A loveELY day

It goes with the territory.

As event planners, we are constantly one step ahead. One party, or holiday, has barely wrapped and we are already imagining a million more floral arrangements, menu items and color schemes.

So naturally, Team JG has begun volleying Valentine’s Day ideas back and forth between our East and West coast offices, long before Cupid has even sharpened his arrow.

Leading the charge this year is one of our new associates, Karoline. Call her a romantic, or just a dedicated working gal, but this lady dove right into the task at hand and pitched us 101 VDay ideas.

So, without further adieu, may I present to you, four (out of 101) additions to your Valentine’s party toDO list … ala Karoline.

1) DO incorporate bold colors. Keep red in the lead role but sprinkle in some other bright hues. A few great ways to include color can be lush flower arrangements, a bold runner over a white tablecloth, or dazzling napkin rings. If you're going for a youthful look, it's good to stick with the light pinks while integrating some light aqua or other pastels.

Want a more retro look? Some hot pinks with black and white candy boxes will get the job done.

(thisnext.com)

Or if you're thinking of a more classic look, red and white combinations are still fabulous.

(designsforliving.blogspot.com)

2) DO keep in mind though that this special day is for everyone and can stretch beyond the red rose. Pink roses represent appreciation; yellow is for joy and friendship, and peach ones are a sign of gratitude. So mix it up! Make the day about anything you want it to be.

3) DO splurge on party favor bags, like these:

(partyfavorsbydesign.com)

Your small treat bags could include recipe cards for sweet treats or handwritten notes to your guest telling them one thing you love about them!

4) DO, as ever, drink bubbly!

(barnonedrinks.com)

Tray pass this signature cocktail, the "Strawberry Sizzle"

Pair it with an oldie but goodie: white and dark chocolate covered strawberries.

Strawberry Sizzle

1 and 1/2 ounces Absolut Vanilla

1/2 ounce Strawberry liqueur

A splash of Cranberry juice

Splash of Champagne

Garnish with a fresh strawberry