"Something Borrowed, Something Blue, Something Old, Something New!"Have you ever heard this phrase? Today on our blog we're discussing the different types of borrowed, blue, old, and new that you can incorporate into your wedding- or help a friend/family member use in theirs!The whole concept of incorporating something borrowed, blue, old and new comes from an Old English Rhyme. Originally a British Custom, the rhyme has begun to come into play with weddings in the U.S. recently. The four objects can represent many things- luck, remembrance of a loved one, a childhood memory, a bond between someone close to you, and many more. Below are a list of some perfect ways to incorporate something borrowed, something blue, something old, and something new into your special day:Something old:-Cut a small piece of fabric from a clothing item that belonged to you as a child, or maybe a small piece of a wedding dress from your mother or grandmother. Incorporate that piece of fabric by sewing it into your veil, or sticking it inside of your wedding shoes while you walk down the isle. There are countless ways to use the "old" fabric from a piece of clothing that can symbolize memories and love.-Pictures! Seek out old photos of beloved grandparents or influential people in your life- or past. These can be framed and put in the dressing room for the bride to look at while getting ready. Another idea is bringing an old family photo album for the bride and her favorite gal's to look at while getting ready.Something New:-While looking for something new, keep in mind items that you've always wanted present on your day. Perhaps theres a vision of a pair of shoes that you absolutely love... buy them! This day only comes once. You also don't have to buy something new. You can always consider a gift from someone as your "new". A special "new" can also be your very wedding dress!Something Borrowed:-Something Borrowed can be a pair of earrings or a necklace from a special someone in your life. A mother's bracelet, grandmother's veil...the limit does not exist with what you can do for "borrowed". You can also 'borrow' a song from your parent's wedding or even 'borrow' a family recipe and have that dish present at your wedding reception. For example- "Katie's Chocolate Cake" is a favorite in my family. I could use that as a "borrowed" by borrowing my sister's recipe.Something Blue:- There are literally hundreds of "blue" items that you can incorporate into your wedding. If your color scheme allows, be sure to have one random blue flower in your bouquet. If you have colors such as browns, yellow, or even some pinks- try to ask your florist if they could put just one blue flower (maybe your favorite!) into the bouquet.There are hundreds of different ideas that you can use for the four fun and special "borrowed-blue-old-new" for your wedding. Have fun!(An example of "something Blue" above. )Post by Serendipitous Events By JessicaAlexandra Mattern
Wedding Day Essentials
We believe every bride will find themselves prepared to the best of their knowing on their big day, but sometimes no matter how well prepared she believes she is, there is always something that’s left behind/forgotten/etc. This post is specifically for the bride-to-be that wants to make her special day perfect. (We love perfection!)Things can get pretty crazy on the big day. Shoes are forgotten, lipstick is missing, and where is that “veil” thing you’re supposed to wear?! We have put together the most perfect essentials that every bride should have with her on her special day. Do you have your pen and paper ready? You’re going to want to write these down…
- Kleenex- Extremely necessary! Who doesn't cry at a wedding? Do you have your kleenex/tissues packed? We suggest you have some ready for those happy tears you’ll be shedding!
- Perfume- Not just any perfume, though. Wear your favorite. This is a big day, chose your best scent.
- Tide-To-Go- Accident's happen.
- Travel Mouth Wash- You wont want to chew gum, so a travel sized mouth wash is a great way to keep fresh breath.
- A Nail File- You're going to be busy, and nail chips and hang-nails can happen at any second. Make sure you're prepared with a file.
- Extra earring backs- Just in case
- Flats for getting ready- If you're getting ready at a destination, make sure you travel comfy with some nude flats or white wedges to keep you're feet comfy. You don't want to be distracted by your painful feet on this happy day!
- Ibuprofen/Aspirin- Sometimes the craziness of the big day can cause headaches/nausea. Be prepared with meds to fight off any unwanted sicknesses.
- Straws- Laugh all you want, but straws keep from spills and unwanted lipstick removal
- Something Old/Something New - We recommend you thing this one through long and hard. Make it special!
- Something Borrowed/Something Blue- 'Borrow' a favorite verse from the bible. Write it on the bottom of your heels or on a piece of paper then slip it inside your shoe. This could also be your something old.
And last but not least: Peace of Mind- You're big day is finally here. You might forget something at home, but you'll never forget how special this day is.XO,Alexandra MatternSerendipitous Events Marketing Intern
What Season Do I Choose?
This is a common question that most couples spend time thinking about before they start planning. In our heads we all have the idea of a perfect wedding day. The four beautiful seasons in the Midwest lead to four amazing scenes for a wedding.
Why choose a winter wedding date?
It’s romantic: cold weather provides a great atmosphere to snuggle with your loved ones and not worrying about your makeup melting in the heat.
Wedding dress: there are stunning accessories and over pieces for a dress such as a fur wrap or a velvet cloak
Guests: winter tends to be less busy for many people. There is a greater likely hood more of your invited guests will be able to come.
Honeymoon: a tropical vacation will be much needed!
Emerald green, sapphire blue, silver, deep purple and ruby red
Why choose a spring wedding date?
Flowers: there are so many blooming, fresh flowers that are easy to access
Season: spring is considered the most beautiful season of all by some people. It’s thought of as a season of rebirth, growth and purity.
Climate: a partly cloudy sky in the springtime makes for some of the best photos.
Colors: cheerful, happy, earthy tones will really pop and make a bold statement.
Pale green, light teal, purple, pink and light brown or taupe
Why choose a summer wedding date?
Availability: summer is the most popular time of the year to get married so check with your desired venues and vendors about open dates.
Weather: the days are longer which leads to more fun and sunshine. The chance of rain spoiling your big day is minimal.
Color options: there are typically two ideal color palettes for summer weddings- cheerful bright and pretty pastel colors.
Floral variety: there are a wide variety of flowers in season making superb color and style options. The bouquet options are almost endless!
Turquoise, bright green, yellow, peach and fuchsia
Pale yellow, ivory, blush pink, lavender and baby blue
Why choose a fall wedding date?
The beauty: the leaves are turning colors and the breeze is brisk and filling the air.
Enjoyable: cooler temperatures and the rich, bold fall colors will surround you and your guests.
Photos: the colors of the season are said to make some of the most beautiful wedding photos.
Weather: the mystery of the weather will make it a magical day. Rain, sun, snow or even hail is all a possibility in the fall.
Magenta, chocolate brown, reddish orange, orange tones and gold
Our team at Serendipitous Events loves to plan in every season and provide season, detailed ideas.
- Loghin Welch
Serendipitous Events by Jessica, Event Planner
Employee Appreciation- Corporate Events
Corporate events are something that employees love and appreciate. They help show your employees how much you appreciate what they do for you. It is also a great tool for getting your employees together to bond and create memories. Corporate events do not have to be something super elaborate. They can be simple and a couple hours. Some ideas for your corporate events could be…
- Dinner catered with a happy hour
- Night out on the town
- Wine & Canvas party
- Brewery tour
- Wine Tasting
- BBQ with families in the park
- Rent hotel rooms for a night at a waterpark for family fun
- Keynote speaker & happy hour
- Christmas party
- Golf outing
There are so many different events you can have for your employees. Corporate events are great a few times a year.
- Loghin Welch
Serendipitous Events, Event Planner
A couple things you must have on your wedding day!
Your wedding day is right around the corner and you don't want to forget a thing. We are here to help. Here is a list of a couple of our favorite must-haves to make your wedding day rock!
1. Your Vows: unless you are great at impromptu speaking, make sure you have your vows written and your thoughts together
2. Lingerie: what else makes you feel better than beautiful lingerie… Make sure your favorite lingerie with you on your big day!
3. Ceremony Programs: have all of your wedding ceremony programs written up and ready to go. This will help your guests follow along and learn about you and your special people.
4. Personal Props: decorate with a couple of your favorite props. What describes you and your significant other? Make sure to let that be known on your wedding day.
5. Beauty Sleep: most of all this is the most important. Get your beauty sleep so you are well rested and ready to rock the morning of your wedding! Release the stress and just take an hour to yourself! Before bed is also a great time to write a special note to your significant other to read before walking down the isle!
- Loghin Welch, Intern
www.SerendipitousEventsByJessica.com
Wedding Day Emergency Kit
credited by: http://swatchbookweddings.com/
Everybody needs an emergency kit on their special day!
Here are a few things that you might need...
Band Aids - If you haven't broke in these heels, chances are you will form a blister
Breath Mints - chewing gum does not look good on anyone
Clear Nail Polish - Stop that run in your stocking
Bobby Pins - All that dancing, your hair will move
Tissues - Who isn't going to cry on your awesome day
Deodorant - Someone is going to need it
White Nail Polish - fix up a french manicure, or whatever color you might need
Lotion - You don't need ashy elbows or knees for those pictures
Aspirin - It is going to be a looooooong day, and with all that crying
Compact Mirror - For quick touch up
Hair Spray - one word, flyaways
Tums - again, it is going to be a loooooong day
Drinking Straws - No reason to mess up your lip stick
Lint Roller - The boys will be in need of one of these
Snacks - You will forget to eat
Eye Drops - All that crying will dry your eyes out
Safety Pins - a save from a last minute mishap
Stain Remover - If the worst should happen, Be Ready
Water - It is always your best friend, looks good in pictures and you feel better the next morning
Static Guard - especially with light fabrics
Sewing Kit - emergency button repair
Now every bride and every wedding is different so you might need to add or subtract items, but this gives you an idea of what to bring in an emergency kit.
Valentine's Day Breakfast
Every year, at least once we are honored to receive a call from the KSFY morning show asking if we will put together an event with their corresponding show. In the past we have talked Oscars, 4th of July and Spread the word. This morning I got to chat up the holiday of LOVE! Nancy of Shawn and Nancy's morning show called last week to see if I was available. I always say YES! I have a blast every time I appear on the show, plus it gives me the opportunity to show all of the early risers what kind of creativity we are capable of! The trickiest part of the show is you have one awkward shaped table and very limited amount of time to whip out the creation. Oh and you have to be super quiet...if you know me, you know this is a challenge! I wanted to create a t able that anyone at home can recreate for their girlfriends or their kiddo's. Every day that we wake up is an incredible miracle so why not celebrate it! Please note that these photos were all from my iPhone and don't judge!
Take a look at a few of the items we whipped up!
Black Hills Wedding
On the other side of our gorgeously flat state is an area filled with rolling hills and country charm. A place where people stick to their word. A place where time is slow and people are friendly. A pristine location for a tented reception and ceremony in a teeny tiny chapel with a small stream clear enough to drink from to separate the two.Beyond all of the gorgeous details of the location were an amazing couple whom I have had the pleasure of knowing for many years! Beth and Bobby or <B2> were engaged in the most gorgeous location in Ireland while on a trip with Beth's family. How cool is that? Planning with Beth was a serious treat. She has a personality that would crack up even the crabbiest of people. She is her own person with a plethora of unique ideas! Bobby just does what Beth tells him to do, I am kidding...sort of! Bobby was a life saver during the set up of this wedding! He wasn't afraid to climb to the high peaks of the tent with a string of lights or to put flowers in vases.The guests were constantly wondering whats next as the details were ever changing . Beth and Bobby went very non traditional from music (check out the stellar band) to the unity wine ceremony. I am so thrilled that they asked me to be a part of their amazing day.Event Planning and design: Serendipitous EventsPhotography: Winckler PhotographyVenue: Beslers Cadillac RanchTent: Dakota Equipment RentalDJ: Tiki Man Entertainment
Wedding Wanderlust
Prague, Czech Republic is my absolute favorite city in the world. I love the culture of Prague; where East meets West, the beauty of cobblestone streets, European history lingers in the air, and having a glass of wine at noon is completely acceptable. There is something so special and beautifully unique about experiencing a world outside of our own…if you love traveling, why not bring the world to your wedding? Your guests can experience the world without jet-leg...well maybe...If you are filled with wanderlust like myself, add adventure to your wedding reception with cultural cuisines and traditions from your favorite places around the world.Your passport to a worldly wedding:
- Passport themed invitations. Create your own passport stamp with your name and wedding date.
- Use a large map as a guest book. Have guests pin their name to the location they traveled from. Plus, you can use it as wall decor!
- Exchange travel experiences by having guests write travel advice and tips from their favorite food, attractions, hotels, etc. on Popsicle sticks and drop them in a jar. Voila! Your next trip is already planned.
- Use a large chalkboard to write "cheers" in different languages and place it near the bar. Guests will have a good laugh attempting to "cheers" in numerous languages. Prost! Kippis! Skål! Chok dee! Na zdravi! No roc! Cheers!
- Have a dinner buffet or appetizer bar with traditional cuisine from various countries. Place labels in front of each dish with the name and country. On a safer side, try a dessert bar filled with kuchen from Germany, cannoli from Italy, strudel from Vienna, and macaroons from France. I’ll take one of each, please and thank you!
- Have fun with party favors. Start by browsing through World Market with your wedding planner and a notepad to gather creative ideas. Make a goodie bag filled with sweets from various countries, "____ & ____'s Love is So Sweet."
Guests will leave feeling like world travelers. Step aside Anthony Bourdain.
Eat Well, Travel Often.--Kaitlin Anne--
5 Ways to Wow Your Business Event
Follow these five tips of advice from Serendipitous Events for a business party that will leave employees with an unforgettable experience.1. Choose a unique location. Company picnics in the park are so-so. A company event held at a vineyard or other unique venues will WOW.
2. Make employees feel pampered by hiring a caterer instead of having everyone bring a dish. Choose a menu suitable for all taste buds. Chef Jeni did a fantastic job creating a menu with shrimp cocktail, caprese bites, chocolate truffles, and more yummy goodness to satisfy all palates.3. Step outside of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to mingle with someone new and avoid talk of work. Get to know one another’s hobbies, favorite sports teams, and life outside of work. Steer clear of stress!
4. Music is always a must! Hire a local musician or create a playlist filled with employees favorite songs to avoid those awkward moments of silence. Toby Kane entertained with his laid back music, which created a relaxing atmosphere.
5. Incorporate a variety of activities to do throughout the day. From wine tasting with Will at Calico Skies to a guided painting session with Tali from Uncorked Creativity, Spader experienced a day full of fun and entertainment. Make sure to have a camera to capture the special moments. Brittany Elizabeth Images photographed the Spader smiles.
Big thank you to Spader Business Management, Brittany Elizabeth Images, Calico Skies, Uncorked Creativity, Royal Limousine, and Chef Jeni Catering!Enjoy! - Kaitlin
Wedding Gift Ideas to Dye For!
Have Your Cake...And Look Good Naked;)
Don’t be shy about this hot new wedding trend: plenty of sweet without the regret!We’ll be the first ones to tell you before your baker does...wedding cakes have shed some pounds of icing and will soon be bearing all in a irresistible display of layers for you and your guests. This emerging trend is called “Naked Cake" (no joke!)Expect to see gorgeous cake towers, stacked mix-and-match cake flavors, and creative edible architecture at the cake tables of every trend-setting wedding in the coming year! Your favorite cake flavors finally have a chance to meet your taste buds without hiding behind mountains of frosting and sugar…and for those of you watching, naked cakes strip away a lot of calories! No matter your wedding style, this cake can be personalized to fit your big day as simply or elaborately as your little sweet tooth desires.Let your ring finger wear the heavy frosting; uncover your wedding cake for a sweet statement everyone will want a piece of!The secret: Less is More….less guilt, more pretty:)Happy Nibbling;)~Mandy Marie xoxo
DIY Bridesmaid Survival Kit
DIY Bridesmaid Survival Kit
Try this DIY project for a cute and inexpensive gift for your bridesmaids. Stock up on these travel size items at Target and grab a pack of mints at the checkout line. Simple. Affordable. Voi la!
What you’ll need:
Mints, Tylenol, individual wet wipes, small Kleenex pack, Tide To Go stick, granola bar, tinted lip gloss or Chapstick, Band-Aids, and sandwich baggies.
Use these printable templates to staple on baggie: http://100layercake.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/Party-Favor.mutedjeweltones.pdf OR http://100layercake.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/Party-Favor.Bridal-Survival-Kit.pdf
Rest assured your bridal party will be free from stains and pains on your wedding day!
Xo,
Kaitlin Anne
Bride-to-Be Tip #4: Don't Forget Your Dancing Shoes
Wedding shoe shopping just got twice as fun!You'll want the show-stopping heels to make your grand entrance at the ceremony, but kick those off after the kiss & change into something fun for the dancefloor...your feet deserve some love too!Keds, Nikes, ballet flats, flip flops, slippers, or even fuzzy socks- rock them as they are or bling them out with glitter & rhinestones!Your wedding is a day meant for two...and that includes shoes;)Happy Shoe Shopping!~Mandy Marie xoxo
Bride-to-Be Tip #3: Let's Talk Safety!
In a world of unpredictable weather and lawsuits, dream-come-true events can turn into nightmares in the blink of an eye. Risk management and back-up planning can make or break your event! Any good planner will tell you it’s better to be over-prepared, so here are a few things to keep in mind. You & your planner can take care of these details now so you can have more time later for all the fun wedding details!
For Outdoor Events Have a back-up plan if it rains; and no, this will not jinx your wedding! This may mean booking an alternate indoor location just in case, or if you’re using a tent and it’s sturdy enough, have a safety plan of where to seek shelter in the case of severe weather. Plan bathrooms and signage; be sure bathrooms will have enough toiletries for entire event. Consider allergy season, bugs, temperature, etc.
For Open Bars Plan transportation for the wedding party; a bus, limo, or designated driver will keep everyone safe on your special day. Cab numbers and/or extra hotel rooms should be on hand in the case of intoxicated guests. Be sure both your site and your bartender have a liquor license.
Menu Choice Consider any food allergies and dietary restrictions of your bridal party and guests. Discuss severe food allergies and vegetarian/gluten-free options with your caterer.
Candle Light If you plan for any type of open flame (and this includes sparklers, cigar bars, food warmers), be sure someone knows where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them.
*Note When Booking A Venue Read contracts carefully and have your planner read before signing anything. Ask about safety plans and security. Some sites will require you to purchase event insurance; be sure to include this in the budget!!!
Make a date with your planner to discuss details: the pretty little ones AND the unglamorous-but-totally-necessary safety ones!
Happy Planning!
~Mandy Marie xoxo
It’s YOUR wedding…and his too!
You have his attention at the word “honeymoon”. But switch the topic to napkin colors and centerpieces, and he’s hitting the snooze button on you and tuning into ESPN! Fiancés can be so frustrating sometimes…but that still doesn’t mean you can’t get him in the mood to make big plans with you. Here’s a list of wedding day plans he’d probably like a say in; with a little persuasion, you don’t have to make all the decisions by yourself!
The Menu: What guy doesn’t like to eat? And while you two may not have the same appetite, both your choices can add variety to the menu….and this will insure that all types of eaters at your wedding will be satisfied and happy! Make reservations with your caterer & go on a food-tasting date together!
The Bar: He’ll want to celebrate the best day of his life, and you both can make sure your favorites are on tap without going over budget. Signature bride’s and groom’s drinks will add to the theme and make things easier on bartenders and indecisive guests. And your groom will probably be more than happy to take charge of the bridal party’s stash for the limo ride…check it off the list and get ready for a good time!
Entertainment: You don’t have to choose a DJ and create all the playlists yourself; your groom probably has a couple ideas up his sleeve! Maybe him and the groomsmen will surprise the crowd with a line dance or a flash mob, and he probably wouldn’t mind picking the song for the garter;) Groom’s lounges with a private bar, cigars, and perhaps a pool table are very trendy in the event world right now: you can thank Leo (aka Gatsby) for that! And if he’s interested in a man cave for cocktail hour, then that means YOU get a VIP room for you & your girls too! Massages, chocolates, & VIP cocktail servers anyone?!
Wedding Poses: You’ll want the timeless pics, but your photo sessions don’t have to be stuffy! Men don’t always enjoy being in front of the camera, but once you get the basics covered, there are endless fun photos to take….and what better time to capture them than with a professional photographer on your big day!!! To maximize your photo session, have ideas & any needed props planned ahead of time…and include your groom in the comic relief plans!!! Funny couple photos or the whole wedding party: hunt out ideas on Pinterest and Instagram, and get creative as a couple! He’ll be more excited about the big day when he finds out it doesn’t all have to be formal!
“Most grooms are N.I.D….Not Into Details,”- The Wedding Planner
Time for you to prove this statement wrong; get him involved in what matters most to him!
~ Mandy Marie xoxo
Make 2013 Your year
January is coming to an end and many of our New Year’s resolutions are diminishing right before our eyes. For those of you who are still going to the gym everyday and sticking to your goals, Go You! As for me, I’ll stick to my yogapants/leggings/jeggings until I magically fit back into my skinny jeans. I swear I’ll start my health-kick when… when it gets closer to summer. For now, a sit up and a gut-belly-laugh is my workout plan. The purpose of this is not to encourage you to cancel your gym membership or put your goals on hold, but to try a few simple things that can uplift your life that do not involve calorie counting or side planks.
13 Ways to make 2013 YOUR year
1. Smile. Right now. You’re never fully dressed without a smile.2. Meet a friend for wine and actually DO it. None of this, “We should get drinks sometime,” business. It is an easy phone call.3. Give compliments and truly mean them.4. Have a “treat yourself day” every now and then. This includes but is not limited to: manicures, shopping, laughing, midday martinis, People Magazine, whatever suits your fancy!5. Try a new recipe from another country. Travel the world in your own kitchen by experimenting with recipes from Germany to Brazil. Ever tried African cuisine? http://allrecipes.com/recipes/world-cuisine/africa/main.aspx6. Buy your favorite bubble bath, body wash, or shampoo and don’t think twice about the price! Love every minute of your relaxing bath or shower and lather that hot body up! Add a facemask for bonus points.7. Listen to “My Girl” by the Temptations. Sing realllly loud.8. Go out for an over the top dinner filled with carbs, carbs, and more carbs. Order wine or beer...or wine and beer. Do laugh, cry, and love it up. Don’t regret the calories. Consider it a free pass night.9. Watch any movie with Leonardo DiCaprio. You cannot deny those good looks.10.Crunched for time? Tone up your buns with 6-minute butt blasting a with one click on YouTube.Butt blaster: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YBnm2ZJNCM&feature=channel11. For one day, do not let a word of gossip slip from your mouth. “I can’t believe (fill in the blank) was such a …” NOPE! Stop the word vomit from spilling out. (Fill in the blank) is not worth creating negative energy in your life. Focus on positive thoughts and bettering yourself.12. Try a new hairstyle and wear bright bold lipstick. Maroon, fire engine red, hot pink. Just do it, girl!13. Post inspirational quotes/song lyrics on the bathroom mirror, in your car, or on the fridge.All you need is love, love, love is all you need. – The BeatlesHappy New You,Kaitlin
S'more Love for Heather and Adam
Heather and Adam Willert tied the knot lakeside at Camp Lakodia on a beautiful October afternoon. They were surrounded by love from friends and family as they celebrated their special day. The love and energy radiating from the bride and groom was undeniably contagious. I am so blessed to have shared this day with Adam and Heather. Let me tell you, those two sure know how to have fun! They are a perfect pair and are absolutely stunning together. “Adam makes me laugh uncontrollably, makes me feel incredibly special and loved. He’s my rock; the one I turn to for everything and the reason why I want to wake up every morning and be the best person I can be. He is so supportive, loving, and caring.” – Heather
Heather’s vibrant personality was reflected through the themed reception décor. It was an elegant mix between “peacock” and rustic themed with paper lanterns and lights streaming over the reception hall. The center pieces were hand crafted with a variety of flowers, feathers, and twigs. Her face lit up when she saw the event hall and everything came together beautifully. Everyone was enjoying drinks, cupcakes, and dancing up a storm throughout the night.
Each wedding guest received a "S'more Love!" favor with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate to take home. We love that idea!
Raise your glass to an amazing couple whose love reminds us how special life can be when you share it with the one you love most.Xo,Kaitlin
Something New, Something Old. Something Borrowed, Something Gold.
5 Simple Ways to Show you Care
In the age of social media, sometimes real communication gets lost in Twitter and Facebook. I do absolutely love social media, but there is one thing that should stay in physical form, "thank you" notes. A truly meaningful “thank you” or “I miss you” should be expressed by more than a #hashtag or wall post. Your sincerity is not so sincere when the entire Facebook world is posting the same thing, “Miss you so much, let’s get together soon!” Sound familiar? How many of these posts do you see a day?I received a “thank you” from a friend the other day, and it was not in the form of a wall post or email. It was a time line of many of the heartfelt, hysterical, and frankly embarrassing moments we have shared throughout our friendship. It felt so good knowing that even though we hadn’t seen each other in months, our friendship was important to her. Whether your friends are near or far, keep the relationships alive with these simple creative ways to show appreciation. Don't text it, email it, post it, or #hashtag it, instead show how much you care by making your “thank you” or “I miss you” really stand out by adding a personal touch filled with old memories, humor, and baked goods. 5 Simple Ways to Show you Care1. Send a $5.00 gift card to a coffee shop to a friend you have not seen in awhile. “Thanks a latte for being such a great friend!” or something like “Coffee’s on me today, but next time let’s make sure we are together having a cup. I could use a good laugh. Miss you, dear friend!”2. Create a CD of all your favorite songs from a memory you shared together. Maybe it was the summer of 2009, a weekend spent at the lake, a road trip with your best friends for spring break, a girls vacation; whatever it might be, music brings the best memories back to life. Aww nostalgia…3. Create a list of meaningful reasons what makes this friend, lover, or family member so special to you. Send the list with a frame so they can be reminded every day what makes your relationship so unique.4. Cookies. Receiving a plate of warm cookies is always heavenly, how could anyone disagree… It shows you took the time out of your busy schedule to show you care. “Do you know you are one awesome cookie?” (Wink. Wink.)5. Send a package of small knick-knacks that remind you of that person with little notes attached to each item.Hopefully this gives you a few easy ways to show and tell your loved ones that you care. Be personal, and your "thank you" won't be forgotten like yesterday's wall post.Xo,Kaitlin