2010 was a remarkable year. “In a good way or a bad way?” you ask… “Yes.” I reply.

As I make this first blog entry of 2011, there are literally innumerable topics and events I could write about. So why am I writing about this…? Honestly, I’m not sure; except that it’s foremost in my mind at the moment.

For starters, I’d love acknowledge a few recent accomplishments. It’s funny how you can plug along all year and not see much progress. In retrospect, 2010 was a very strong year for me professionally, and it’s rewarding to see how many professional goals I was able to reach!
: I enjoyed speaking at a record number of industry meetings and conferences
: For the 2nd year in a row, I received a nomination for an Orlando WOW Award
: I gave back… more
: Advanced to Accredited Bridal Consultant(tm)

I could continue the list but it’s not my intention to compile a CV. My intention is to illustrate this point: While many goals were met (quite triumphantly!), I also encountered many obstacles (stepping stones), challenges (opportunities), and disappointments (reality checks). It was not the easiest year for business owners, such as myself; it was a physical, emotional and financial roller coaster ride – to say the least! Of course this comment flies in the face of certain conventions, but I place a high value on honesty.

And this is where things get interesting: I learned some incredible lessons. I gained some amazing insights. I met some inspirational people.

Arlene Blake, Elisa, Kerline Docteur, Heather Snively

One such experience centered around the ABC’s annual conference. During that conference I was slated to present my portfolio of work and experience to advance to Master Bridal Consultant. For whatever reason, things did not work out for me in that respect. Instead of being advanced to Master-level, I was advanced to Accredited-level. I was disappointed, feeling that I had proven my skills and credentials . However, the significance of the situation quickly became evident and my focus shifted from what I did not receive to what I did receive: the support of my peers. I was buoyed in particular by three Master Bridal Consultants – Lisa Burnett, Heather Snively and Brigid Horne-Nestor – who reached out to me and shared words of encouragement. Longstanding friends and associates also cheered me up with kind words. In the end, I took away a much more valuable experience. Without question, I will become a Master Bridal Consultant, but in the interim, I am content to appreciate the many wonderful friendships I’ve forged.

inspiration

I also mentioned previously that one of my events was nominated for a WOW Award! This was quite a thrill, but {insert sigh…} unfortunately a colleague took home the trophy. I am determined to keep trying though; I will stay the course! (ha-ha)

It is because of last year that I’m excited about this year! I’m working with wonderful clients, I’ve set new goals and I’m looking forward to every new opportunity – even if it comes disguised as an impossible situation.

The road leading to a goal does not
separate you from the destination;
it is essentially a part of it. ~Charles DeLint

I don’t even know where to begin…. I’m feeling pretty badly about the fact that my blog is withering in the corner like an unwatered plant! It’s certainly not for the lack of things to write about…. It’s actually just the opposite.

During the past six to eight weeks I’ve had the pleasure of working on some really spectacular projects! I spent a number of weeks working with the Director of Events at the Rosen College of Hospitality Management assisting with the development of the 2009 Grande Hospitality Gala. It was very exciting to be invited back as Assistant to the Event Producer, as I had a phenomenal time assisting with the 2008 Grande Gala!

Fall wedding season is keeping me quite busy! I was fortunate to squeeze in a post on an event that took place early in October. Subsequently, I’ve been posting little blurbs on Facebook regarding my recent adventures with weddings and events.(Be sure to check out the A Flair for Affairs fan page if you are active on Facebook!)

During October I was also busy planning a wonderful event for the Central Florida members of ABC. With the help of my ABC LNG Co-Director, Kerline Docteur, we organized a luncheon at Casa Feliz and had the privilege of having Rebecca Grinnels, President of Engaging Concepts as our guest speaker! She gave an outstanding presentation to our group and I continue to receive raves about her and endless compliments on the event. It was a great day! (I could’ve and should’ve written a full blog on this alone, but alas, the days just keep flying by!… I may try to recap it more completely after I catch up…).

ISES’s monthly event was held at IKEA in October; the event centered on a Table Top Design Competition using preselected IKEA merchandise and featured well known ISES member Ira Steiman as our speaker. Teams of ISES members and guests created about a dozen amazing tablescapes which were judged by the IKEA managers. It was an incredible treat to be part of an event that has NEVER been done before!

Looking forward to December, there is a huge industry luncheon on the horizon…! I’ve been attending committee meetings for this event on behalf of ISES and ABC and I’m really excited about the holiday theme that’s taking shape! This event will take place at the stunning Ginn Reunion Resort on Dec. 4th – can’t wait!

Let’s see… Let’s see… what am I leaving out…? I think I forgot to mention the chihuahua puppy (!) who joined our family about 5 weeks ago. His name is Baci – which I believe means ‘kisses’ in Italian. He’s the cutest little thing and seems to be adjusting to his new life; overall he’s been quite good and we love him!

Whew! – I’m suddenly feeling much better!

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

There has always been a list…

When I was younger, it was in the form of a large grid that existed on the side of the fridge. It divided the household chores and displayed the daily responsibilities of each family member: feed the dog, clean the bathroom, fold the laundry, practice piano, etc. It mapped out 7 days x 7 people – this was an organizational feat and weekly project for my mother. To say it was helpful would be an understatement; we would’ve been lost without it.

I started honing my list making skills in my late twenties. Back then they were mostly used to help me focus on goals and project related to-do’s. In my thirties, list making became more a part of my daily routine… I was a mommy, a homeowner and entrepreneur, so there was quite a bit to keep track of… much more than could be easily organized into the little boxes on the wall calendar. So about 10 years ago, I began logging my lists into spiral bound notebooks.

Eventually I purchased a PDA to help manage my daily activities and synchronize appointments, but I still rely on my notebook with it’s handwritten to-do lists, reminders and goals to chart my course and track my progress.

These days lists rule my world and my notebook is indispensable. At times I’m unsure whether this is more reflective of my age or the age we live in. It seems that we are busier than ever (“crazy busy” – to coin a phrase), sometimes overwhelmed and often distracted. I often say “I need a score card to keep up”! I remember a recent situation where I became quite upset with myself because I forgot something really important when I went out of town for a business conference. I started to wonder if I was was losing my edge, and why my list had failed me! However, the reality of the situation was that there were just too many stressors: hurricane rains, school closings, salon appointments, packing and various other preparations which contributed to short circuiting my careful planning. Sometimes stuff just happens… we live and learn, and do our best to keep up.

The other day I was straightening the den and came across a list my daughter had typed and printed. “Aww! What’s this?” I said, feeling so proud – apparently she does take after me! Then I read it… it said (word for word):

1. play a couple of games
2. make brownies
3. watch movie (half)
4. stop movie eat brownies
5. finish movie
6. chillax
7. start getting ready for bed

Underneath the list was a big happy face.

I didn’t have to look in my notebook to know that there wasn’t a happy face at the bottom of any one of my lists… So, I am going to tape my daughter’s list to the fridge as a reminder to make time for some fun stuff. Yep – kids sure can teach us a lot about life.

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

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Flashback to ISES GIVES BACK – 2007
Elisa with J.Michael Hicks, Derek Eaton and Jason Gabel
Courtesy: Christie’s Photographics

ISES GIVES BACK – It all began as a group of ISES friends came together to help a hardworking woman in the midst of some tragic circumstances. Quickly, many members of the special events industry also stepped forward to assist, and created this event. “ISES GIVES BACK – A Party for A Purpose” succeeded in raising critical funds that helped stabilize the recipient’s financial situation. In addition to generous support and contributions from local friends and associates, The SEARCH Foundation also provided a significant donation.

ISES GIVES BACK 2 – 2008
Courtesy: Elisa Delgardio

ISES GIVES BACK 2 – 2008
Courtesy: Christie’s Photographics