6 Tips for Throwing a Super Bowl Party on a Budget!

It’s that time of year again! We are just days away from one of television’s most-watched events, the 48th annual Super Bowl! More than 108 million people tuned in for last year, and we can only expect that number will increase for this year’s event. The Super Bowl showdown takes place this Sunday, February 2nd between the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos. Not only are the two best teams in the league facing one another, this is the first ever Super Bowl taking place in an outdoor stadium at the Meadowlands, home to the New York Giants and New York Jets.

Year after year, people gather to enjoy the game of football, those hilarious commercials, the halftime show, and of course to see which team gets the Lombardi trophy. If you’re hosting a party this year, it can be stressful to decide how much to spend on food and beverages. No need to worry! Leah Ingram, author of Suddenly Frugal, brings us 6 tips to throwing a Super Bowl party on a budget.

1. Use coupons and buy on sale. It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t spend the time collecting coupons to save the most money. It will go a long way if you can save on each item you are looking to purchase.

2. Buy in bulk to save the most. Get out that Costco card and shop at a warehouse club! Any time of membership will do. Snacks and finger foods will be much cheaper if you buy them in bulk. Don’t forget about paper towels and bottled water, both are essentials to keeping a clean house and hydrated group!

3. Avoid convenience to keep costs down. If you’re adding a few healthy items to the menu, make sure to buy in large quantities. Dips can be a party favorite, so make sure to buy fruits and vegetables in bulk that can be cut for dipping. It’s a simple and easy to share dish!

4. Make your party menu with next week’s dinner in mind. Tons of planning can go into throwing a Super Bowl party, and often times we end up with more food than we can handle for one evening. Make sure your leftovers can be made into meals to feed yourself or family over the next week or so. This way you will have made the most of your party purchases!

5. Go with one-dish wonders. Think about a few bold dishes that will satisfy your guests! Chili, tacos, and macaroni and cheese are great options because you can add in a buffet for toppings where guests can dress up their dishes in any way they would like.

6. Think potluck. Ask your guests to chip in by bringing a dish! Hosting won’t seem as stressful, and you can save some extra cash. And hey, it can be fun to enjoy a variety of foods and see who came up with the most creative dish!

These useful tips can assist you in planning a party on a budget and make this Super Bowl a fun and exciting experience! What tips will you use when planning your Super Bowl Extravaganza, and who do you think will take home the Lombardi Trophy?! Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook & Twitter!

Event Designer Predictions: Top Trends in 2014

As 2014 quickly surfaced, event designers made their predictions for hot trends as well as tired ones. At ABCey, we love to keep ahead of the curve on emerging trends, especially in event design. Here are predictions from some top event designers based on three design elements: theme, props, and color palette.

LESLEE BELL

Leslee Bell, founder of Decor & More: Themes can truly set the tone for an event. Leslie says ‘Cirque’ and ‘Alice in Wonderland’ are themes that will remain popular in 2014. Stand-up receptions will continue to go for the club look, using colors such as grays and blacks to make the setting more enticing than the basic white on white. Circus is a theme that is predicted to be on its way out. As far as props go, Leslie believes the bolder the prop, the bigger the impact. Oversized props such as mirrors, moveable walls, and giant walk-through frames will add depth and drama. She also believes bold, tropical colors are in for the next year.

MATTHEW DAVID HOPKINS

Matthew David Hopkins from 360 Design Events: Aligned with Leslee’s predictions on color palettes, David believes bold colors are in, not only for 2014, but for the next few years. He says combining metallics is what’s hot for this year. A mix of gunmetal and gold or copper is in. What’s out: orange is a color that is fading, and won’t make an impact on your 2014 event. Metallic tableware and tinted glass will be found on tabletops at events in 2014. According to Matthew David, a neutral linen combined with a pop of color is “very now.” He also suggests to keep an eye out for cobalt glass, as it will be very prevalent over the next couple years.

EDGAR ZAMORA

Edgar Zamora from Revelry Event Designers: Mixtures of ‘trend’ and ‘Old World’ make unique themes for 2014 events. This theme can be executed by using wood, mirrored, and antique tables. This can create an unforgettable dining experience for 100 – 200 guests. Shabby chic is a theme that is tired, and will not be seen in 2014 events. According to Edgar, guests are looking for events that bring elements with legacy and history. Trending color palettes are basic whites with pops of lavenders and purples.

JAMES DOUGLAS

James Douglas from Shiraz Events: Rustic modern is a hot theme for 2014. This new trend is compiled of raw materials with wood finishes, and a color palette of black and silver. Mason jars, wood coffee tables, and vintage barn pendants can create a rustic setting with a modern twist. Black and gold decor is in, while pleated stage skirting is out. What’s up and coming? Furniture and various decor pieces with neon lining.

Themes, props, and color palettes are each important design elements that add to any event! What do you think of the 2014 predictions from these event designers? Do you have any predictions of your own? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!

Outdoor Events: The 10 Things You Didn’t Know You Needed

As summer BBQs and outdoor events reach their peak, you may find yourself ready to throw your own outdoor event! Remember ABCey’s list of 10 essential outdoor event items that are easily overlooked.

1. Permits | Whether your event is in a park, campgrounds, or even in your own yard, sometimes permits and restrictions you never new existed are lurking! Get all the facts before you start playing loud music or starting fires, even on the grill.

2. Speakers | You never know the difference a little music makes until it’s there! Products like Jambox are lightweight, easy to carry, and connect wirelessly to your iPod. Bring the party with you wherever you go!

3. Blankets and Chairs | Chairs are bulky to carry and blankets can be an afterthought, but these items make a world of difference! Not only do they give guests a space to sit and enjoy, they make your get-together look more official. Plus, your group is easy to spot from across the park!

4. Lighting | As the event moves into evening, you’ll need a seamless way to keep the party going strong! Use candles, tea lights, or lanterns as decorations and centerpieces during the day for an easy transition into nighttime fun!

5. Bug Zappers | The weather is hot, and there will be bugs. If no one wants to use bug spray, outfit your space with citronella candles designed to keep mosquitos away. No one likes getting bit!

6. Shade | Sun is definitely fun, but there should be options for people in need of a little escape. In addition to guest sunscreen, set up large umbrellas or tents for any shade seekers. They’re also useful in the (unfortunate) event of bad weather!

7. Water | Nobody ever brings enough water! If you’re outside for a couple hours, your body is losing even more fluid than usual. Keep that in mind when buying supplies.

8. First Aid Kit | Kids scrape knees, people need aspirin, and someone always seems to need a bandaid! Keep a medical kit, even a little one, on hand just in case.

9. Weights | Can you picture the wind sending all the napkins into a flurry? Prevent it by bringing your own table weights to weigh down tablecloths, paper plates, and anything else in danger. Weights can be anything from rocks to ready-made ones from a party store.

10. Solemates | Sometimes, a girl just needs her heels. Walk over grass, dirt, and mud easily with Solemates, a plastic cover that slips over your heel to protect you from sinking and staggering.

Did these tips help you? Tell us in a comment below or on Twitter and Facebook!

Your Ultimate Guide to SF Pride!

As LGBT Pride month comes to a close, the 43rd Annual San Francisco Pride Celebration is just beginning! ABCey put together the ultimate guide to help you make the most out of one of our city’s biggest events of the year.

1. Download | The San Francisco Pride 2013 App is available for download on most smartphones. Put Pride in your pocket with schedules, event information, maps, and even where to find bathrooms throughout the weekend!

2. Ride | The easiest way to get to Pride is to take BART to Civic Center Plaza. However, BART workers are deciding whether or not to go on strike this weekend, which would severely impact transit all across the bay. Visit BART’s website or download the Embark iBart app for train schedules.

3. Tweet | For any and all Pride updates in real-time, make sure to follow SFPride and SFPrideLive! SFPride is the official account for the Pride Parade and Celebration, while SFPrideLive handles the festivities’ televised and online broadcasts. Either way, your Twitter feed won’t miss a beat!

4. Party | The best thing about Pride is the celebrating! There will be so many fun LGBT events this weekend, so keep track of them with Wsup Now. This app isn’t only a calendar: it shows you what events are near you, shows you how to get to them, and lets you post pictures if you’re there! The official Pride calendar can be found on SF Pride’s Official Website.

5. Know | This year, the LGBT community faces many high-profile issues locally and globally. Stay educated by keeping up with the controversy surrounding Bradley Manning and the Prop 8 and DOMA Supreme Court decisions.

The Pride Celebration runs from 12:00 p.m.- 6p.m. on Saturday, June 29th and 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 30th. Sunday’s parade kicks off at 10:30 a.m. from Beale Street along Market and ends at Market and 8th St. in the heart of downtown San Francisco.

Will you be participating in any San Francisco Pride celebrations? Tell us about it and let us know if our tips helped you! Shoot us a comment or hit us up on Twitter or Facebook!

5 Ways to DIY “Rustic Chic” Events

It’s finally summer and the long, lazy days are the perfect setting for a chic rustic party. Instead of spending too much on invitations and centerpieces, try ABCey’s best ways to DIY your next rustic event!

1. Centerpieces | Mason jars are a popular staple for rustic centerpieces, so try using other vessels! Old or new glass bottles of varying shapes and sizes are a good way to play up proportionality around the table. If you want more of a shabby-chic vibe, head to the pantry for some canned goods. You can strip them down and leave them bare or adorn them with lace or a ribbon!

2. Invitations | DIY-ing your invitations is possible for even for largest of guest lists! Use stamps to give your invitations a vintage, cattle brand feel.

3. Decorations | Decorating your rustic event can be very hands-on and is a great opportunity to show your event’s personality. Paper lanterns, strings of pinecones, and using wooden ladders as a tiered display are easy ways to adorn the event space.

4. Food | Rustic events pair well with classic comfort foods. For cute hors d’oeuvres, whip up a charcuterie and cheese plate, mini pies, or tacos. If you decide to cater, you can still dress up the place settings with mini chalkboard name tags and utensils sealed with burlap and twine.

5. Party Favors | The possibilities are endless! If the event is rustic, keep the favors simple yet put together. Try out homemade jams, cookies, candles, or soaps. If you used the centerpiece ideas, send them home with guests! Put the gifts in wooden baskets, personalized burlap sacks, or mini cardboard box and voila!

Which of our DIY ideas are your favorite? Tell us in a comment or on Facebook and Twitter!

5 Creative Ways to use Social Media at your Next Event

People have been using social media to spread the word about their events for a while now, and ABCey thinks it’s time for a make-over! Follow our fun and effective tips that use technology to make your next event the very best it can be!

1. Facebook Invitations with a Twist | Creating a Facebook event is so blah. Spice it up with a picture of you and the event details and tag your friends! These pictures combine the personal and creative feel of a handmade invitation with the accessibility of social media.

2. Share What You Want | Using apps like the Scan & Add app from Gift Registry 360 allow you to update your gift registry at any time. If you see something you like, scan the barcode with your phone! The item will automatically appear on your registry and shared with your guests.

3. Use a Photo Booth that Tweets | Guests will have a blast with Keshot, a photo booth that uses an iPad for guests to sent their photos at your event to their personal social media accounts. You can also customize the photobooth background to your event’s specific needs, like adding a corporate logo. Everyone loves to share their photos online, so make it fun for them!

4. InstaContest | Have guests send their best photos of your live event to your event’s personal Instagram page. Your guests will vote with their “likes,” and the winner can receive a special party favor during the event! This is a great way to keep guests interested in the party and appreciate your beautiful decorations!

5. Tap a Thank-You | Instead of sending another e-card, use Felt, an iPad app that sends your hand-written cards to all your friends. Use the app to write or draw inside the card template and address the envelope. The card comes from the printer with your personal messages ready for delivery. This app is perfect for large events because it eliminates hand cramping after 500 thank-you notes!

How can you use social media for your next event? Let us know in a comment and on Facebook and Twitter!

It’s Summertime And The Livin’ Is Easy…With The Right Apps!

While all year long we often find ourselves on a daily fast-track, summer tends to make us even busier. Summer means vacations, weddings, Bootcamps, the end of the second quarter…the list goes on. Download these apps to keep things easy breezy!

1. Brewster│Brewster lends a helping hand to those of us trying to pack everything in this summer. After connecting with your contacts, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter, the app evaluates the level of interaction you have with each person. From there your contacts can be sorted into groups such as Favorites, Soccer Team, Kids’ Friends’ Parents, etc. Next time you need to let your bookclub know you’re running late or remind your siblings that it’s almost Father’s Day, Brewster can make it quick and easy!

2. Om Finder│Sometimes those hectic and unpredictable summer schedules can knock you off your routine. Missed your yoga class? Never fear, Om finder is here. Lululemon has produced an app that allows you to search for yoga, spinning, pilates, meditation, and every class in between. You can search by the type of activity, the studio, or teacher.

3. GAIN Fitness│Yoga and pilates not your thing? There’s another way to get yourself summer beach-body ready. The creators of the GAIN Fitness app know that you can’t always make it to the gym or your favorite running trail every day. Select your workout time, location, and, if you choose, what part of your body you want to target, and you can log each one as you go.

4. U.S. Beach Finder│One of the best parts of summer? Beach time. Whether it’s an ocean, lake, river, or otherwise, the U.S. Beach Finder app has you covered. The app will show you beaches near you or anywhere else in the country. Once you select a beach you can see the current and future weather forecast, temperature, UV index, current beach condition, and sunrise and sunset times.

5. Happy Houred│On a hot, busy summer day few things are as satisfying as a cold drink at a cheap price. Happy Houred will find you a happy hour based on your drink of choice, time, food, or a specific location. So if you’re in a hurry, don’t want to walk very far, or really want some hot n’ spicy wings, Happy Houred will find it for you.

Would you use any of these summertime apps? Tell us about it in the comments below or on Facebook & Twitter!

How To: Navigate the Bay like a Pro

In San Francisco, let’s face it: you’re always moving. Whether you’re meeting friends for drinks in the Mission or running after food trucks, this city forces a close relationship with your transportation of choice. No matter how you go, you need to go. ABCey’s favorite apps put you in control and in the know!

1. Corral Rides: Are you a fan of cab alternatives? Us too. Corral Rides is a new iPhone app that lets you see all of your transportation options in one easy list. Just input your location and destination and Corral Rides pulls up nearby options from Uber, SideCar, Lyft and even the bus schedule. You make your choice based on availability, pricing, and wait times. We love this app because it makes finding the cheapest and fastest way there almost effortless.

2. Park.it: Having a car in SF is great until you’ve spent thirty minutes scouring your block for a place to park. If parking in the city is the bane of your existence, Park.it can ease the pain. Park.it is an SF-only service that helps you find the nearest legal parking space before you even get to your destination. It’s even color-coded: green spots are free, yellow means metered (and shows the rate), and reds are no-go’s. Tapping on the spot you want shows the street cleaning time, any restrictions, and even the direction to curb your wheels. Say “goodbye” to tickets and tows!

3. Bikesy: Biking around the bay is a great way to get from A to B while getting in some exercise. If you feel the sometimes-impossible San Francisco hills (hint: Filbert St.) are better left avoided, check out Bikesy. Bikesy is a bay area bike mapper service that lets you input your bike route preferences, such as “Hill Reluctance” and bike lane availability. Happy riding!

4. Getaround: Are you planning the perfect weekend getaway but lacking the perfect weekend car? Using Getaround is like borrowing your buddy’s car for the weekend… if your buddies are all willing bay area car owners. Simply enter in how long you’ll need the car, select which car you want, and arrange the pick-up location with the owner. No need to worry about losing their keys while you’re off having- you can lock, unlock, and drive all with your iPhone.

5. Transporter: Transporter, dare we say, might be the first accurate bay area bus app. You can select your favorite lines or bus stops and Transporter will remember them for you every time you open the app. With the swipe of a screen, you can see when the next bus is (really) coming and track your route progress as you go. When you’ve been exploring the city and don’t quite know how to get home, Transporter’s ‘near-me’ tab will find the stops and lines closest to you. You’ll never have to click your heels three times again.

Do these apps or any others help you survive in San Francisco? Tell us at ABCey in the comments below! Or, share your favorite bay area insider tips on Facebook and Twitter.

Tech Tuesday: LIFX

White lights for the minimalists, blue lights for the thinkers, and red lights for the romantics. But you don’t have to stop there. At ABCey, we know just how important lighting it to setting the tone for any event. With LIFX, you can experiment with your basic colors and every shade in between, simply with a tap of the finger.

LIFX is basically the smartest, most versatile lightbulb you’ve ever seen in your life! Installed just like a regular lightbulb, the LIFX smartbulb is wifi-enabled so you can adjust its colors through your mobile device. Whether that means on your laptop or your smartphone, all you need to do is download the free app.

And, it gets even better! With LIFX, you can also adjust brightness and the timing of its brightness, meaning you can sleep to lights that automatically dim or wake up to self-increasing light. A fun feature it offers is music coordination, so you can put together your own light show in your own home or at an event!

LIFX does an excellent job of meshing creativity with user-friendliness. How do you control lighting at your events? Does LIFX do it all? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook & Twitter!

Tech Tuesday: The Vamp

Tangled wires, bulky cables, heavy soundboards? No thank you! We understand there’s a lot going on during an event and music is always a must. But, providing music at an event can quickly become complicated if you don’t have the funds to hire a professional DJ. Luckily, the new Bluetooth speaker The Vamp, makes this easier.

The Vamp gets its name in its mission to “Revamp” old speakers. In its most basic form, The Vamp is a sound receiver that is portable, stylish, and affordable for any event that is in need of a quick background music fix. The concept is simple: it connects to any speaker (old, new, small, or large) through an audio cable and plays music from the nearest Bluetooth device such as your smartphone or laptop.

The high quality of sound is not compromised by its low price and it supplies its own energy source with a built-in battery that eliminates an annoying external power chord. The tiny size also allows it to host special events or simply tag along to a friend’s house for a jam session. What we love most about The Vamp is the fact that its inner magnetic bottom allows it stick onto any metal surface – quirky and useful!

The Vamp is revamping not just old speakers, but also music production at events! What do you think about The Vamp? Will you be testing it out? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!