25 Years and Counting

Well here it is my 25th anniversary. I cant help but look back on the past quarter century and wonder...where the heck did the time go! So much has happen in those 25 years, it has been a struggle at times. And I am sure the struggles are not over only replaced. But I have to say that we have been blessed and I guess you just have to look at life as a gift no matter what the package holds. We have not achieved greatness, wealth, traveled far, meet celebrates, enjoyed fine dinning or expensive wine. However we did once share a $10.00 cigar. But we have had the company and love of each other, even when we wanted to run away from life's problems we wanted to run away together. Both of us know there is always one person who loves us. So as this day approaches I want to make a special toast to my husband. Thank you for being my travel companion on this road of life, for sharing the bumps and turns and for never making me take a back seat. The trip has not always been smooth but I have never felt stranded. The ride only gets better with our new grandchild, so many hopes and dreams for him to share. Thank you my partner for the ride!

Eat, Drink and be Merry

And you know how the rest goes....for tomorrow you die! I have heard this for most of my life but it seems that since the recession began this statement has been fading away into the the quotes of a time gone by. Yes we still eat, that is not something one can give up however we can give up big budget items and go back to our roots (or should I say "southern roots") and have beans and potatoes and that pretty much sums up the menu. However the variety is large and you do get protein and lots of gas to run on. The drinking part is taking its tole on those of us who make our living serving the various libations to fun loving people everywhere especially those of us who do private events such as weddings and cooperate gathering. If you find yourself needing to cut cost we often become the expense to go. My friends need I remind you that the merry part is the one that counts and nothing can dull a reception quicker then tea and coffee. Great food is wonderful but almost anything taste better with a cocktail hour, it livens up the pallet and makes conversation with Uncle Joe and Aunt Mary more tolerable. And you know that line you always hear at least 10 times at family gatherings such as weddings "Look at you, how you have grown, why the last time I saw you you were only this tall" bla bla bla.......This ritual of greeting can be accepted much better with a glass of good wine. Having a bar with a good bartender can liven up the dullest gathering, and you can do it without breaking the bank. Limit your selection to only a few types, this narrows your mixers and garnish cost. Or have a beer - wine only bar, almost all guests are happy with one or the other. Offer regular or lite beer and white or red wine. You will be a hit with your guests and so will your event. Always hire a professional bar service who will insure your drinking guests are of legal age and not over served. Thus a merry time. You can still eat, drink and be merry and live on a budget.

Wedding Toast thank God there's a drink at the end

Wedding Toast:
Wow, what a special occasion for a toast. Time to reflect on all the moments of life that has brought you to this point. The point of NO return. Yes this is when you have just completed the most important promise you will make this side of eternity. It can be a walk down memory lane, a look toward new horizons or just the ramblings of a friend who should only talk while in the shower. Either way you will probably remember it for years to come. Therefore making it an outstanding event of your reception only makes sense. Make the filling of the toast glasses a ceremony in itself. Have your bartender special pour for each individual as they instruct that the bride and groom request their glass to be lifted in a toast. Tradition will normally ask for the best man and the maid of honor to give the opening toast but you may open it up to all if they feel the urge to speak, but beware of this, you could be in for a long ordeal. I have heard some that were heartbreaking and tearful, this is a time for joy not tears. A sprinkle of sentiment is good but some overdo. Humor is always the best if shared tastefully. The truth is you never know what your friends are going to say so relax, enjoy and know that a drink is at the ready! Penny@BarBop.com