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Wedding & Event Planners

March 31, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

All of the stresses and anxiety of party planning can be put to rest with the right event coordinating intelligentsia by your side. Getting ready to start planning a big bash?  We are here to help!  We’ve  put together a list of our favorite wedding and event planners in the city.  So go ahead, drop those streamers, put down the clip board, take a deep breath and leave it to the experts.

Lilly White Events
Lilly White Events is a chic event boutique specializing in corporate, private, and non-profit event planning and consulting. The brands have earned a reputation for producing stylish holiday events, trunk shows, fund-raisers, bridal events, launches, grand openings, and parties.  Lilly White Events continues to strengthen the brand by pushing the traditional event-planning envelope with unique design, production, catering, and service techniques.

Posh Tots Events
Planning parties for your little ones can be just as much work as adult parties!  Enter Posh Tots Events.  The vision of featured entrepreness Jennifer Shields, Posh Tots creates amazing and memorable parties for children AND moms to enjoy.  Featuring popular themes such as Pamper Me, Posh Spa Parties, and Princess Tea Parties, you will be sure to give your kids a party they will never forget!

The Starfire Group
The Starfire Group is a creative powerhouse that specializes in event production, marketing, and public relations. Started by I’na Saulsbery, who began planning events when she was only 16, the Starfire Group has become known for its creative concepts and “wow-factor” results. I’na is a force to be reckoned with and has transcended herself into a bona fide trendsetting star! Over ten years experience in event marketing and event planning fueled her energy to create her very successful company.

Ashley Baber Weddings
Ashley Baber Weddings brings  a fresh and modern approach to designing, planning, and coordinating weddings, which has earned Ashley and her team a reputation for excellence and beyond.  The day that Ashley Baber got married her life changed forever.  She fell in love with creativity, accomplishment and the joy associated with planning her first wedding.  Six year later she continues to plan weddings, each with the same passion with which she planned her own. Ashley draws on her extensive experience in corporate event planning, event sales, and the bridal retail market to ensure that every facet of your wedding-planning process runs smoothly and that your day will be perfect!

The Event Salon
CRAVE-ing some event-style pampering?  The Event Salon is a full-service event management company providing a wide range of creative solutions to meet all of your event needs. They specialize in the planning, management, and execution of corporate and social events. They are not a day spa or hair salon; however, they operate under the same spirit of personalized attention and individualized customer service that enhancing their clients experiences, bringing your planning worries to ease.

Add More ~ing To Your Life

March 29, 2010 by Sarah Clise | Comments (0)

In her debut book, Add More ~ing To Your Life, motivational speaker and life coach Gabrielle Bernstein takes readers on a fun and fulfilling journey to happiness in 30 days. She promotes writing, meditation, and movement as ways to combat ego and release romantic illusions. For every goal in her book, she lays out an Equation with multiple steps packed with reflection and perspective. Some of her unique blues-blasting concepts include compiling a Compassion List, creating a Personal-Shift Statement, and ceasing to Future Trip. By the end of the book she’s created an arsenal of happiness-promoting exercises to conquer negative thinking and create personal change. Read on to learn more about this gifted guru and what she craves.

What is your motto, slogan, or theme song?
Expect Miracles

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
The best advice I was ever given was from my mother when she told me that meditation would guide me to serenity.

In a past life you were…
A preacher in South America.

How do you get ready to write?
I clean my desk. Then I meditate. Following my meditation I write an outline. I’m a mess without an outline. I turn off my phone and I unplug the Internet. Then I start writing.

What’s a place that inspires you and why?
The place where I’m most inspired is in Abadiania Brazil. I travel to Abadiania, the home of psychic surgeon and spiritual healer John of God. When I am in Brazil with John of God and his team of mediums I feel my strongest sense of inspiration.

What makes you feel most CRAVE – able?
My authenticity. What you see is what you get.

What’s a cause you are passionate about and why?
I feel deeply connected to helping people overcome addiction and more specifically the issue of teenage suicide due to prescription drugs. I am a recovering drug addict and I am very transparent about my sobriety in order to help others recover. I plan to write a book on overcoming addiction in all areas of life.

What makes you laugh so hard you cry?
So many things. I don’t know where to begin…

In 10 years you want to be…
In 10 years I plan to be known as the messenger for happiness for the next generation. I will have a television show and several published books. I will be a mother and dwell in New York City and in a warm weather climate.

Describe yourself in 5 words.
I am spirited, loquacious, alive, connected, love

* This publication was sent to the CRAVEcompany for review

We’re CRAVE-ing Authentic Beauty

March 29, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

Authentic Beauty, owned by featured entrepreness Alyson Hoag, provides women with the knowledge and skills to create an image that reflects their Authentic Self.  Authentic Beauty offers makeup lessons, Champagne and Shadows, teen lessons, bridal services, brows and more.

We’re lucky to have Alyson as a spaker at our next CRAVE Chat:  Secrets of Celebrity Entreprenesses! onMonday, March 29th at 7:00 PM at Urban Cottage. Click HERE to read more about the event and to register.

Here’s a taste of what you’ll learn from the fabulous Ms. Hoag!

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
genuine, vibrant, inspiring

What are your most popular products or services?
The Image Journey is a self discovery makeup lesson. Rather than tell a woman what she “should” look like, we believe a woman’s image should be a reflection of her authentic self. She will bring in all her makeup, and we design looks based on her unique style. She will leave with a look that’s truly her own and learn everything she needs to, in order to recreate it.

People may be surprised to know…
I have a sociology degree, I was a personal trainer for 12 years and loved racing my bicycle.

What or who inspired you to start your business?
Two things: One, I saw the Dove Real Beauty Campaign video Evolution and knew someone had to start a makeup company that was about truth in beauty. Two, I took a personal growth course which basically made me realize I was playing REALLY small in my life

How do you spend your free time?
What free time? As much as I possibly can with my family. I have a 14 year-old daughter and 16 year-old son, and my husband is my best friend.

What is your indulgence?
Really good Dark Rum

Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?
My studio!

Fashion Sense is a Relative Term

March 24, 2010 by Lynn Edwards | Comments (1)

In honor of the recent Fashion Week hoopla, I thought I’d share my fashion “sense” and I use that term quite loosely. For those of you that have read the CRAVE Crack Up blogs, you’ve quickly come to learn I am “challenged” in many areas of my life that include domestically, home interiorally, culinarily, and more. Fashion is no exception….I have narrowly escaped being featured in the black-boxed face photo in many a fashion magazine.

Every Spring I am inspired to clean out the closet, buy some colorful shoes and skip around looking cute. I pledge to wear a pretty floral print dress just because they look so dang fun on the TV ads but then realize I would actually have to shave my legs.

I adore all the fabulous sunglasses but find myself still sporting the $3.99 pair I bought at the Ritzville AM/PM after a long night. I vowed to never buy expensive eyewear because I was sure I’d lose or break them…these signature shades I picked up near the corn dogs have lasted me five years, naturally!

Each April I travel to Las Vegas for some much needed girl fun. One year I committed myself to having the right “Vegas” shoes, so I splurged. I found just the right pair of smoking hot black strappy pumps. When I got there, I made it from my room to the elevator in the hotel before I had to return to the room for my flip flops. They looked super cute in the pre-func party pics though.

A southern friend once sent me a Spring purse set. By “set” I mean that it looked like one of those Christmas dolls that you open and find 15 more mini-Christmas dolls inside, only this had a matching wallet, sunglass case, etc., it had a million pieces. I had no idea what to do with all of them but they sure were cute. Don’t be surprised that I don’t have a purse “set”…I just recently realized you should have more than one bag for different seasons.

Speaking of seasons, when I lived in the south I was outcast due to my major faux pas of wearing white heels before Easter. Silly me, it had been 80 degrees since New Year’s Eve so I figured white shoes with my cute floral skirt would work. The fashion police literally showed up and locked me in a dressing room at Dillard’s until Easter for that high crime.

You might say I am a “function over form” kind of gal. I am all about comfort and all my jeans have to do is at least accommodate my cell phone and lip gloss.

I do love coats, it’s a strange addiction but I must have a hundred in my closet. Ok, 50% are fleece, but I do dig the outer layer action. Funny thing is I am always so warm, I rarely wear them, not just because most of them would look ridiculous with my floral dress but also because I don’t want to be bothered with carrying one around. I would probably leave it in some coat check somewhere and lose it….like my $3.99 expensive eyewear.

Here’s to putting on a pretty floral dress and skipping around looking cute this Spring!

We’re CRAVE-ing Bella Cucina

March 23, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (1)

Do It Yourself Design Inspirations We CRAVE

March 22, 2010 by Lilla | Comments (0)

Spring is finally just around the corner. We are gearing up to do all our regular spring cleaning tasks – flip mattresses, wash curtains, and finally organize our junk drawers. One of the highlights of spring is rebirth and getting a new lease on life . Well, how about doing the same for your home or an old piece of furniture? Small changes are sure to make a large difference in any home! We love to turn to designspongeonline.com for inspiration and really love the before & after posts. Check out some of our favorite makeovers:

• From gloomy kitchen to apple green colored charmer
• From boring and granny-like rocking chair to modern rockin’ chic
• From an apartment that belongs in a Golden Girls flashback to a place that Carrie Bradshaw can call home!

Do you have any home DIYs plans for spring?

Hots Spots for Detox

March 17, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

When you’re busy managing a business while juggling relationships and other responsibilities, finding inner peace can be a challenge.  That’s why we’ve put together a list of great places in and around Atlanta that will leave you feeling peaceful, detoxed and refreshed in no time.  Go ahead.  Indulge, relax, breathe. You’ve earned it!

Urban Body Studios
Next door to the popular Urban Body Fitness, sister company Urban Body Studios features multiple Yoga and Pilates group classrooms and one-on-one facilities, with classes for novices and advanced practioners alike.  Once you’ve detoxed with a yoga or Pilates session, head over to the Spa and Salon, located in the same building, for that massage or facial you’ve been CRAVE-ing!

Spa at Chateau Elan
If you’re willing to venture out a bit, the Spa at Chateau Elan is the perfect spot for a mini getaway with your best girlfriends!  Tour the wineries, then indulge in a massage, facial, mani-pedi and other amazing services that will instantly relax and rejuvinate you.  Spa Overnight Packages feature complimentary access to Spa Facilities: spa whirlpool, dry sauna, wet eucalyptus steam, indoor swimming pool with resistance jets and fitness classes.

Kashi Atlanta
Since it’s inception over 10 years ago, this urban ashram’s mission has been one of education, service and healing–perfect for any harried entreprenesses!  From yoga and meditation classes to workshops on healthy eating, spirituality and other wellness issues, Kashi Atlanta is a welcome escape from the chaos that is Atlanta.  Even better, it’s only $14 to drop in on a class, the perfect mid-day, intown escape!

JeJu Sauna
For extreme relaxation and renewal step into the soothing JeJu Sauna.  Located in Duluth, this Korean spa offers saunas, body scrubs, massages, cleansing rooms and much more.  Even better?  The kids are welcome, so make it an outing for your whole family.  After your healthy and relaxing treatments, stay for a meal at their authentic Korean restaurant.

So go ahead, pamper, relax, breathe deeply and find that inner peace you’ve been CRAVE-ing.

CRAVE up your St. Patrick’s Day

March 16, 2010 by Jade S. | Comments (0)

St. Patrick’s Day is tomorrow and whether you are of Irish heritage or not, it is a great excuse to dress up in green, drink Guinness and eat corned beef and cabbage. In case the traditional Irish feast isn’t your thing we have come up with a few cool ways that you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with your girlfriends. So grab your green, your “Kiss Me I’m Irish” sticker and a few gal pals and celebrate with us! Erin Go Bragh!

Coordinate a cocktail party with you gal pals using this fabulous party guide from Girlfriend Celebrations. Get cocktail creative with green drinks that aren’t beer. Pair these with fabulous green snacks and appetizers. Finish off the Irish ambiance by playing Celtic music in the background. As a fun party activity everyone can plant individual clovers and each guest can take home a pot to remind them of their fabulous friends.

Not into food and games? Coordinate a gift exchange with girlfriends and require that everyone purchase something that is authentically Irish. Set a spending limit so everyone gets something fun.

This year the holiday is celebrated on a Wednesday so if you aren’t in to going out and partying hard consider spending a night in watching movies. Use food coloring to dye your popcorn green and pop in a Irish “chick-flick” like PS I Love You, Tristan and Isolde , or Leap Year. All St. Patrick’s Day rules still apply so make sure your PJ’s are green!

If you want to go all out and spend the night on the town check out this fabulous St. Patrick’s Day event guide and find out what fun St. Patty’s festivities are happening in your area.

We wish you the “luck o’ the Irish” this year as you celebrate with friends. And no matter where or how you celebrate remember the old Irish adage “Before you call for one for the road be sure you know the road.” SlĂ inte

A Peek at Posh Tots Events

March 13, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

Posh Tots Events, owned by featured entrepreness Jennifer Shields, is Atlanta’s premiere full-service event-planning company specializing in unique theme parties for children and mommies-to-be.  Whether your little one wants to be posh and pampered or party like a princess, Posh Tots will ensure that your next event is unforgettable.

Jennifer recently worked with Bert’s Big Adventure, a non-profit organization founded by local radio personality Bert Weiss that provides a five day journey to Walt Disney World® for children with a chronic and/or terminal illness and their families, on its send-off party.  We thought it would be a great time to highlight this savvy evangelista of all things posh.

What are your most popular products and services?
Our most popular themes are the Pamper Me Posh Spa Parties and our Princess Tea Parties.

What or who inspired you to start your business?
Planning my son Austin’s “All Star Baseball” themed birthday was the original inspiration for Posh Tots Events.

What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?
Winning the client at all costs. Sometimes it just makes sense to say no.

How do you spend your free time?
What little free time I do have I like to spend with my husband, Tim, checking out new restaurants or exploring Atlanta with our two munchkins.

Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?
I love Red Sky in Marietta. They have a great bar and make a fabulous pomegranate martini.

Happy Hour Hotspots!

March 12, 2010 by Laura Scholz | Comments (0)

CRAVE-ing cocktails and time with you best girlfriends? We’ve come up with a list of the best spots in the city to meet up with your girlfriends and unwind after a long day of being fabulous. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lounge for great conversation or an ultra chic hotspot, these places are the perfect spot for your next girl gathering!

The Albert
918 Austin Ave  404.872.4990
Looking for a warm and cozy escape? Inman Park’s, The Albert, is one of the neighborhoods most loved restaurant bars. The warm and welcoming interior sets the perfect scene for relaxing girl talk. Featuring Southern BBQ, handcrafted sandwiches, and great drink specials, families and singles mingle in a warm atmosphere that makes this a crowded, fun hotspot.  CRAVE-ing more than just cocktails? Join The Albert March 8-14 for Inman Park Restaurant Week!

Noche
1000 Virginia Ave NE  404.815.9155
Lodged in what has become Atlanta’s trendiest neighborhood, Noche holds a firm grip on the Virginia Highland drink ‘n’ mingle crowd. Margaritas, tapas and plenty of eye candy make for a great chit-chatty atmosphere. Head over on Monday for $10 all you can eat Tapas! Want a little extra girl time? Hit the boutiques on Highland Avenue for a little pre-party shopping to kick off the perfect girls’ night.

MF Buckhead
265 Ponce De Leon Ave NE  404.815.8844
If you’re in the mood for a luxe swanky cocktail head to this new hotspot. Located on the ground floor of the Terminus building, MF Buckhead is the perfect spot for the ultimate happy hour escape.  MF Buckhead not only has some of the most elegant sushi and Japanese in the city, but the interior is a flashy showstopper that makes you feel cool the moment you walk in the door. Get glammed up, grab your girls and indulge!

The Grape- Phipps Plaza
3500 Peachtree Road  678.990.WINE (9463)
This Atlanta location is our favorite for its comfortable, relaxing atmosphere and plush decor. The Grape is the perfect place to come with your best friends to just relax and unwind over a great bottle of vino. Overlooking busy Peachtree Road, this bubbly wine vault and bar is the getaway you and your girlfriends have been CRAVE-ing.

Loca Luna
550 Amsterdam Ave NE  404.875.4494
Since the weather is starting to warm up, head on over to Loca Luna for some festive Latin flair. Loca Luna is one of the best outdoor bars in Atlanta with a perfect view of the Midtown skyline. When planning your happy hour girls night here, make sure to do it on Wednesday-Sunday from 5-7PM to get 1/2 off on all tapas! CRAVE-ing even more Latin fun? Stick around until 7PM on Wednesdays for Ladies Night and indulge in some FREE salsa lessons!

Tap
Whether its just wine with girlfriends or beers with a big group, Tap is the perfect place to pull up a seat and have a drink. An oval-shaped bar floats in the middle of the ground floor with seating all around to frame the fact that at TAP, the drink is king.  Located in the heart of midtown on busy Peachtree St., creative southern munchies like fried pickles, deviled eggs and Georgia boiled peanuts pair well with $2 shorties of draught making Tap the perfect happy hour hotspot!

Tin Lizzy’s
If you’re CRAVE-ing margaritas for happy hour, Tin Lizzy’s is your place! With a $4 house margarita and fun ambiance and atmosphere, it just can’t be beat. Tin Lizzy’s currently has locations in Buckhead and Grant Park with another one coming soon in Midtown. Atlanta just can’t get enough of their creatively extensive margarita and taco menu! Their queso with seasoned chips is also delicious–a must try!

JCT Kitchen
“ J.C.T.” — three simple letters now become a place where family and friends join together for an experience of  “Southern Farmstead Cooking.”  Located in the trendy Westside Urban Market of Atlanta’s new neighborhood cool spot, JCT Bar, has welcoming, low-key rooftop environment perfect for relaxing with girlfriends or entertaining friends. An extensive selection of cool refreshers, a delicious small Southern plates menu, enjoyable live music and comfortable lounge areas make JCT Bar the place to be!

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