Special Events Blog

Have an event coming up and you can't decide which DJ to hire? Here are three simple steps to help you find the right one for you!

Do your homework:

Check online for testimonials from their former clients. Besides first hand references, this is the next best thing to see how they work and what other clients thought about their work. If you like what you see, set up a time to meet with them in person to see how your personalities match up…you will be working closely with them to make sure your event goes off without a hitch!

See their work first hand:

Most DJ’s will be honored to let you see them in action or at least have a demo for you to listen too. This way you can make sure their style matches up to the type of event you are planning.

Make sure the price is right:

Anyone who is planning an event is on a budget, but picking the DJ with the lowest price is never the answer unless you are getting a friends and family discount :) If you want to work with the owner of the company, expect the price point to be higher than if you used one of their employees. Some DJ's will have extra goodies to make your event standout such as up lighting and gobo's, which are well worth the extra penny.

Check out our preferred vendors list for your next event at the Courtyard on St. James!!!

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A fun party favor that can add a bit of character to any event, caricature artists are an unexpected, easy way to entertain your guests while giving them something to take home.  Exaggerations of a person’s likeness, these drawings display an interest in a distorted and non-typical way. Be it riding a pony, or racing down a roller coaster, caricature artists are a good way to spruce up your party in a non-traditional type of drawing while adding humor!

Photo source : : macgarcia.com

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Cake trends have always been an ever changing topic in special events. Now seen as an extension of the host’s personality, these outlandish cakes have event guests around the country talking. Seen most frequently at birthday parties, these cakes usually embody something that the host likes. Some have even been known to resemble paintings, designer purses, and even zombies! Crazy cakes are a fun way to show your likes while impressing your guests with this delicious creation.

Photo source : Abduzeedo.com

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Up lighting has become a part of the wedding decor check list over the past couple of years.  Color coordinate the up lighting with your event and it will transform your party.  With the neutral color combinations of the Courtyard on St. James decor any color scheme works in our facility.  Regardless if you use up lighting or not, Courtyard on St. James is the place to have your next event!

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Photos booths are becoming increasing popular to have at events.  Whether it is a birthday party, wedding, corporate event or even a prom a photo booth will be a great hit!  I mean who doesn't love getting their picture taken.  To add to the fun, my clients will bring in different props for the guests to use and get creative such as funny hats, large sun glasses, blow up guitars etc.  Bonus, it also acts as a great favor too!
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Looking for an interesting idea to "WOW" your guests with?  How about bringing the Alamo to your next event here at the Courtyard on St. James...the Alamo drafthouse that is!  They will set up a screen with sound and digital video projection to play any movie or slide show you would like.  This is perfect for a birthday bash, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, Quinceanera or any other special event you are planning for!

http://drafthouse.com/houston

 

 

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Looking for an event venue that will allow you to relax during your planning?  As Houston's premier banquet facility in the Galleria area, we are known for our impeccable service. 

Whether it is during our initial meeting, food tasting, or event the guests are always well taken care of.  Our well trained, experienced staff will make sure your event will be seamless.  Have an event here and you'll be getting the thank you notes!

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Want to add a wow factor to your event, without spending major dollars…Well look no further!  Tissue pom-poms are a huge hit with all types of events such as weddings, teen events, birthday parties etc. 

They are so easy to make and allow you the freedom of any size you choose and any tissue paper color that is offered.  Follow these easy steps and get ready for all the wonderful compliments you will receive!

http://www.marthastewart.com/how-to/tissue-paper-pom-poms-how-to

Photosource: Marthastewart.com

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What is the one thing that everyone celebrates once a year?  Their birthday!  Whether you are turning 1 or 100 you will be having a celebration that day.  Why not share it with us! 

The Courtyard on St. James has had a chic candy land 2 year old party complete with Bounce house and face painters to an intimate birthday bash where the 50 year young gentleman was the movie star complete with movie posters hung on the walls and paparazzi as he entered his event on the red carpet!

 

Photo  source: forum.xcitefun.net

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In Latin American cultures, when a girl turns 15 (Quince anos) there is a wonderful celebration in her honor that celebrates her transition from childhood to young adulthood.  The event typically begins with a waltz accompanied by her father or partner.  Dinner and LOTS of dancing typically follow.

Dessert for past events have varied from a sundae bar, cupcakes with pink or white frosting and our signature quincenera chocolate fountain with PINK chocolate!  That's right, pink chocolate.  It is always a hit as it is paired with fluffy marshmallows, strawberries, pineapples and large pretzel sticks.

Whether your party will be an intimate of 50 or 300 guests the Courtyard on St. James has the room and dance floor space to make this a memorable night for your little princess!

Photo source: The chocolate fountain

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