life isn't average. neither are we.
Let's Party Like It's 2011
Kristina Chau - Saturday, December 31, 2011
 Hey party peeps,

It's been way too long since I've posted about the happenings in this party guru's world, so my apologies.  With having said that, I promise I haven't been lazy without reason.  It's been a great and busy year and I feel blessed for all of my clients that I've had the opportunity to work with.  To celebrate the year that was, here's a photo re-cap of of my highlights in 2011: 

 

June 6, 2011

Once again I was part of the fabulous annual simply divas fundraiser in support of Family Association of Mental Health Everywhere at The Berkeley Church. From fabulous chef tasting stations and sipping on divatinis, to a grand silent auction, and of course enjoying the star-filled show, it was an afternoon not to be missed!

 

June 8, 2011

It was so great to work with an amazing organization such as SKETCH, who provide working arts for street involved youth, on their Capital Campaign Launch "Home is Where the Art Is".  We raised $46,000 towards funding for their new exciting space that will open in 2013.   It was a great evening of performances and a live auction that was supported by such friends as former mayor David Miller, pictured above.

 

 

June 9 - 13, 2011

As Road Manager for the Endbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer in support of Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, I was part of an incredible execution team that supported the amazing 4,610 riders who rode over 200 kilometers to help raise $17.5 million dollars!  Talk about inspirational!

 

June 25, 2011

I was so touched when the groom-to-be, Tommy Blodgett inquired about my services for his upcoming wedding to the beautiful Kristina Nicholson.  They had a lovely brunch wedding at the Boiler House in the Distillery District on a beautiful summer day.  Photo credit:  Marianne Rothbauer Photography

 

 

July 16, 2011

Planning this vintage style Mad Men themed wedding for Jane & Luis at the Gladstone Hotel was such fun!  I loved being able to shop at vintage stores for the various decor pieces and arranging for fun details such as getting them a jukebox and that Mercury Monterey pictured with them above.  Photo credit:  Jessica Lin Photography


July 21, 2011

The 2011 Franklin Templeton Investment Forum gave a rare opportunity for investors and advisors to hear from top investment experts in one of Toronto's finest concert halls,  Roy Thompson Hall. Having worked with the Franklin Templeton Investment team previously, it was great to come on board once again to help the execution of this annual event.


September 2 - 5, 2011

Helping to produce The Hot & Spicy Food Festival at Harbourfront Centre was a definite highlight as I was back on my old stomping grounds working with familiar faces and helping to plan a great festival that combines some of my biggest passions - music and food!  From hosting an international Iron Chef competition to breaking a Guinness World Record for the longest consecutive barbecuing, there was no shortage of excitement during this Labour Day weekend.


 

September 8 - 12, 2011

The 2011 Shopper's Drug Mart Weekend to End Women's Cancers saw 4013 participants walk a 60km route over two days who raised 9.4 million dollars for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation.  Once again joining the incredible execution team, we worked tirelessly for five days straight to produce the opening, overnight camp, and closing ceremony sites to celebrate these dedicated walkers and cancer survivors.

 

September 25 - October 8, 2011

Global Village Program through Habitat for Humanity in Braga, Portugal 

While this one isn't exactly part of my party guru world, it was definitely a highlight of 2011.  I participated alongside 10 other dedicated Canadians to help rebuild a family's home in need.  I truly believe in the importance of volunteerism and giving back and have to say that this was one of the most rewarding and inspiring experiences of my life.

 



November 6, 2011

Having served at Salt Wine Bar before, I was honoured to help them out with their 1st anniversary event, Salt Speakeasy.  This event theme was a cheeky play on their early days when Salt wasn't able to acquire a liquor license due to the moratorium placed on Ossington restaurants and bars.  It was a fun evening that featured prohibition-style cocktails, flapper girls, a jazz band and raised funds in support of Nazareth House,



December 31, 2011

What a better way to ring in the new year by celebrating the marriage of my two friends, Laura and Dave!  This definitely "not your average" wedding was held at 99 Sudbury in the open space of the Glass Factory.  The event truly reflected this couple's personalities and their sense of style, as they are both designers. Laura of Uno Nove, helped with my branding and Dave of Big Spin Media, designed my website.  Everything from the decor, to the aerialist performer, to having the bride's sister Clara Lofaro sing their procession and first dance songs, all of the details had a personal touch and were so much fun for all of the guests to enjoy.  Congrats Lau & Dave!


So there you have it!  This is just a sampling of the amazing events I feel so lucky to have been a part of this year.  As you can see, it was quite busy so I want to thank all of you for your continued support.  I look forward to partying with you more this year!

For the life of the party,


Let It Grow!
Kristina Chau - Friday, November 12, 2010
Hey party peeps!

In honour of Movember, I thought I would write a post on how to throw down a mo-riffic fundraiser - and yes, there will be plenty "mo" puns throughout this.  Movember is a world-wide moustache growing charity event held in November each year to bring awareness to men's health.  Here in Canada proceeds go directly to Prostate Cancer Canada.


First off, determine what your fundraising goal is and the budget you have to help achieve this.  You don't need a large budget, however do realize that you will likely need to spend some money, in order to raise some.



Next select a date and a mo-propriate venue to host your fundraiser.  It could be just throwing a house party at your own humble abode or perhaps the local bar down the street.  Wherever you select, try and ensure that you don't spend money on the venue as this will ensure that most of the proceeds raised, go towards the cause.  If you decide to go to a venue, barter with them to donate their space - offer them in-kind marketing and promotion and have them donate part of the proceeds at the bar so they receive a tax receipt.



Utilize the Movember website as a great resource for everything mo-tastic.  There's a link to acquire your own free Movember Party Pack that includes a variety of items such as a Man and Miss of Movember sash, posters, donations boxes, pins and stickers.  All of these Movember branded items are sure to be a hit at your event.



Now it's time to get creative!  Think of various ways to raise funds besides charging an admission price.  Here are a few ideas:
  • Approach local businesses to donate prizes and host a contest with various categories i.e.  the best mo sculpture; the best use of a fake mo; the best fu manchu mo; the options are endless!
  • Have a photo booth set up with various moustache props and charge a fee for everyone to get in on the fun.
  • Get local artists to donate a piece to a Movember exhibit and host a silent auction.
  • Set up a "Pin the Mo on Burt" (Reynolds that is) game and charge a nominal fee for people to play.
  • Make it easy for guests and have a laptop or two set up on the Movember web page so guests can make online donations with their credit cards.
So men, as you are the fundraiser make sure you are actively promoting your event and connecting with your network!  If you have an iPhone, download the Movember app and post photos of your mo's progress and ensure to include a link for event tickets or donation information when sharing on Facebook or Twitter.

And ladies just because Movember is about men's health, it doesn't mean you can't join in on the celebration and fun.  Now I'm not suggesting you need to go all hippie and let your mo grow in au natural, however there are tons of mo merch out there that you can sport that are super cute.  Here are a few:


Demistache have adorable moustache necklaces for sale and $8.00 of every purchase is donated to Movember!


Mo Love

Fuzzy Ink have also partnered up with Movember and will donate $5.00 of every purchase made.  Purchase one of these cute t's to show your support!



Or if you have a booboo, make it feel better with these amazing moustache band aids.  There are four different sizes and styles included in the pack which can be purchased online at Urban Oufitters.


As you can see there are plenty of ways to get in the Movember spirit and show your support!  If you like my ideas please like this on Facebook or Tweet about it with the links below and have yourself a mo-tastic day!

For the life of the party,




Let Them Eat Cacao!
Kristina Chau - Thursday, October 28, 2010
Hey party peeps,

Happy Chocolate Day!  Yes, that's right, apparently October 28 is National Chocolate Day...well for our friends down in the States it is.  

Anyhow I figured that this is the perfect inspiration to write a blog post on chocolate events and venues in the city and how you can incorporate everyone's favourite delectable treat to create your own "not your average party"!

pic-ball.jpg (29912 bytes)Toronto Chocolate Festival - In it's 5th year, the annual Toronto Chocolate Festival is a series of events that cater to the chocoholic in you!  It started last Friday on October 22 and runs until November 7 city-wide. Check out the website for events such as The Chocolate Ball, which was held at Palais Royale; or Chocolicious: Tour de Chocolate offering a passport to the many chocolatiers and pastry shops in Toronto; or enjoy the afternoon and have Chocolate High Tea at the Windsor Arms Hotel.


MoRoCo Chocolat - Amongst the shops and restaurants in the trendy Moroco Chocolat Restaurant Torontoneighbourhood of Yorkville, you will find tucked away a chocolate lover's paradise. Entering their boutique is like entering a little piece of heaven.  The clean white display cases showcase some of the most tantalizing treats your eyes have ever laid on.


Moroco Chocolat YorkvilleAdjacent to their boutique you enter their grandiose lounge which is open for afternoon tea, weekend brunch and can also be rented for special events.  It's a perfect venue to host a shower or a unique corporate event. Surprise your guests with one of their fabulous chocolate indulgences such as the "Gimmie S'Mores Torching Table" station or the "Chocolate Velvet" sipping chocolate bar.  MoRoCo can also be hired to cater your next event. 


Attend a Chocolate Workshop - I've mentioned in previous blog posts that cooking schools and mixology classes are fun interactive event ideas but here's a delicious spin - arrange to attend a chocolate or truffle making workshop! 

Stubbe at Christie and Dupont specializes in chocolate but also offers yummy treats such as tortes, pastries and truffles handmade on-site.  Patrons can view the open-kitchen where these mouth-watering treats are created right in front of them and also sign up for one of their chocolate workshops.



Host a Chocolate Tasting Party - A Taste of Chocolate will work with you to customize a chocolate tasting at your next corporate or private party.  Your guests will learn about where chocolate comes from, how it's made, what to look for when purchasing high-quality chocolate and even the health benefits, all while tasting!



Lastly, don't forget that everyone loves chocolate so what's a more perfect favour at your shower or wedding or corporate gift?  Send your guests away with a beautifully wrapped box of gourmet chocolate or truffles and they'll be sure to remember you and your event.  Check out BlogTO's list for some of the best chocolatiers in Toronto.

As you can see, there are many ways to celebrate your occasion with chocolate.  What better excuse to indulge than an event?  ;)

For the life of the party,




not your average party