Our House, in the Middle of Our Street..

Let's start off with an apology for the lack of blogging done in the past few weeks, we're sorry!

Now that that is out of the way, we bring you our Feature Guest: Jamie McGinty.

We know as well as you do the costs associated with weddings, and often along with the wedding planning comes life planning as well.

A new home together is very often the second big budget item on a newlyweds list, and it can be overwhelming, time consuming and EXPENSIVE to find your 'love nest'.

Jamie is a sales rep with Royal LePage Complete Realty in Alliston, ON.
A knowledgeable and friendly guy, he is able to assist you with every aspect of real estate.

Jamie has sent some tips along to help you through your journey in house hunting.

We will feature Jamie again in a few months with more tips and tricks for everyone, and thank him for being a part (and amazing resource) of The Wedding Belles blog!

To reach Jamie, you can visit his website at: www.jamiemcginty.com

Or by phone at: Office: 705-435-3000 or on his cell: 705-440-9440

Thanks so much Jamie!

Now back to our regularly scheduled programming!

We'll frolic and play, the Eskimo way...

ok, so show of hands, who's getting sick of winter?

It has been cold, snowy, and grey for a few too many months now.

And it's that odd time between holidays and spring where everyone is in hibernation mode.

All the more reason to throw a party! Get your friends off the couch and let's have some fun!

A creative theme is a wonderful addition to a party at this time of year because it sets your party apart. Theme parties can help keep you organized by linking the food, decor and music to one place and tells your guests what to expect, what to bring and what to wear.

Here are some tips for hosting your very own indoor beach party:

Write a list! Include # of guests, budget and any ideas you have or want incorporated. Try and engage all the 5 senses. Sights, tastes, smells, sounds and touch, they make your party something to remember and engage your guests at the same time.

Invitations can be anything with a beach feel. Post cards with star fish, sand, sun, waves - you can even send invites in a bottle!

Get your guests in beach mode by having everyone wear board shorts, t-shirts and flip flops. (Make room for them to change once they arrive, bear in mind, parkas will be worn to get to you!)

Decorate your tables with tropical fruit, sea shells, flowers (birds of paradise, hibiscus etc.), palm fronds etc.

There are so many great ideas at the Dollar Store, so not only can your party look beachy, it doesn't have to cost you a fortune!

Your menu can include jerk chicken, coconut ice cream, tonnes of fruit! And don't forget tropical drinks! (Both alcoholic and non) Beer, mojitos, daiquiri's, margaritas, anything cool and refreshing works!

Play music or rent music videos that incorporate reggae, calypso, soca etc. Keep them on in the background, never louder than a conversation. Your guests should be able to enjoy the lively sound without having to scream over it.

You can do ANYTHING your heart desires with a theme party.

At this time of year, a beach party is almost as good as the real beach, not to mention it's a lot less expensive and everyone can be there!

ENJOY!