From: "Laura Nichols" <balloons@party.jcubed.com>
To: "deco list" <balloondeco@balloonhq.com>
Subject: Coming out of the closet
Date: Mon, 12 Jun 2000 11:18:04 -0400

Hello List!

I'm coming out of the lurkers' closet, it is just too dark in there :)

This past weekend was our 1st major wedding and although we had some
unexpected developments, it was beautiful.  The 90 degree heat was an added
challenge, but we handled it well.  We built 2 sets of 2 six foot columns
with an SOP connecting them for the 2 different entrances for the church.
We had helium balloons on a cup/stick (Dancers I believe they are called)
milling around in the giant foyer where the 2 gift tables were placed.  We
designed a waterfall out of glass blocks and river rock, and placed it in
between the 2 gift tables.  Each gift table also had a balloon bouquet on it
as well.  We had a small balloon topiary on the guest book table.  Wish I
had a dollar for every person that asked how we made that!

The reception hall was done "to the 9s".  Each table had a double runner
that we cut out of plastic tablecloths (purple & lilac) using a wavy blade
on a rotary cutter.  We had 7 more tables than expected, so 3 of the ones in
the very back went without runners.  Because of the bride's budget, we had
planned 2 different centerpieces to alternate between tables.  One used a
16" round mirror with 3 wine goblets filled with glass marbles and
tealights.  In between the goblets on the mirror we put a 3" lilac balloon
on top of the stems for 3 white roses laying on the mirror and purple heart
confetti sprinkled.  The other tables had 2 ivy bowls with tealights/marbles
and lilac rosettes in the marbles, and confetti down the entire runner.
After the tables were completely set with both colors of plates, napkins,
tumblers, and forks the room just screamed!  We then had another snag with
the SOPs that were planned to go around the center columns, but we overcame
that by creating 5 balloon bouquets and taped them on the outside walls at
table height with a gossamer bow and long tails to the floor.  The bride &
groom had a small stage to sit on with throne-like chairs and a small table.
The stage was swagged with gossamer and white lights with lilac ribbon and
gossamer at the points all the way to the floor.

 I have never imagined working so hard AND having so much fun at the same
time in my life!!!  Thanks to this list and THE GUIDE at BalloonHQ, I have
found something that turns the wheels in my head and lets my creativity
flow.  I spent many hours researching the guide, watching the videos, and
planning.  It turned out as fabulous as I had planned...but my socks are off
to YOU!!!!

And now for my question... What percentage extra should I allow for (as far
as extra tables/centerpieces, etc.) from now on?  I met the bride at the
location prior to the event, but the janitor set up extra tables, and left
instructions not to move any of them.  From the last few days on the list I
can see this is a common dilemma, common enough to plan for?  I don't like
getting caught without an extra pair of socks!

Laura Nichols
3s-a-Party!
Balloon Design and Party Decor
We Decorate so You Can Celebrate!
http://party.jcubed.com