Family Affair Plans a Bash for Less Cash
Whether you’re throwing a big bash for 200 or a Sweet-16 party for 20, the ideal way to go about it is to let the professionals take over.
But most professional party coordinators are expensive and intimidating outfits that cater to the very rich. Nevertheless, my intrepid researchers have uncovered a group of young, energetic, creative and affordable party designers who charge much less than most in the field.
Jane Frischer and R. C. Safran at A Family Affair have been giving successful parties for many years while working for other firms. Eventually, they formed their own company, and in less than two years got so many referrals that now they have an impressive list of credits.
One San Fernando Valley woman who was throwing a large bar mitzvah, after being quoted $3,200 by one firm, was delighted when A Family Affair did the job for $1,500. That price included centerpieces for 15 tables, the sign-in book, several hundred balloons and a large backboard over the band area emblazoned with the honoree’s name.
Another woman was thrilled when Family Affair did the huppah for her daughter’s wedding at a Beverly Hills hotel for $1,100, instead of the $2,000 bid by another firm. Frischer and Safran used 250 yards of tulle and dozens of Casablanca lilies to provide the ethereal effect that was requested.
Another satisfied client reported to us that Family Affair actually saved her $800 on flowers simply by moving the flowers that lined the aisle at the wedding ceremony to the tables at the reception.
Family Affair has no minimum. They’ll do balloon decorating for a small gathering or create a theme for a major event. Whatever your budget allows, they will decorate, order and arrange the flowers, take care of the lighting, hire photographers and musicians, etc. They do NOT do catering. For more information, call (213) 654-5295.
In the past few weeks I’ve given you some good sources for wedding gowns at affordable prices. If you want to preserve that gown for posterity or have it cleaned for resale, here’s a source that will save some bucks.
The Cleaner of Wedding Gowns Only is the name Lynda Valenti chose for her company because it tells the whole story. Most cleaners’ fees for cleaning and preserving gowns start at $125 and go up to $300. Valenti has one set fee of $90 to clean and preserve a gown. If you want it cleaned but not preserved, the flat rate is $65. Unlike many other cleaners, Valenti guarantees her work. She personally hand-cleans, presses and preserves every gown, using a non-toxic water-based cleaner. She is the owner-operator and provides a very personalized service. Call (818) 363-5244.
Geri Cook’s Bargains column runs every Thursday in Valley View. Questions about shopping may be sent to her, in care of Valley View, Los Angeles Times, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth, CA 91311. Letters will not be answered individually, but topics of general interest will be discussed in future columns.
