Montclair event planner.

And she should know. As the lady wearing the “expert” badge, she is under even greater pressure to accurately interpret the traditions and values of various corporate and social cultures while staging gatherings for the likes of Donald Trump and major corporations such as American Express or British Airways. Last October, her company was behind the launch celebration for Hilton hotel corporation’s Eforea spas, which drew hundreds of VIPs to Short Hills for opening night.

Whether it’s a business gala, a Sweet 16 party, a wedding or a fundraiser, Sargent maintains the same calm, in-control presence. Along with planning an event, she often finds herself acting as an arbiter of good taste when clients consult her on the menu they should serve their guests, the condition of their homes, and even what they might wear.

Sargent says one of the goals of her 20-year-old company Allison Sargent Events is to infuse the gathering with the host’s personal style and interests. Parties, she says, should be “a reflection of your brand whether it is a product launch or just you and your girlfriends getting together.”

Allison Sargent, owner of Allison Sargent Events, a 20-year-old Montclair event planning company

There’s a lot of talk about the packaging and branding of people these days, and much of Sargent’s finesse is linked to image management for herself, her company and her events. For this story, which sought her tips on making the most of summer gatherings at home, Sargent requested interview topics in advance and consulted with her staff editor who advised her (as did this writer) against submitting essay-type responses that would be far less likely to capture her spirit.

When asked to share an instructive party-planning mishap, Sargent mentioned not a personal failing, but an act-of-God-type challenge in which she needed to do some climbing for a do-it-herself repair that stopped a torrent of rain from pouring into an outdoor tent. Lesson learned? Always bring another outfit to the party.

Sargent’s need for job-interview-like readiness has translated into international contracts, an impressive client list and her being named among top New Jersey businesswomen and event planners by NJBIZ, a state business magazine. Her eye for high-style was honed by her years working with color and fabrics as a fashion director for Lord & Taylor, where she also planned large-scale promotional events. But anyone who is planning a party at home would benefit from homing in on the solutions-oriented pluck that Sargent channels to her staff and vendors. An effective party planner’s greatest trait “is the overall ability to manage events and to keep a good attitude,” she says. “In the worst situation, I don't want anyone to see me freaking out.” The mantra in any crisis is “We're going to take care of this. We're all good, smart people and we're going to move ahead.”

Anyone who has been an at-home host knows the challenges can come in the form of dishes that don’t quite cook up according to schedule or drinks that don’t last through the party’s end or a major etiquette faux pas. So, how can one accomplish the goal of feeling like a guest at her own party?

The solution, Sargent says, is in entertaining at your comfort level and planning well. If you cook rather than hire a caterer, choose a winning dish with which you’ve previously had success. If you are not a disciple of Emily Post, perhaps the backyard barbecue would be a better option for entertaining your colleagues than a formal dinner. Summer is a great time for informal gatherings, Sargent says. “The clothing is more casual, the food is more casual.”

Allison Sargent EventsDecorative touches at the buffet are key for the host who appreciates impressive design.

And even while Sargent is passing on such potentially disheartening tidbits as: “When someone comes into your home, you are being measured very definitely by your home,” she advises simply making your place the best it can be. “You want to really think about organizing, not redesigning your house and spending thousands of dollars,” she says. “Do what you have to do to make it comfortable for you -- whatever that means. It’s different for everyone.”

The most important aspect of party planning is being a gracious host, she says. Her advice in that regard is to take the time to consider your guests’ needs in advance. Start planning early, and pay attention to the details that will translate into a memorable experience.

Here are some of Sargent’s tips for entertaining at home.

Getting started: After you’ve picked a date, the next step is establishing your budget based on the type of event and the number of people you will invite. “The more people you invite to anything, the more costly it will be,” notes Sargent. Also, determine the event’s significance. “If this is the most important thing you are doing all year, then put the money behind it.”

Guest list: Your list should include contact information for each person you plan to invite. “This will ease communication throughout your process,” Sargent says.

Invitations are the first impression of your party. A fun, casual invitation such as Bare Feet from Tiny Prints can be custom printed, but sets the tone for a relaxed gathering of friends.
Invitations: “Your invitation is the first impression. If you want to make a good one, your invitation is critical,” says Sargent. Decide whether the invitations should be casual or more elaborate based on the nature of your event. “If your invitation is elaborate, then the expectations are higher,” she said. Even if the invites are electronic, Sargent says it’s important to pay attention to the spelling of a guest’s name and punctuation. A general rule of thumb is to send invitations six to eight weeks in advance. For weddings and major events, a save-the-date notice can go out up to six months ahead.

Planning: Your plan is the key to everything. In addition to the guest list, there will be many other matters to manage including menus, housekeeping and purchases. Sargent suggests creating a folder with a copy of the invitation, the guest list, to-do lists, service estimates, receipts and other related documents. Keep it where it can easily be referenced by family members or others who might need to be tapped for assistance. Another tip: Plan to set your table five days prior. “When you prepare everything in advance, you know what you are missing and you can fill those things in,” she says.

Be camera ready: “Photography is the lasting imagery of this special event that you've worked really hard on.” says Sargent. She favors hiring a professional or designating a capable friend or family member to photograph events of all levels. “If it’s a 50th birthday party, let’s get it on film,” she says. “It's really nice to have a record of your own.”

Take-home gift: A parting gift will send guests off with a last positive memory of the party. Sargent suggests a home-baked treat packaged with a motif or colors that match the event.

Allison Sargent EventsNautical elements personalize the party of a host who enjoys sailing and socializing.

Put “you” in unique: Themes can be wonderful when the party planner needs direction, Sargent says. “But you don't want to get pigeonholed into having to use one.” For decorating, she advises “simple, creative and meaningful.” The unifying element – from the invitation to the décor – should be something significant to the host or guest of honor. If sailing is the passion, incorporate nautical elements.

Often, favorite colors can be enough to guide the selection of party materials, she says. Try to also incorporate something unexpected. “Everybody is so used to what they always see. The craziest, fun little element will be what people remember.”

What will you wear: In the frenzy of preparation, you will thank yourself if you plan your outfit in advance and have it hanging up and ready to slip on.

Additionally, Sargent advises factoring in enough time for the salon and professional grooming appointments. “When you feel good about how you look, you just feel better about the whole process.”

Furhter Links:

http://www.nj.com/homegarden/index.ssf/2011/06/summer_party_planning_tips_fro.html

2011-05-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

ASE hopes that everyone had a wonderful weekend! Although we wish this weather in NJ would stop- -enough with the rain and on with the sunshine please! So if you follow Allison Sargent Events on Twitter or Facebook (and if you do not then you should), then you might know that last week our ASE team ventured into the Big Apple for the 2011 National Stationary Show held at the Jacob Javits Center.

The National Stationary Show is in its 66th year and is the world’s most comprehensive collection of stationery and related lifestyle products, and stands alone as the only business event and tradeshow in the United States that focuses specifically on these profitable, powerful product categories. With over 900 exhibiting companies featuring more than 10,000 lines we had our day’s work of making sure we visited each booth cut out for us!

The products showcased in the National Stationery Show included greeting cards, invitations, imprintables, gift wrap/ribbons, stationery, specialty party supplies and paper tableware, bridal accessories, customized/personalized products, in-store printing equipment, decorative home office products, luxury leather goods, writing instruments, paper-crafting supplies, frames, journals, calendars, specialty giftware, scrapbooking and back-to-school.

ASE scowled each row from top to bottom and is reporting back to you now with our day’s top picks! ASE’s top picks for the day were first, the green eco-friendly paper cards booths which featured innovative recyclable paper products that were infused with seeds; so that after you received your green paper product- postcard, business card, hang tag, etc.- you could actually then grow the card!

Next, ASE just loved the fresh new “preppy patterns” that seemed to be a new common trend we noticed amongst the booths at the show. The deemed “preppy patterns” are similar to the recognizable Lily Pulitzer patterns of the girly pink, green, polka dots, and vintage motifs.

The last ASE pick of the day was almost one of our last stops, with our feet tingling from covering so much stationary show ground; we were instantly revived by the Paparte’s personalized gifts! Paperte is a new giftware line by Inscribe Inc., a chic line that features trendy patterns and bright colors, and like all Chic products, they can be personalized with any name or initial. They continued to impress us even more when they gave the whole ASE team a free chic sample mug of their new personalized giftware line!

The ASE team overall had a wonderful time and experience at the show and will definitely be back next year… Athlough, one tip we also found out and would share with all of our followers is, if you are going to cover a lot of or all of the ground ( which we did :) ) flats are not ideal for walking around for long periods of time because there is a lot, a lot to see! So, next year we will return in cute comfy sneakers!!

XOX ASE

A Special Event: ASE Enter's the Blogging World!

2011-05-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hello ASE Fans,

We hope that you are having an event-ful spring, filled with many special events of all kinds! We have now entered the blogging world to share with you, some of our event planning tips, cost saving strategies, do it yourself ideas, and of course a showcase of our most special events! Don't worry, we will help you tackle the art of gracious entertaining of all sizes and scopes, just sit back, relax and enjoy!

For those of you who are new to Allison Sargent Events, we are a full service custom event design and production firm, with the reputation and capability to put on one-of-a kind events, worldwide. Led by founder and president, Allison Sargent, ASE employs cutting edge creativity, dramatic style and a flair for the unexpected. From spectacular sales meetings to stylish weddings, to fabulous product unveilings and not-for-profit events, Allison Sargent Events offers exceptional expertise in capturing, creating and revealing your personal event vision.

For more infomation please visit www.allisonsargent.com and visit us on Facebook and Twitter!

Check back for weekly updates. Talk to you soon!
xoxo The ASE Team