The Worst Kind of Events

Over the past week, I've lost a 26 year-old friend and a 76 year-old grandfather, who both suffered from different kinds and levels of addiction. My friend's brother, Brian, was at the height of his addiction, and my grandfather had been sober for many years. Either way, their decisions to participate in these activities ultimately lead to them passing-on to a new found peaceful place. Which leaves their friends, family and loved ones to plan viewings, funerals and memorials during an emotionally stressful time. This experience has made me realize that at this time of deep sadness you can also find strength and connections with your loved ones that was never there before. It is important to not miss any special events including, birthdays and holidays, because you don't know what will happen tomorrow. One thing I do know is that no matter what arrangements are planned, be sure they are what that person would've wanted, not what you think everyone else wants. RIP Brian Arnett and "Papa" Robert 'Don' Miller.

Here is information about the Brian Arnett Fundraiser

My friend, Veronica, who is Brian's older sister also writes a blog. Her posts are inspiring, touching and heartfelt. She is an amazing woman who embodies the strength of a thousand women and continues to impress me with her words every day. Click here for her blog, Everyday Kings!

Everyone Looks Out For Themselves!

I'm in the process of planning a Portfolio Review Day for graphic design students. In order to have their portfolios reviewed, I need reviewers! To get experienced professionals in the design community to participate in this event (without paying them), I had to put myself in their shoes. Why would they want to take four hours out of their busy schedule to participate in this event? 

That's when I realized that they might be looking for interns for their companies. What employer wants to go through the resume and interview process? So...when I reached out to the reviewers, who are also employers, I said that this event will give them the opportunity to look for talented interns for their company, without the hassle. Worked like a charm! I have ten reviewers from six different companies scheduled and all I have to pay for is lunch. 

Is It Weird?

Old pic of me & my bro (Justin) at a wedding

Even though I'm an event planner I tend to stay away from planning weddings. My step-sister is getting married this weekend, so my brother and I are both in the wedding. Is it weird that we're walking down the aisle together? I'm not sure I'm comfortable with this. I think it's going to be awkward. I might see if there is anyone else who wants to walk with him at the rehearsal dinner. I foresee myself getting stuck with him though, because we're the two shortest people! All the other bridesmaids will probably be taller than him with their heels on. Is it weird or am I just being weird?

Everyone Makes Mistakes

During a large sporting event in downtown Detroit the radio station I worked for had a prime marketing opportunity. We worked out a deal to put a large banner on the side of a parking garage facing the sports arena. I asked my team to hang the banner before the crowd started to arrive. As the event manager I had to be in a million places at once, so I didn't have an opportunity to check on the banner until the people started filtering into the arena. Unfortunately, that means people saw my station's banner upside down! I don't think I could've gone up the stairs of that parking garage faster. How embarrassing!

Welcome!

Know a lot about event planning? Know nothing about event planning? This blog is for you. No…we’re not talking about events for crazy ties, but I do love crazy ties. I love the mix of being fun and professional at the same time! Events are supposed to be enjoyable and entertaining, but they can be stressful and overwhelming too. Crazy Tie Event Planning's mission is to make sure your event is fun and stress-free.