My Place, Your Space

he Port of Spain Central Lions Cultural Centre was first conceived over 40 years ago as a multipurpose centre for the citizens of Port of Spain replacing the Princess Building which had been destroyed, and at the same time providing funds to help the less fortunate in the Port of Spain area. In its 40 years of existence it has seen many changes but still remains a centre for use in the wider community.

From its inception it became very popular for dances, particularly at Carnival time. Today this is no longer the case as the carnival dances of today have more or less outgrown the Centre, which has a capacity for approximately 2,000 persons, and there are only a few all inclusive fetes.

The Port of Spain Central Lions Club which manages the Centre, recognizing the move away from the rental of the venue for dances and considering the complaints of our neighbors about the noises, we took the decision to concentrate on smaller functions such as seminars, graduation ceremonies, weddings, dinners, in house cook-outs etc., by providing the facilities for these, virtually creating a one stop shop.

Our packages include up to 500 padded chairs and slipcovers, 25 banquet tables and 40 straight tables all with table cloths, a fountain and a podium. Also, there are plant pedestals, a bridal arch, and a raised platform for the bridal party, screens, a variety of potted plants and “Princess Chairs, for the bride and groom. All of this comes with two security guards, and one armed.

The Centre itself has been redone with porcelain tiles on the wall and the floor. There are two drink bars, a food bar equipped with hot water and the already adequate ladies and gent’s toilets with toilet attendents have also been upgraded to first class standards.

The Garden has been fully landscaped, and well kept, with the addition of a gazebo to conduct ceremonies, a fountain and waterfall with a bridge over the fountain, which transforms the ideal photo backdrop for wedding photos.

Finally, we wish to remind the general public that in keeping with our constitution, all funds raised through the Centre goes back to the Community and not the Club.

New Upgrades Coming Soon!

For rental information contact (868) 623-7627 (ROAR) Fitzblackman Drive, Port of Spain P.O. Box 566

Event decor at private residence: Concept and Design by MacFarlane Design Studios

WOW! How time flies. We’re into our second issue of My Place Your Space and we’re just as excited this time around.

Wait ‘til you see the topics we have for you.

You know it is one thing to set up a banquet hall with all the amenities a client could possibly want. It is quite another to market it as the ideal place for prospective clients to host their events. To ensure that your venue is the first that comes to mind when the need arises, we are happy to help with, Banquet Hall Marketing Ideas

surprising to note that upgrading is not only about saving money and time, enticing clients and maintaining a certain image. It also delivers a great measure of satisfaction to see the old function like new again.

That is why this issue of My Place Your Space highlights upgrading your space - venues, amenities, indoor and outdoor spaces and appliances, not just for day-to-day use but for special functions.

Now, who doesn’t love the look, the feel and the smell of spanking new spaces, furnishings, furniture and appliances?

But there comes a time when the spanking new look, feel and smell evaporates with age and use. And while simply replacing the old with the new may seem like the easiest option, upgrading can be cheaper and more gratifying.

Many of us are already planning parties, dinners and Christmasthemed functions. Planning Christmas functions for staff can be tricky because of the diversity in the workplace. We have tips to help you pull it off without embarrassment to anyone.

Others are focused on planning, attending and celebrating weddings - joyous occasions indeed. However, we know how challenging it is to find the ideal venue and chose the theme, decorations, menu, seating, and so much more to make sure that these events are successful in every way.

Whether it is a public space (venue and facilities for others to use) or personal space (home, backyard or appliances), upgrading can be the best choice you make. It might be

If you have events planned for the coming months and in the New Year, you’ll find everything you need to make each of them a success, right here in My Place Your Space.

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Volume 13

No.2 2013

THE COMPLETE GUIDE FOR VENUES & VENDOR SERVICES

6 Paint can make a Quick Fix for the Holidays

7 Upgrade Your Event: How to Spot (and avoid) Boring Venues

8 Seven Tips for Choosing a Wedding Venue

12 Banquet Hall Marketing Ideas

10 At-Home Wedding Secrets

14 Before you Videotape a Wedding

16

18 What Appliances are Worth Upgrading?

Dividing Outdoor Areas by Function

19 Simple Ways to Personalize your Christmas Tree

24 Venues with Amenities Guide

Design & Layout: JG Design Caribbean Published by: Eureka Communications Limited Address: #9 Avenue First, Suite #2, St. James, Trinidad & Tobago Tel: •1 (868) 622-2017/628-1555 • Fax: 1 (868) 628-4475 E-mail: • contacteureka@yahoo.com • jgdesigns.davidson@gmail.com • lanny11@tstt.com • jasong@tstt.com • jgdesigns.janine@gmail.com

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22 Holiday Party-Planning in the Diverse Workplace

Contributors Cover Photo, Welcome Note photo & pg8 “Seven Tips for Choosing a Wedding Venue” photos: Courtesy MacFarlane Design Studios Welcome Note Editorial: Cheryl Wright

P R O F I L E

rian MacFarlane is living proof that creativity and passion breeds success. And the more creativity he wields, the more passion he expends and the more success he achieves, the further he pushes boundaries. It’s an exciting creative cycle and he is riding high and blazing trails.

Brian confessed that from an early age he believed that one day he would have his own carnival band. But before that materialized, his intrinsic sense of interior design moved him to mentally redesign and redecorate spaces when he visited family and friends with his parents. In fact, at age fifteen, with no experience or training and after only watching a friend decorate a cake, he did the same for his sister’s wedding with a 6- feet-high, 7-layer cake. The applause from guests and the kudos and compliments that followed, catapulted him into his future as a designer. He wasn’t surprised when interior design became his playground and his canvas for creative expression.

Event management and event planning eventually followed because the fields are closely related – taking ideas, creating

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visions and manipulating spaces to achieve a desired effect, atmosphere and aesthetic for a particular client or event. In time, the day arrived when his childhood dream became a reality. He burst on the scene with his own carnival band, cupping the top prize that first year.

As with most endeavours, the budget can drive and affect a project’s outcome. Despite this being one of the major challenges early in his career, plus the lack of understanding, appreciation, and respect in the Caribbean, for the intricacies involved, Brian has been able to create some of the most spectacular interiors and events locally, regionally and internationally. A creative genius can do that – take what he’s been given and far exceed his client’s expectations.

In his words, “Great performance, excellent quality and out of the box creativity, comes with a price. That is not to say that I no longer challenge my creativity on smaller scaled jobs but I applaud the opportunity to do things on a much grander scale. Having said all of this, the bottom line is creating abject beauty with the budget provided.”

Working with foreign clients, Brian Macfarlane has had to marshal his creativity, professionalism and experience in spite of cultural and theatrical restrictions. With resolve and dedication to his work, he saw attitudes change, courtesies extended and respect given. It’s not surprising then that he continues to attract honour and respect because of his lectures at universities and art societies in different countries. Happily, this “son of the soil” is not without honour in his own country.

Not only does he have fans and followers in his homeland and in the region, in August 2010, the Trinidad and Tobago government bestowed on him the prestigious Chaconia Medal Gold for Carnival Arts and Culture.

The Christmas season poses another challenge for Brian – finding the perfect venue to host events. But he is not one to buckle under such challenges. Time and again, he has proven that he can take a space that was not intended for hosting a particular type of event, and using innovative ideas, transform it into a memorable space with a difference.

Interior designer, event planner, event manager - Brian MacFarlane is all that, but he is a “mas man” at heart. He said that one of his main goals is to preserve the tradition and true spirit of carnival. He wants his work in this arena to reflect Trinidad's history with Carnival. So we asked him what’s next.

Although there has been a decline in recent times, due to the economic downturn, event planning and management is still “My next vision, hopefully, to be brought to reality (God an attractive field to enter. Brian agrees that anyone with an willing) is the creation of a state-of-the art carnivalesque interest can study and be certified in this area and succeed. production that encompasses the essence of the origins of our carnival characters. Being able to evoke the senses of However, he hastens to add, “Event planning and the audience through movement, music, magic and all the management has to be something that evolves from your special effects and stage sets that leaves one simply saying inner being, because you need to have that creative edge WOW! Once I have showed this first to my people of and that is not something that can be taught. It comes from Trinidad and Tobago to then take it on tour around the within.” world promoting my beautiful twin-island republic. That is my next goal.”

And it is that “something” that motivates him to approach every project with a view to excellence and the willingness God speed Brian. Continue to push borders and blaze trails. to do the hard work required to turn the vision into reality. We’re proud of you.

My desire for any event, grand or simple is to be assured that I have thoroughly understood my client's vision and that I not only bring that to fruition, but that I go beyond and take it to another level not expected either by client or audience. I push myself beyond the boundaries of creativity, striving always to be different. I give my all to every job, be it grand or simple. My belief is that true fulfilment can only come through hard work.

Before

After Mount St. Benedict Bicentennial Event, transformation of their ‘reflectory’ Concept and design by MacFarlane Design Studios pg 5

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Finding a venue can be a stressful part of planning any business event. It’s easy to fall back on the same stale bars and outdated hotel conference rooms because they’re plentiful and price-friendly. However, if you want your event to be remembered, you need to get creative.

It’s best to start off thinking of the vibe and size of event you plan on having.

Nothing sets the tone more than the venue, so whether you are going for fresh and urban, or sophisticated and formal, you should leverage the venue to help with the event positioning and feel the attendees walk away with.

As you think of your next venue, here are a few ideas to get you thinking outside the box.

Co-working space These unique spaces, which allow freelancers to ditch the home office and collaborate with others, make ideal spots for gatherings.

The spaces often boast open floor plans and are great for anything from teambuilding and think-tank events to socials.

Art galleries Consider placing your products next to other works of art.

With great lighting and space, galleries are ideal for high-end events or casual gatherings. You can also ask about private tours and viewings when booking to offer attendees an extra perk.

Fitness studios If your event is health or wellness related, consider this route.

Yoga, fitness studios and gyms may be interested in showcasing their spaces in order to attract new members.

Corporations Planning a charity event?

Schedule a meeting with the office or events manager at large corporations near you. These companies are often keen to open their doors for philanthropic purposes and there’s an added bonus – the facilities usually offer great views.

New spaces If you’re working with a location that is new to the neighbourhood, consider asking for the space for free or at a discount in exchange for marketing them in your pre-event communications and on social media.

The great outdoors Get outside and enjoy some under-utilized wide open spaces. Contact the ministry or corporation that oversees parks to find out what they offer. If you’re worried about catering, coordinate with a local food truck to provide popular, parkfriendly food for your attendees.

Adequate size The venue you choose must be the right size. The last thing you want is a space you could never fill or a room uncomfortably packed and overflowing with unhappy attendees.

Hit the mark on vibe and size, while thinking outside the box, and you’re sure to host a memorable event.

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Wedding reception at the Hyatt Regency: Concept and Design by MacFarlane Design Studios

Perhaps you recently got engaged and can’t wait to book your wedding venue – but do you really know what you’re looking for? Before you go dashing off to look at every venue in and around your area, here are some top tips you should consider first.

1. Communication is key Have a chat with your other half about the sort of wedding you would like and be prepared to compromise if you have different ideas. This could help avoid disagreements later.

Are you looking for a summer wedding in a marquee, a relaxed or contemporary barn wedding venue or a formal and elegant country house?

2. Civil ceremony or church wedding?

Deciding what type of ceremony you would like will highlight the area in which you should look for a wedding venue as your wedding reception venue should ideally be within a 20 - 25 minute radius of the church.

3. What’s your budget?

Working out a budget early on will help you to shortlist potential wedding venues. Wedding catering and alcohol normally take up quite a large chunk of your budget so remember to include it in your calculations.

4. What’s best for guests?

Don’t forget about guests travelling to your wedding. If you want to avoid incurring expensive taxi charges and hotel bills for them or for you, look for a wedding venue close to where the majority of your guests live. pg 8

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5. How many guests?

Get a rough idea of the number of guests before you start looking for a wedding venue or be prepared to alter your guest list. This could avoid the disappointment of choosing a beautiful wedding venue only to find out it is too big/small to accommodate your guests.

6. Your wedding date If you’ve decided on a date for your wedding and it’s set in stone, check the availability of that date before you visit potential venues. Of course, if you’re flexible about the day of the week, month, or even the year of your wedding you’ll have a much wider choice of venues.

7. Seek expert advice Based on their training, expertise and experience, wedding planners can help you choose the perfect venue. Share your vision and requirements, ask for their advice and they will search for a venue that will make your wedding dreams come true.

Weddings are joyous occasions. If you take the time to find the ideal venue you can be sure that it will be perfect and memorable.

There’s nothing quite like an at-home wedding, but the odds are your childhood homestead isn't quite prepared for 150 guests, 75 cars, 20 waiters, 15 tables, and 1 happy couple. Although it may be more work (and expense) than you anticipated, you won't regret saying your vows in the familiar and personal surroundings. It's all about being prepared.

Assess your space If you plan to use your outdoor space, a turn of bad weather will force you to move everyone indoors. Will there be enough to set up chairs with a wide enough aisle? The general rule is 6 -10 square feet of floor space per guest. If there is not enough room for everyone, you'll have to trim the list.

Get help You may be too close to see the big picture but a wedding coordinator can provide a fresh perspective on how to prepare the space. You will also need help with the basics: setting up, cooking, serving, parking cars and cleaning up.

Make a impression Even if you’re not having a garden wedding, you’ll want your yard to be in peak form. Prep it yourself or hire a landscaper to give your lawn and garden a manicured look. Make sure that plants and flowers have enough time to get ready to shine on the big day.

Find the right officiant Some churches do not recognize weddings performed outside pg 10 MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

of their premises. So give yourself enough time to find a licensed officiant who will do the honors.

Arrange guest accommodation Unless you're marrying in a mansion, the only people staying at your home should be the homeowners and their immediate family (the bride or the groom, other siblings). Recommend or reserve rooms at a nearby hotel.

Install a generator Most homes can't accommodate the extra power needed to light a tent or feed a catering kitchen. At least 6 months in advance, rent a generator to provide power for extra equipment.

Level the ground You don't want chairs, tables and the dance floor on uneven ground. Tent companies can ascertain if they need to install a foundation or lay a dance floor directly on the ground.

Make sure that other vendors take steps to prevent the cake table, floral arrangements and musical equipments from tipping over.

Get party permits Avoid any interruption to your wedding. Ask an electrician to inspect your system to be sure it can accommodate the increased demands. Check if you need permission or permits for above-normal noise levels or additional street parking.

Provide Port-A-Potties A general rule of thumb is – 1 bathroom for every 35 guests and 3 bathroom trips each. Most household systems can't handle that many flushes, plus guests will need a place to wash their hands and do mirror checks. Rent portable bathrooms and keep the area well-lit. If available, choose those that come with lighting, sinks, heated water, and even air-conditioning. Just make sure that you supply the usual toiletries.

Save on decorations You can save money using your home’s best features, furnishings and personal possessions as decorations. Different centerpieces and mix-and-match vases will add a homey feel. Home-grown flowers and creative do-it-yourself outdoor lighting will help create a stunning atmosphere.

Have a Plan B Unexpected weather can pose unique challenges. Plan for guests to be covered in the event of a sudden downpour. If you cannot accommodate a tent for the ceremony, arrange to have the ceremony at a house of worship in case of rain.

Remember to insert in each invitation, the alternate address and contact number for guests to find out if the ceremony has moved. If a tent is your Plan B, make sure it has sides to keep out driving rain. Stifling heat can pose equal problems.

Ensure that chairs aren't in direct sunlight and there are plenty of shaded areas, cool drinks, and hand fans available.

You could also bring in extra electric fans and portable air conditioners.

Inform your neighbours Tell your neighbours about your wedding plans and ask if they'd offer their driveways for extra parking space. But don’t depend on them completely. Make sure there's adequate street parking, or arrange for guests to park on nearby property (empty lot, school or church). You could offer a shuttle service if parking is too far from your home.

Verify insurance coverage Your home may take a bit of a beating from a wedding. Does your homeowner’s insurance cover third-party liability?

Could you get a supplemental policy? Also, ask vendors if they have their own insurance policies. Having a wedding at home is a wonderful idea. Plan carefully and you'll have a treasure throve of memories to cherish.

Special thanks to Lindsay Landman of Lindsay Landman Events in New York, and Richard Goldstein, president of Green Meadows Landscape Contractors in Oakland, NJ. MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

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Banquet hall marketing is a little different than typical marketing. For starters, your target audience is tightly defined: couples looking to get married, businesses for meetings and groups that want to host fundraiser events, dances or banquets. It is very important to include visuals because with banquet halls people will want to see what they are getting. The better your marketing efforts are, the more tours and tastings you will be doing to showcase your venue.

1. Host an Open House When you start a banquet hall business, it is important to get people in the door. The best way to market your venue is by showing it off. Choose a weeknight or a Sunday afternoon and host an open house. Invite people to come tour your venue, sample your food and get more information on holding events at your banquet hall. If you decide on a week night, you can include a free dinner buffet to show off your food. On a Sunday afternoon, it is best to go with appetizers. Either way, keep it casual, let people come in, look around, taste food, mingle and ask your staff questions.

2. Attend Expos For the specific wedding target audience, attend bridal expos - hand out brochures, take samples of your food, have photo albums on display to show off your venue to everyone who comes to your booth. You can get a lot of leads and tours out of bridal expos. Even better, a lot of these leads can turn into clients.

3. Use Direct Mail Think about your ideal client and create a direct mailing piece geared specifically towards them. If you want to target businesses and entice them to host their meetings at your banquet hall, then send them direct mail pieces. Don’t forget to include your lunch menu options as well as the presentation equipment that businesses will find useful for meetings. If you plan to target couples to host their weddings, then consider using models and a professional photographer to stage photos of weddings at your facility. Highlight features that will appeal to couples - buffet and sit-down dinner options, wedding pg 12 MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

decorations or custom decorating service and shuttle service to area hotels.

4. Partner Up The event planning business is big so it is a good idea to partner with other professionals in your area to offer packaged deals.

For example, you could partner with a photographer, a DJ or an event planner to offer couples an all-in-one wedding package.

5. Offer Specials There are always times when business is slow in the banquet hall business. It is a good marketing strategy to offer specials during those times. Offer a seasonal discount during the slow periods - entice business meetings, fundraising events or school parties and concerts during the time when you get few request for weddings. Additionally, since not many people get married on weekdays, offer a wedding package discount on week-day weddings year-round.

6. Start a Blog Use free marketing strategies such as a company blog. Give tips on how to plan a perfect wedding, how to hire a photographer or a DJ, and how to choose centerpieces.

By giving away free information, you will establish yourself as an expert and build a trusted brand. When someone does have an event, they will want to put it in your hands, since you are so knowledgeable. Always include photographs of your venue on the blog. If you want your banquet hall to be the first venue prospective clients think of, begin implementing these ideas.

You won’t be disappointed.

When you plan to videotape a wedding for a friend, a little pre-planning can go a long way. Here are some tips for shooting wedding videos that will make it look like it was done by a professional photographer.

Be prepared Charge your camcorder battery the night before the wedding and test your camcorder to make sure everything is in working condition. A backup battery is a good idea to ensure that you have enough power for the entire wedding ceremony and reception. You should also bring at least one more tape than you think you will need. It is better to have too much video tape than not enough.

Arrive early Find out from the bride and groom when the church will be open and try to arrive at least thirty minutes before guests begin filing in. If you are not familiar with church, use the extra time to reserve a seat for yourself at the back of the church where you can get a good view of everything.

Bring a tripod The bride and groom, and your arms will thank you for bringing a tripod to the wedding with you. Weddings can be long, and as your arm gets shaky your video will start to get shaky as well. If you do not have a tripod make sure to source one well in advance of the wedding.

White balance your camcorder Nothing is worse than shooting a great wedding video only to find out that the video is too dark or the bride’s dress is blue instead of white. White balance your camcorder before the wedding ceremony and the reception by zooming in on a white surface and pressing the white balance button on your camcorder.

Capture memories at the reception Important parts of the wedding to record are the bride and groom’s first dance, the toast, and the cutting of the wedding cake. When you arrive at the reception talk to the DJ or wedding planner about when each event is planned to occur.

During the reception you may want to record special messages pg 14 MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

from the guests to the couple as well as the decorations and gifts.

Edit the video Editing a wedding video is generally pretty simple. Most couples simply want their entire ceremony un-cut so that they can look back and enjoy every planned and unplanned moment. You could also create a music video of clips from the wedding and reception set to the couple’s favorite song as a wedding video special feature.

Videotaping a wedding and reception brings a whole new dimension and significance not only to the event but to the memory. And you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you helped to create that living memory for the couple.

HOW TO WHITE BALANCE YOUR CAMCORDER White balance your camcorder whenever you enter a new lighting situation. For instance if you walk inside your house from outside, or move from a dark room to a room filled with sunlight then you will want to white balance to ensure your video is the best it can be. White balancing your camcorder is easy to do.

Here's How: 1. Most camcorders will have a white balance button, or a menu option for white balance. Read through your camcorders manual and determine where your camcorders white balance button is.

2. Next, find something in the room around you that is white.

Most professional videographers will carry around a white card with them in their camera bag; if you do not have a white card you can use a white wall or a white piece of paper. Anything that is totally white in the room will work.

3. Zoom your camcorder into the white so that is all you see in the viewfinder.

4. Press the white balance button.

hen his wife Indra fell ill before a wedding cake decorating course, Narandradath Jaikaran stepped in. He was surprised to discover that his engineering experience, which involved tooling and a technical approach to machinery and construction, could be applied to making fabulous wedding cakes. So, after 25 years as a Mechanical Engineer with a Bsc (UWI) and an MBA (UWI) and 5 years working in Barbados, he decided to retool himself to enter the wedding cake business.

With property he bought from his wife’s uncle, a bakery proprietor with dreams of his own, they opened the doors to Classic Bakes Bakery 2001, with much fanfare and rave reviews followed. Not long after opening, the price of progress (the extension of the Solomon Hochoy Highway to Golconda) dealt a devastating blow, causing them to cut staff, conduct business from a tent and eventually close the bakery at the end of the year. While others may have crumbled beneath the collapse of their dreams, this couple didn’t. They were disappointed, saddened and devastated, but the dream didn’t die.

Mr. Jaikaran returned to engineering consultancy work, taking a permanent job in training and development. However, in 2003 he was back in business again with the reopening of the road and consequently bakery.

With the burning desire to enter the wedding cake business and after completing some local training he was on his way. However, still wanting to lift the bar he and his wife travelled to Canada to tap into the knowledge, expertise and practices of a reputable Wilton teacher, and then to London where he enrolled for a wedding cake course at the Squires Kitchen International Bakery School with Chef Griffith.

Armed with this knowledge of the latest techniques, wedding cake flavours, tools and machinery, this bakery now offers cutting edge designs in wedding cakes and other intricate celebrity cakes.

Mr. Jaikaran shared one of his most unusual and challenging cake stories: “I did a cake for one of the main casino companies. They wanted the cake to look like the reception entrance to the casino. It took 13 cakes to complete the masterpiece. I had to engineer cakes standing vertically on edge as the reception wall and used woodwork and wood dowels to build a support structure. Yes this was challenging. I was at the Xmas party and did not rest comfortably until late into the night when the party was almost over.”

Despite the ongoing challenge of rising prices for ingredients, their greatest delight is making “home-made cakes”. Mr. Jaikaran is proud of the fact that their cakes are made from scratch with no commercial mixes or chemical cocktails and they are tastier, healthier and freshly made.

He boasts that their currants roll is the real thing - no mixed fruits or raisins. They also enjoy making Italian breads with no added sugar or butter, which is excellent for the healthconscious customer. In addition to their main production centres, they keep expanding.

In addition to expanding with 5 other outlets in the south and hoping to take their products to central and northern customers, Mr. Jaikaran is constantly improving his craft. Clients can enjoy the benefit of having an experienced Engineer, now turned Wedding Cake Chef, who has the most up-to-date international cake training and is offering the best in wedding cakes, specially made with intricate designs for any occasion.

Address:#86 Cipero Road, Retrench, San Fernando • Tel: (868) 653-2032/302-8083/787-1697 • Email: ijaikaran@gmail.com

Public spaces. Depending on where you live and your lifestyle, the front yard can be a busy place where children play and people wave to neighbors from their front porch.

Alternatively, they can be neutral buffer zones with little activity except the daily mail delivery, as the occupants spend most of their time in the house or back yard. Either way, the front yard creates a first impression and should reflect the look and feel of the rest of the property.

Outdoor kitchen. An outdoor kitchen should be situated so that diners are seated upwind from smoke and fumes, which you also don't want wafting toward the house. Go for weather-resistant materials like concrete, stone, solid surface and stainless steel for counters. Such amenities as a refrigerator, wine cooler, sink and gas-fired burners require electrical, gas and water hook-ups. However, a propane or charcoal grill is simpler to maintain. Don’t forget cooking and prep areas, which benefit from task lighting.

Living and dining areas. Fire pits, outdoor eating areas, grills and seating are all top-rated outdoor living features, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects.

Built-in wall benches and garden pots can be used for seating as they are the ultimate weather-proof furniture. Just be sure to stow the cushions, even if they are made of weather-proof fabric. If you opt to bring your technology outdoors, wireless Internet and stereo speakers are less hassle and maintenance than hard-wired systems.

Recreation areas. If you have pets or children make room for them to run around and play. These areas should be fenced to prevent unauthorized roaming and have at least partial shade. Play structures require a soft floor such as recycled rubber-surfacing material or shredded bark mulch.

Aquatic areas should be enclosed with a fence that has a self-closing, self-latching gate. pg 16 MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

Nooks. "Hide and reveal" is an important concept in planning an interesting garden, says Pete Marsh, a landscape designer with Buck & Sons in Columbus, Ohio. "You want to create spaces where you can't see everything all at once; you're forced to travel through the garden landscape in order to experience different spaces." A winding foot path might lead to an alcove hidden among bushes, where a perfect garden bench awaits. Even if rarely used, such private spaces are often garden favorites.

Service and work areas. Just as every house needs a store room for all those things you use but don’t want to see every day, every yard needs a discreet but accessible spot to store garbage bins, gardening equipment and landscaping materials.

If the garage isn't an option, a locking shed offers protection from the elements and thieves. A lattice corral or two can

easily hide a compost bin, trash cans or bags of mulch. Wellplaced shrubs further camouflage these mundane storage areas.

Outdoor space is no longer, just outdoor space.

With careful planning you can create and enjoy it as an additional living space – a well designed and relaxing extension of your indoor living space.

Adding Interest to Outdoor Spaces Just as any good poker player would never let you see all their cards up front, the same should hold true for your landscape design. Pete Marsh, a landscape designer with Buck & Sons in Columbus, Ohio, believes in the concept of "hide and reveal": “You want to create spaces where you can't see everything all at once; you're forced to travel through the garden landscape in order to experience different spaces.”

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Most appliances have made a lot of energy-saving leaps over the years, so you're in the right to consider replacing some of them. In fact, some smaller appliances, like old vacuum cleaners, are less efficient and put more dust into the air than new ones. It's estimated that on average, appliances account for 13 percent of your household's energy cost, so cutting the energy usage will often save you money in the long run. With that in mind, let's take a look at some of the common household appliances that might be showing their age, and whether or not you may benefit from an upgrade or simply a little maintenance.

Air Conditioner Both central and room air conditioners are well known to suck energy in high temperatures. The efficiency of a room air conditioner is rated by an energy efficiency ratio (EER), and the higher the number the more efficient the air conditioner is. Most modern retail air conditioners get a 10 EER rating, where older ones from the 1990’s rate closer to an EER of 7. You can usually find your EER rating in your manual if you still have it or on a sticker on the side.

If those are long gone, you can search the manufacturer's site to find it.

Would maintenance accomplish the same goal? pg 18 MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

Maintenance can help an older air conditioner, but it won't keep the energy usage numbers as low as a modern one.

However, replacing filters, cleaning coils, and managing ducts will all help to decrease your bill.

Dishwashers Modern Energy Star dishwashers use an average of 5.8 gallons of water per cycle, while older ones can use as much as 10 gallons per cycle. The newer dishwashers are also a bit quieter and clean better.

are covered, because uncovered foods release moisture, which causes the compressor to kick on more often.

Washers Older washing machines have a topload feature, but new models are much more efficient with their front-load feature, which uses around 50 percent less water and 37 percent less energy.

Water Heaters Your water heater can amount to 14-25 percent of the appliance energy consumed in your home. Naturally, newer models are much more efficient.

Would maintenance accomplish the same goal?

Unless you completely change the type of water heater you're using, yes. You can increase efficiency on an older water heater by insulating the outside of the tank. If you have a gas water heater, you should also drain a gallon from the valve on the bottom once a month to remove sediment.

Refrigerators Refrigerators have seen big efficiency bumps since 2000 and the standard refrigerator now uses 40-60 percent less energy than models sold before then.

With that said, refrigerators with the freezer on the top are more efficient than side-by-side models.

Would maintenance accomplish the same goal? No. The best you can do is ensure that your current refrigerator is kept between 37 and 40 degrees. You can also make sure all foods and liquids

Dryers Energy Star doesn't rate dryers because their efficiency has been about the same across the board for years and is dependent on the quality of the washing machine cycle that happens before the clothes are put in the dryer. Would maintenance accomplish the same goal?

Regular dryer maintenance will keep your dryer from breaking and heat clothes a little quicker, which can save you a little money. On top of cleaning the lint trap after every load, vacuum the area below the lint trap periodically as well. This can decrease the dry time, which will save you a few dollars every month.

Buying new appliances may seem the easier option. However, don’t rush to buy appliances without weighing the cost of upgrades.

ecorating the Christmas tree is so much more than pulling last year’s decorations from the store room.

It’s about creating a unique style that you and your family will celebrate throughout the season.

Any personal style can be made festive and joyous. Even with space constraints, you can be inspired by these decorating ideas and energize your space!

Modern Red and green will always be the signature colors of the season, but it’s okay to experiment with a new palette.

Welcome royal purple and red for instance. Yes, they work well together. Add a little gold or silver shimmer and you’ve got the Christmas spirit. The colour palettes for this season are versatile and exciting, from ruby red to bright fuchsia and aubergine. Step out of your comfort zone and experiment.

Whimsical For a playful approach, call on the kids to trim the tree.

Afraid it might get a little over-the-top? Simply encourage them to focus on one theme - like a safari - and then let them go wild. A trip to the toy store for small animal toys is all it takes. What about those baby shoes, long outgrown?

Sentimental keepsakes are perfect as Christmas tree decorations. Just add small glass balls and ribbon to anything from a photo in a small frame to baby’s first spoon.

Sophisticated Small space dwellers can have just as much creativity when decorating a mini tree. Focus on a palette that’s rich and unpredictable like gold, royal blue, and yellow. Use silk flowers instead of traditional Christmas balls with gold and silver ribbon made into bows in between.

Elegant If you’ve committed to sticking with a metallic, then it is important to make it really shine. In addition to the typical silver balls and bells, work in unexpected charmers, fun shapes, and unusual objects. Decorate your Christmas lunch table with a large glass punch bowl filled with Christmas balls.

Who needs a Yule log? We like to change drapery and curtains for Christmas, but just change the throw pillows on your sofa for ones in a coordinated Christmas fabric, just for the season.

You will be surprised how different the space will seem.

Traditional Add some coloured bulbs and ribbon to Grandma’s vintage ornaments to make them really special. Start a new tradition by purchasing a Christmas ornament every time you travel.

Your tree will be full of fond memories that will stimulate “remember when” stories and conversation and they also can also be passed down to your children.

By Candice Roberts, New Vibes Past Treasures Furniture & Accessories

As we pull ornaments out each year, memories of the past and hopes for the future come with them. They herald in the holidays and help us to celebrate old traditions and start new ones. If you need ideas for redecorating your home, look no further for inspiration and advice, clever design tips and ideas. Join “New Vibes Past Treasures” on Facebook or visit our showroom and have a chat with our interior designers and furniture specialists at 31 Carlos St. Woodbrook.

MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

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By Heidi LaFleche, Monster Contributing Writer

Holiday Party-Planning Tips Companies are diverse communities of cultures and religious beliefs. Sondra Thiederman, PhD. workplace diversity consultant, author of Making Diversity Work and founder of Cross-Cultural Communications offers these tips to help you avoid leaving anyone out in the cold at a holiday party.

• Include a welcome statement: Encourage the CEO, President or Regional Manager - whoever's hosting the bash - to recognize the company’s diversity from the microphone. In giving the welcome speech, the host should acknowledge the company’s diversity and sound a celebratory note for how it engenders togetherness.

• Keep decor non-specific: Sorry, Santa, it’s a “holiday party” now. But that doesn't mean it has to be somber. Deck the halls with neutral symbols such as flowers, balloons, candles and snowflakes. Don't try to do the Christmas tree and the menorah and symbols from every culture.

• Accommodate diverse palates: Got tofu? It's not as flaky as carnivores may think. Vegetarian choices are a safe and yummy way to accommodate diverse dietary needs and beliefs. “The respectful way to hold a banquet is to offer vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices,” says Thiederman.

• Appeal to everyone with golden oldies: Tunes can be tough, as individuals within families (let alone companies and cultures) can have vastly different tastes. Anything too genre or culture-specific may strike a sour note. To make everyone happy, Thiederman suggests going back in time. “Try historical music, the big bands and sounds of the 40’s. It’s less of a hot button than if you play rap, and have no Christmas carols.” pg 22 MY PLACE YOUR SPACE

Quick tip: Don't mix religion with business celebrations “Holiday-time diversity used to mean just adding a Hanukkah menorah to the decorations,” says Michael Hyter, president and CEO of diversity and inclusion consultant Novations/ J. Howard & Associates. “Employers must be sensitive to the religious beliefs of their employees and create more flexible celebrations to include all of them.”

He offers these tips: • Avoid Secret Santa and anonymous employee gift exchanges. An innocent stocking stuffer could inadvertently cause discomfort or offense (e.g., a Muslim receiving a Christmas angel).

• Don’t focus just on Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.

These can conflict with Ramadan or Divali.

• Alcohol can make some Christians and non-Christians uncomfortable. Offer alternatives.

• Get wide input from your employees on holiday planning.

Ask as many groups as possible.

• Allow employees to opt out of company holiday events without penalty or negative connotation.

• Let non-Christian employees offer company-sanctioned alternatives, but don't make them mandatory.

Does your company employ staff from diverse backgrounds, customs and beliefs? Make sure that in the season of peace and goodwill to all, you do not insult, embarrass or alienate anyone at corporate Christmas functions.

My Place Your Space Venues with Amenities Guide Venues Names, Address & Contact Info

Function Room Names & Function Types

Amenities Offered

LE GRANDE ALAMANDIER #2, Hosang Street, Grand Riviera, Toco E-mail: info@legrandealamandier.com Phone: 670-1013/670-2299

La Chateau Restaurant • Restaurant occupancy 50 persons • Private dinners • Roof-top available for outdoor & private dining • Indoor and outdoor wedding 100 persons • Sea bathing, hikes, & turtle watching

• Safe car parking • Child care services • Picnic baskets can be provided for hikes and picnics.

• Internet service available

DREW MANOR Office: 1-868-676-2083 Email: info@drewmanor.com Website: www.drewmanor.com Facebook: Drew Manor Trinidad Video: https://vimeo/com/65682048

Drew Manor can accommodate the following: • 350 persons seated • 650-750 cocktail • 1200 standing Maximum number of persons may vary based on event space used and layout

• Secured parking - 300 cars • Luxury trail six seater golf cart • Wheel chair access ramps • Emergency lighting • Fire alarm systems

• Meeting and retreat events are hosted in the fully air conditioned Samaan Room • Sporting facilities: field and tennis court TRINITY COLLEGE LIMITED 1 College Avenue, Trincity Central Road, Trincity Phone: 640-8685 ext 1812 Email: facilities@ba-tc.com

Spaces Available at Trinity College Limited: • Classrooms, Computer Labs, Meeting Rooms, Café, Conference Rooms, Football Field, Tennis Court, Courtyard and Auditorium

• Secured compound and well maintained, outfitted with modern furniture, and technologically up to date equipment.

• Rentals are available: Over-head projectors, whiteboard, & technical support

CIPRIANI COLLEGE OF LABOUR AND CO-OPERATIVE STUDIES Churchill Roosevelt Highway, Valsayn Phone: 662-5014

CLR James Auditorium • Cultural shows, Plays & Concerts Uriah Butler Wing • Workshop, Meetings and Banquets Cola Renzi Wing • Workshop, and Meetings Grounds • Family days, Sporting events

• All rooms are private • Table and chairs • Secure parking

PORT OF SPAIN LIONS CIVIC CULTURAL CENTRE Wrightson Road, Port of Spain Phone: 627-7627

The Centre • Upgraded stairways, and bathroom facilities • All seating arrangements can be accommodated • Dinners 200-300 persons • Cultural shows, Parang competitions, Product launch, Cocktail, Receptions, Carinval fetes 2000 persons

• Secured parking • Table and chairs • Table cloths are provided with each function.

ANCHORAGE BEACH CLUB Western Main Road, Chaguaramas E-mail: info@anchoragett.com Phone: 634-4334

• Corporate Functions/ Parties, Dinners, Weddings, Media Launch, Car Shows and Dragon Boat

• Table and chairs available • Car parking • Bathroom attendants

THE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CHAMBER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE Columbus Circle, Westmoorings Contact: Mr. Eustace Pierre Email: epierre@chamber.org.tt Phone: 637-6966

Duncan Campbell Meeting Room Leon Agostini Conference Hall • Corporate Functions, Parties, Weddings, Business/Board Meetings, Product Launches, Cocktail Receptions and more

• 10% discount for all Chamber Members • Tables and chairs inclusive of rental • Catering services available • Audio visual available • Secured parking • Available weekdays and weekends

BHF Ltd Bedding Campaign Embrace your style and express it! We’ll help you find the look that you want to come home to. Come, explore your style, your taste and express who you are with us. Online only Website coming soon!

• Quality Bed Linen Collections as well as Bath Luxury Linens can be found, available for purchase, in our Cozy Bath Luxury Album and Accessories. Can be found in the Light’em Up Album.

www.facebook.com/BeddingCampaign Call: 498-4153

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