Life is A Party – The Origin Story

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Keetra

stroke ribbonMay is Stroke Awareness Month.  This is a perfect time to tell the story of The Origin of Life is a Party, LLC.  So you are thinking, what does Stroke have to do with Life is a Party?  Read on…

In February 2010, I woke to a numbness on my left side.  I could not move my arm, or my leg.  I could not even sit up.  I was rushed to the hospital and the doctors informed I had suffered an ischemic (“is-skeem-ic”) stroke.   Ischemic stroke occurs when an artery to the brain is blocked.  I was very fortunate because my husband and family responded quickly.  I was in therapy for several months, learning how to walk and move again.  Everyday brought a new set of challenges. Can you imagine being totally independent one day and completely dependent the next day?  That was my life.  My daily prayer was to be able to recover so that I could become independent once again.

While in therapy, I had lots of time to think about my life.  I believed I had received a second chance, a new lease on life and I wanted to make it count.  For years, the one thing I loved and enjoyed was planning events and helping people celebrate.  It was then that Life is a Party was created.  At that moment, I decided to make my mission to help people celebrate life, one Event at a time.

Thank you for reading my story.  I know it is not about party or event planning, just wanted to highlight Stroke Awareness Month.

Destiny’s Child said it best…

I’m a Survivor.I’m a survivor
I’m not goin’ give up
I’m not goin’ stop
I’m goin’ work harder

I’m a survivor
I’m gonna make it
I will survive
Keep on surviving

Always Remember, Life truly is a Party,

Keetra

 

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Vendor Spotlight – Grand Rental Station

Posted on February 27, 2013 by Keetra

Spring is on its way which means Wedding Season has begun.  This month we wanted to spotlight a fabulous rental company to help out DIY Brides and other readers who are in need of rental equipment.   I worked with them on my own wedding and many, many other events. (translation – they totally ROCK).  site_grandrental_r1_c1

Today we are chatting with the VP of Customer Service, Matt Nadler at Grand Rental Station.

LIAP: Matt, thank you for taking time to give us the scoop on Grand Rental Station.  Let’s spring right to the questions.

LIAP: Tell us about Grand Rental Station.

GRS: A little about our business… We are Locally/Family owned and operated.  We started in 1994 as a Tool & Equipment rental company with a little bit of party.  Then around July of 2000 we sold all of our Tools & Equipment and transitioned into a complete Party Rental Company that could handle just about any type of event.   We are a full service Tent & Party Rental Company that can supply everything from the Tent to the Tableware for your next event.  Our largest event to date was a Boeing’s Company picnic for approximately 80,000 of their closest friends & coworkers.

photo courtesy Grand Rental Station

photo courtesy Grand Rental Station

LIAP: What sets your company apart from others in the industry?

GRS: Our mission is to be the Absolute Best Party Rental Company in the St Louis Metro Area.  With that said we clean & Inspect each chair between rentals, refinish our tables once a year and repair them as needed, Clean and inspect our tent tops between rentals and we polish and inspect each and every Plate, Glass, piece of Flatware, etc before it gets put back in stock.   We also double and triple check orders throughout the order & delivery process to guarantee accuracy.  We also do things different than our competitors in that we use ware washing racks to store and ship our Tableware which helps ensure accurate quantities, prevent damage and they also give us the piece of mind that our racks are as sanitized as the contents they hold.    Basically, we do everything possible to make sure our customer’s events look “GRAND”.

LIAP: Where are you all located and in what areas do you make deliveries?

GRS: We are located in Fenton, MO.

GRS: Our standard delivery area is generally a 50 mile radius of Fenton, MO.   Including but not limited to the following areas; Saint Louis Metropolitan Area, St Charles, Franklin, & Jefferson Counties.

LIAP:  What do you love most about what you do?

GRS: Everyday is different.   There are so many aspects to this business that it is never boring.  You just never know what type of events are waiting for you around the next corner?

LIAP: I second that emotion, Matt.

LIAP: Would you like to give us a little known fact about your Business?

GRS: When we opened the business in 1994 as more of a tool rental company and we were actually forced (well, pushed really hard) by our mentor to put some party rentals (which by the way we new little to nothing about) in our inventory; so we added about 100 chairs, 20 tables & 100 place settings of china to make him happy.   Now after 18 years we have grown to approx. 8000 chairs, 1000 tables, 3000 place settings of china, and the lists go on.

LIAP: Matt, How may we get in touch with you and your GRAND Company?

GRS: Phone: 636-343-PARTY (7278), Fax: 636-343-6655, Email: info@grandrental-stl.com, Website: www.grandrental-stl.com, Twitter: grandrental,  Facebook: grandrental,
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-rental-station Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/grandrental

LIAP: Matt, thanks again for your time and for being truly candid.  I look forward to our next EVENTure. (fun play on words)

Until Next Time,

Always Remember, Life truly is a Party,

Keetra

 

Posted in Birthday, Bling, Bride, Bridesmaid, DIY, Event, Holiday, Kids, Mother of the bride, Party, Rental, Saint Louis, Spotlight, Uncategorized, Vendor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Top 5 Sizzling Honeymoon Destinations for 2013

Posted on February 25, 2013 by Keetra

Kudos to all the newly engaged couples.  One exciting aspect of planning a Wedding is the arranging the after party for two.

MP900289132The Honeymoon.  So, what are the Hottest Honeymoon Destinations for 2013?  Some are near and some are far. Some are tropical while others are adventurous.

Photo Courtesy http://www.likulikulagoon.com

Photo Courtesy www.likulikulagoon.com

1. Fiji – Likuliku Lagoon Resort is a haven of subtle luxury and the first and only resort in Fiji with over-water bures.   It is a unique and special place designed with integrity to cultural values, traditional designs and architecture, and is embraced by the renowned warmth of the Fijian people.

 Photo Courtesy www.jademountain.com

Photo Courtesy www.jademountain.com

2. St. Lucia – Jade Mountain is St. Lucia’s only resort property with the iconic view of both the Piti and Gros Piton mountains floating upon the Caribbean Sea. The location of the property is unsurpassed, rising majestically above the private estate of ANSE CHASTANET with 600 lush tropical acres bordering two soft, sand Caribbean beaches with pristine coral reefs just off shore.

Photo Courtesy www.waikoloabeachresort.com

Photo Courtesy www.waikoloabeachresort.com

3. Hawaii – The Big Island - Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is set within walking distance to Big Island shopping centers, dining, beach and ocean activities and historic trails and petroglyphs.  The 15-acre Hawaii hotel property by the ocean features upscale guestrooms, delicious indoor-outdoor Hawaii Calls restaurant and a spectacular Sunset Lū‘au.

Photo Courtesy www.bluepalace.gr

Photo Courtesy www.bluepalace.gr

4. Crete, Greece – Blue Palace Nestled on the famed coast of Elounda on the island of Crete, our luxury beachfront resort offers emblematic views to the relics of Spinalonga Island. A luxury resort in Greece with exceptional charm, architecture and style, Blue Palace Resort & Spa is the perfect hideaway to combine authentic island luxe accommodations, the finest award winning cuisine and a soothing retreat for the senses. We invite you to discover an enchanting island in Greece.

Photo Courtesy www.castellodelnero.com

Photo Courtesy www.castellodelnero.com

5. Florence, Italy - Castello del Nero is a 12th century castle, restructured and opened as a 5 star deluxe hotel in June 2006. The property comprises an estate of 400 hectares of private game reserve with various kilometers of internal roads and trails ideal for horse riding, biking and trekking.

These places are so fabulous, me and my husband may have to  plan a second honeymoon. (third, fourth, fifth, etc… Honeymoon, not husbands.  Haa haa)

Until Next Time,

Always Remember, Life Truly is a Party,

Keetra

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Happy Chinese New Year

Posted on February 8, 2013 by Keetra

Chinese New Year Wall DecorThis year Chinese New Year begins on Sunday, February 10, 2013. 2013 is the Year of the Snake. Chinese New Year is the biggest event in Chinese world. The Chinese New Year Eve is the day of family reunion. Just like in the United States they stay awake until hearing the sound of firecrackers to welcome the  New Year. To start the celebrations on New Years Day, people like to greet with  Gong Xi Fa Chai , which means “congratulations and make a fortune.”  The Chinese New Year festivities officially last for 15 days, culminating in Chap Goh Mei – meaning the 15th night which is celebrated with a family meal, music, and decorations, similar to the reunion dinner.

Can you imagine celebrating for 15 days?  Well they keep the party going.  All fifteen days have meaning.  Check it out.  Big shout out to ChineseNewYearDay.com and About.com for the info.

Day 2 is the Son-in-Law Day. Married women return their mothers homes on this day. Day 3 is Mice Wedding Day. Day 4 is Welcome Home Day to the God of the Stove. Day 5  is Welcome God of Wealth Day. Lots of business stores like to reopen on this day. Day 6 is  Clear-Water Master Day. Day 7 is The Human Day. Day 8 is The Completion Day. Day 9 is the Birthday of Jade Emperor, King of Heaven. Day 10 is The Eating Day. Day 11 is The Break Day. Day 12 is The Cleanse Day. Day 13 is The Death Anniversary of Kuan Yu. Day 14 is The Lantern Decoration Day a day of rest to gear up for the final day .  Day 15 is The Lantern Festival. This spectacular display of creativity and lights ends 15 days of fun and celebration.  Many equate this day to our Valentine’s Day.  How fun is that?

By the way, a big thank you to whomever invented paper lanterns.  I love including them in my events in all their shapes and sizes.

Until Next Time.

Always Remember, Life Truly Is A Party.

Keetra

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Awesome Asian Tablescape

Posted on February 7, 2013 by Keetra
misha cuisine red asian theme tablescape

Photo Courtesy MishaCuisine.com

It is almost Chinese New Year.  I thought it would be fun to highlight an Asian Themed Table Design.  One website in particular offered a variety of bountiful beauties.  Enter Misha Cuisine Personal Chef and Catering Services out of San Diego, California.  I love the use of red and black.  Red, in Chinese Culture, symbolizes good fortune and joy.  I know this tablescape brings me instant joy.

Check out their Table Designs as well as their food designs.  Here’s a picture of my favorite. (mmm, mouth-watering)

cobb salad

Photo Courtesy MishaCuisine.com

Thank you Misha Cuisine for showing us some Asian Flair.

Until Next Time.

Always Remember, Life truly is a Party,

Keetra
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DIY V Day Gift – For The Kids – Love Bug Valentines

Posted on January 28, 2013 by Keetra

Hello to You.  Quick test for you.   Are you like me, do you have a school-aged child?  Are you like me, scrambling every holiday to do something different for our child’s classmates? Are you like me, not wanting to purchase a generic, store bought box of Valentine Cards?  Well…here is a Valentine DIY that will crawl right into your heart.

 

Photo Courtesy Dandee Designs 

Danyelle of Dandee Designs has created the cutest little Love Bugs I have ever seen.  She gives us all the instructions to make these cards that will be all the BUZZ.

Have Fun!

Until Next Time.

Always Remember. Life truly is a Party,

Keetra

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DIY Valentine’s Day Gift – DIY Kindle Case

Posted on January 25, 2013 by Keetra

Here is a DIY Valentine Gift idea I stumbled upon for my Eco-Friendly Pals.

Photo Courtesy of Craftingagreenworld.com

Becky Striepe and Crafting A Green World came up with this amazing case the takes about one hour to complete.  To get the step by step instructions, look it up here at Crafting A Green World.

Honestly, with some size tweaking, you could make this into a cell phone, iPad or any other device case.  With different fabric colors, the possibilities are endless.  Thank you Becky & Crafting A Green World Team. Enjoy.

Until Next Time.

Always Remember, Life truly is a Party,

Keetra

Posted in Birthday, Bride, Bridesmaid, DIY, Event, Gifts, Holiday, Jewelry, Mother of the bride, Party, Uncategorized, Valentine | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Bridesmaids Dresses We Love

Posted on January 23, 2013 by Keetra
Posted in Bride, Bridesmaid, Event, Fashion, Mother of the bride, Party, Photo Shoot, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

DIY Valentine’s Day Gift – Deck of Love Cards

Posted on January 22, 2013 by Keetra

 

Photo Courtesy PaperVinenz.com 

 

Are you looking for a unique, personalized, Do-It-Yourself Valentine for that special someone in your life?  In this overly commercialized, right off the assembly-line society we live in, DIY gifts made with individuals in mind are making a splash.

Enter Lowri McNabb, the owner of PaperVine, a website packed with great papercrafting ideas and tutorials.  I immediately fell in love with 52 Reasons I Love You.

Lowri offers a full step by step tutorial on her site. You can download the template as well as shop for supplies.  Thanks Lowri for sharing your awesome DIY ideas.  You Rock.

Make this a Valentine’s Day one your Sweetie will not forget for years to come.

Until Next Time.

Always Remember, Life truly is a Party.

Keetra

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LIAP Vendor Spotlight – Stella & Dot

Posted on January 17, 2013 by Keetra

Hello there.  One of our posts will be Special Events Vendor Spotlights. These vendors will vary from local to International.  Do you have a Special Events Vendor you want to hear more about, email us.

Stella & Dot

We are shining the spotlight on Stella & Dot with Independent Stylist, Tameka Green.

LIAP:  Hi Tameka.  Thank you for agreeing to be in our Vendor Spotlight.  Let’s get to it, shall we?

LIAP: Tell us a little bit about Stella & Dot:

S&D:  Stella & Dot offers affordable hand finished boutique-style jewelry, perfect for every day and special occasion accessorizing. Our NEW Spring Collection is full of amazingly versatile pieces at prices that make it affordable for everyone. Half of our AFFORDABLE LUXURY line is UNDER $50! Our Company was founded in 2007, and reached over $100 million in sales by 2010.

LIAP: What sets your company apart from others in the industry?

S&D: Our Trunk Shows allow you and your guests to have a personalized shopping experience in the comfort of your own home. Getting married? Stella & Dot is a PERFECT opportunity for the bride-to-be to get FREE JEWELRY! Classic pearls to vintage, retro to bold, chains to charms – we have it all!!

Pegasus Necklace Photo courtesy Stella & Dot

LIAP: Tameka, how can we contact you to set up a Trunk Show or purchase some of your fabulous Celebrity Style?

S&D:  My website is www.stelladot.com/tameka.  By phone 314.608.3450.  Tweet me @TMLGShopper, or Facebook www.facebook.com/tamekasjewelrybox, Follow me on Instagram – tamekagreen75

LIAP: In what areas do you work?

S&D: I host Trunk Shows within a 100 mile radius of St. Louis, MO.

LIAP: Do you have any current specials or new items you want to highlight?

S&D: Just visit my website, www.stelladot.com/tameka, and open an account to receive our monthly Trunk Show Exclusives via e-mail. And be sure to check the Sale section for discounted covet-worthy pieces!!

LIAP: What do you love about what you do?

S&D: I love that I am able to help women look beautiful and feel confident when they leave the house. You can be wearing jeans and a tee, but add a statement necklace and now you have an outfit!! Our jewelry is made of quality materials that will withstand everyday wear. One of my favorite pieces is the Pegasus Necklace. Each bronze feather is hand sewn onto the silk base and it looks just as stunning with a cocktail dress as it does with a blazer and jeans.

LIAP: What is fun fact or little known fact about your Business?

S&D: Our CEO and Founder, Jessica Herrin, founded www.weddingchannel.com as a graduate school project and sold it a year later for $25 million!! She is a true entrepreneur and wants to give women around the world the opportunity to live bold and joyful lives.

There you have it.  Ms. Tameka with Stella & Dot are bringing Celebrity Style to North County St. Louis and Beyond.  Thank you very much Tameka.  For a fashion DIVA’s like myself, new styles and fashion are only a click away.

Until Next Time,

Always Remember, Life truly is a Party,

Keetra

Posted in Birthday, Bling, Bride, Bridesmaid, Celebrity, Event, Fashion, Gifts, Holiday, Jewelry, Mother of the bride, Saint Louis, Spotlight, Vendor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment