Happy Monday

 Hi Everyone,


Not that you're on the edge of your seat or anything, but this week will probably be busy for me, but I'll try and get a post up as soon as possible.  


Remember, life is a red carpet!


xo,
Viva




Ps, here are some pictures of my friends and I at the Balenciaga and Spain exhibit opening party at the De Young museum in San Francisco.   If you're in the Bay Area, check out the exhibit!  I recommend it.

[Halston Heritage stretch satin-jersey gown, Denise James earrings & bracelet]

The Flake

We all have one or a few of them in our lives.  Over the years, I've tried to weed them out the best I could to clear the garden of my life from those pesky little mofos - yes, I'm talking about The Flake.  That annoying, rude, chronically flaky person who always seems to cancel on your plans minutes before with some majorly lame excuse, or a just flat-out rude excuse such as "I'm tired" or "I had a bad day", multiple times.


A flake:  a person who consistently decides not to go to a planned event at the last second; to "ditch" or "bail out."


Now, there is a difference between "flaking", something that we are all allowed to do every once and a while, very sparingly - and "a flake".  A flake is a person who is the constant culprit of this kind of behavior.  A person who always has ridiculous excuses as to why they have to bail out on something at the last minute for the 18th time.  This is a pattern of regular behavior that will label you as A FLAKE!  I'd say if you flake more than once every 3 months - you're "a flake".  Sorry, TRUE.  I'll tell you this much - if you've been trying to shake me as a friend, an expedited route to getting rid of me for good is by flaking a few times - you'll be gone in no time!  


I really don't understand the flake mentality.  Yes, sure, I've flaked before when I really don't feel like doing something after all, but I make a point to do it very rarely.  I save it for those occasions where something else way more awesome has come up or if I'm feeling particularly down, tired or lazy.  Some people throw flaking around like its nothing!  Flake here, flake there.  Flaking, in my opinion, is one of the most disrespectful things a person can do to someone else, especially if it's on a regular basis.  Why are "flaky people" so damn flaky?  I've tried to understand, but unfortunately every time I give it some thought it just plain boils down to a lack of respect for other people and a sense of personal entitlement.  


I really just don't understand why people have such a hard time with saying "no" up front.  What is your issue?  Are you afraid?  Aren't you afraid of the consequences of bailing out last minute more than the temporary disappointment you will receive by telling them "no"?  Also, is it possible for a flaky person to learn to become non-flaky?  If I have any doubt in my mind whatsoever about committing to an event, I will just straight up say no to it, and there's always the possibility that I can pleasantly surprise them by showing up after all.  Flaking is being disrespectful to yourself, not only just to others.  You get to retain your dignity by adhering to this very noble rule of life:  underpromise and overdeliver.  You will gain so many fans by living by that rule, both socially and in business.


Why do flakers flake so much?  What is the root of it?  Are they scared to disappoint other people?  Is it linked with issues from childhood of never being "good enough", so they therefore try to overexert themselves in every other way to make up for that?  What is the root of flaking - that is what I would like to know, because I have such a hard time understanding it.   I guess I'll never know - it's just one of those things.  I could try to ask Flaky Mc. Flakerson, but they'll probably bail at the last minute anyways.


Tell me: after you pass, would you rather be known as "the dependable one", or "the flaky one"?  Something to consider.


C'est la vie.


xo,
Viva

We're non-flakes

Slightly New Layout

[My blooming plum tree against the San Francisco sky at dusk]

What do you guys think?  I'm pretty tech-unsavvy when it comes to designing my own blog templates, so I'm forced to choose from the default templates and there aren't that many to choose from, but this one is nice.  I was getting a little bored and changed it to this new background...not too different but I like this blush color for spring.


On that note, happy Sunday and check out one of my favorite websites/blogs that I visit every Sunday when it is updated.  You've probably heard of it before...it's one of the most popular blogs out there.  Sometimes the secrets are hilarious, incredibly sad, silly...it's always a fun read on a lazy Sunday afternoon.


postsecret.blogspot.com


xo,
Viva

[Cedricks fox-fur collar, Burberry London trenchcoat, Bebe earrings, MAC lipstick in creme d' nude]

Someone Had to Say It

Any handbag with an all-over designer print logo is not ok.  


Sorry ladies.  Let it go.  It had its time.  They should be paying you for ad space!

Hell no.

[Fendi Zucca (more like yuckka) tote]






Something like this Marc Jacobs is much more tasteful, more attractive, less expensive (than the heinous bag above), and is not screaming "LOOK EVERYONE! I BOUGHT A DESIGNER BAG AND IT COST A LOT OF MONEY!!!!!!!!!"  You want a bag that whispers, not screams.

[Marc Jacobs Classic Q Hillier Hobo]

Better yet, if you want a nice bag but are strapped for cash, look into Longchamp bags.  They are very reasonably priced (around $125-$200), they come in a ton of different colors, they are super durable, tasteful and great for everyday use.  But please just say no to the tacky all over print.  It can't be worn with class.

[Longchamp Small Foldable Tote/Basic]

For Once, the Hype is True

This post is for women and men.  Men, don't leave the page just jet!


Alright alright, I know I've already mentioned it on my blog a few times already, but I have to dedicate a post to it.  Retin A.


Whether you're a man or a woman, young or older, have acne-prone skin, aging skin or dry skin, Retin A can most likely help your situation.  I've been doing a lot of research on this product lately and have personally begun using it about two months ago.  I never really had any skin problems all throughout my life.  Combination skin with freckles, a blemish here and there, but nothing of any real annoyance or concern.  People told me all the time I had beautiful skin.  Then,  I became all to0 familiar with the world of adult onset acne.  Yay.  (Sense the sarcasm).  Not only that, but I felt my skin texture change, fine lines starting to form and a general "tired" look to my skin.  The joy of getting older!  (Yes - I'm still young, but it's beginning.)


I decided to get on Retin A after trying a product that contained Retinol (which is similar to Retin A - but less potent and intense and is available without a prescription) and seeing slight results that I liked but that were not really significant enough.  A few people kept telling me "you should try Retin A", but I was hesitant because I felt like it was too early or too intense for me.  I wish I had gotten on it sooner!  I have seen a marked improvement in many different areas of my variety of skin issues.  In addition, almost all the research I've done on the product and all the articles I've read are positive and proclaim that Retin A is the only product clinically proven to make a measurable difference.  Retin A is very commonly misunderstood, which is why I think it is not more widely used.  


The thing about Retin A is, you have to get over the hump.  The first month to six months (depending on your skin) are going to be tough, with increased sensitivity, dryness and irritation.   However, once this subsides (and it will) you will see why this product has devoted users of over 20 years.  I really feel that every woman (and man) should be on this product - even if you're still young.  You should be starting early now so you can preserve that youthful glow that you won't have forever.  If you begin Retin A, you should understand that you will probably be using it for the rest of your life if you want the best results, and I don't see why you wouldn't.  There's also options on which one to take - generic, name brand, ect. and your derm will help you decide which one suits your needs the best.


I can't write a tidbit about Retin A without mentioning how imperative it is to wear a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher while you're using it.  Your doctor will tell you this, but please don't take it with a grain of salt!  You should be wearing an SPF daily anyways - Retin A or not.  However, you will develop discoloration and other damage if you dabble with Retin A and not sunblock.  


So ladies, do yourself a favor and talk to your doctor about Retin A - you won't regret it!  In many instances, your insurance may even cover it if you're under 30 as an "acne treatment".  So make sure to inquire about that.  I have pasted links to a few articles for you to read if you don't take my word for it!  And as always, make sure maintain a lifestyle of eating right  with plenty of brightly colored vegetables, a food based multivitamin, fish oil and any other supplements you might need, drink enough water and avoid contaminants such as cigarettes, drugs, alcohol, junk food and preservatives to boost not only your physical appearance but your overall being as well.  Retin A wont do it all alone!


xo 
Viva




Retin  A testimonial links:


http://www.dermadoctor.com/article_Retin-A-Vitamin-A-Creams_63.html


http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/30/fashion/30skin.html


http://www.livestrong.com/article/323097-retin-a-cream-0-025-used-for-wrinkles/

Back to beautiful thanks in part to Retin A

[Gucci shades, Bebe lace blouse, MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2 lipstick]

Worth its Weight in Gold, but Nowhere Near as Costly

A couple posts back, I asked for your advice on a great moisturizer without a sunscreen.  Ever since I've begun using Retin A, my usual go-to moisturizer for 15 years, Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion was just not enough to combat all the dryness associated with Retin A.  Retin A is an incredibly effective skin treatment that is the only scientifically proven product to make a measurable improvement in wrinkles, discoloration, blotchyness, acne and generally all skin issues across the board.  However, it does make your skin very susceptible to sun damage, and I've experienced increased dryness as well.  That is why it is imperative to wear a sunscreen with a physical sunblock every day, and also to use an effective moisturizer as well.


Well, ladies (and gentelmen!)...I've found a great one and would like to share it with you all!  Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream.  I have combination skin that is more on the dry side now.  This cream is by far the best one that I've come across in my journey.  What stands out to me the most is that it is instantly softening, as soon as you smooth it on.  It is fragrance free, and is not greasy, but provides serious moisturizing strength.  It doesn't leave my skin oily, waxy, or greasy and preps my skin perfectly for make up application.  I know we all have different skin types and this one might not be for you, but if you are looking for a new everyday moisturizer I recommend trying it.  And, it's reasonably priced as well at $46 for 4.2 oz - which is cheap compared to some of the other moisturizers on the market I was considering switching to.  Yes, there are lots of AMAZING moisturizers that feel divine on my face, but I just can't and I refuse to commit to paying $85 for one or two measly ounces of face cream - I'll go through it in less than a month!!!!  One day when I'm loaded, maybe, but for now this cream is marvelous and priced perfectly for the average money saving girl.


One last thing - Keihls makes a similar product called Ultra Facial Lotion, which is slightly lighter, and they also make a "Panthenol Protien Moisturizing Face Cream" which is slightly heavier.  Both of which are also just as lovely, depending on your skin type.  For men too!


Vieve's Verdict: A+

Black Cherry Baby

Here's an image of my new new red hair as one or two of you asked for.  It kind of looks different in the two pictures due to my cameraphone, and the lighting.  I decided I wanted a more dark dark black cherry color.  I think this is the final color I'll be sticking to for a while...I personally love it.  I didn't want something too Jessica Rabbit (I do have a day job, after all) but I wanted it to be bold and striking, still.  This dark black cherry color hit the mark for me.  This is the first time I'm straying from my usual golden almond blonde in 15 years!  Sometimes you gotta just mix it up.   However, it is definitely interesting and funny - the shift in looks, vibe, ect. I have received since going red.  The type of people who notice you, ect.  Always fun to change it up a bit and be a slightly different person for a while.

I used an Alfaparf color (shout out to Jilly-poo who made it happen!) which has left my hair feeling incredibly soft and silky - like a deep conditioning treatment.  I recommend this brand of color for those looking to dye their hair.  Also, all their colors are incredibly vibrant and end up looking really healthy as well.

Hopefully you guys will be nicer than the last red hair post.  Jeesh guys, tell me how you really feel. Lol.

xo,

Viva

Vieve's Verdict: A+

Some time back, I created a post summarizing my notable face primers.  There was one in particular - Mac Prep and Prime Face Protect SPF 50 - that I listed but had not yet tried out yet, and I promised I'd update once I did.


I have had a chance to try this one out, and I wanted to make a post to proclaim to the world that this is a great product, and will definitely be the primer I am sticking to!  I can't tell you how happy I am to finally find a sunblock that I can wear on a daily basis.  Every other sunscreen I've tried has been a disaster - leaving my face feeling waxy, oily, sticky, making me break out, making it impossible to put makeup on top of it.  This product both protects my skin with a comfortably high SPF of 50 while simultaneously anchoring my makeup and providing a smooth, flawless canvas to give me the look I want all day long.  In addition, it contains a physical sunblock as well, which is another perk.

I highly recommended this!  Vieve's Verdict: A+


xo,
Viva

Someone Had to Say It

I had to reserve a special post for Madonna's ensemble at the 2011 Vanity Fair Oscar afterparty.


This look never works.  Never. When Britney Spears did it a while back, it looked just as batshit crazy as it does on Madonna now, in addition to making otherwise normal sized thighs look like mannish, sasquatch thunder thighs.  Ladies, save this look for Halloween only.  The fake looking fur, lace + fishnets horror show and bodysuit are so beyond any word that is coming to mind....I can't.  I actually get angry and offended looking at this.  


In addition, I'd like to add:  the show "Fashion Police" on E! is one of my favorite and most respected programs-I don't really make a point to catch any other shows on Television besides this one.  I tune in every week to watch Fashion Police, and that's saying a lot.  I find the banter to be hilarious and the fashion opinions and critiques spot on.  However, during the Fashion Police Oscar special, I was severely disappointed and angered by the Madonna ass kissing going on - all four of them (Joan Rivers, Kelly Osbourne, Juliana Rancic and George Kotsiopoulos) approved of this disaster because "It's Madonna, so it works".  NO, it doesn't! What the hell is wrong with them?? I'd even argue that her being Madonna specifically is what makes this so bad! She looks great for her age, but this is the epitome of crazy cat lady gone prostitute to afford her cat food.  Ladies and gentleman of Fashion Police I expect MORE from y ou.  Keep this up and I'll be tuning out!


I apologize for being harsh.  Had to get that off of my chest.  Her daughter looks adorable, however.




xo,
Viva

2011 Academy Awards Notable Mentions - and Vanity Fair afterparty Add-ons!

Here we go again!

Jennifer Hudson in Versace

It seems that this dress is photographing differently in various lightings.  Although the color does not seem to pop as much in this photo as it does in others, this dress is still a winner.  The peachy-orange color goes beautifully with her smooth mocha complexion, and the cut of the dress adds something to an otherwise stiff and rigid gala gown.  The V neck and asymmetrical detail at the hip give this dress some needed edge.  I'd have liked to see the color a tad on the more coral side for everyone else who'd like to wear it, as any other girl had worn it with a different complexion, it would not have worked.  This brown queen is fit for a throne in my book, and the crystal-white jewels accent everything perfectly.  A

Anne Hathaway in Valentino

The show isn't even over yet, and already everyone is fussing over how beautiful this dress is.  This may seem like true movie star glam at first glance, but I'm goin' against the grain on this one.  This was a huge disappointment for me.  First of all, it looks like a mediocre bridesmaid dress.  Secondly, the fit is not flattering her body at all- NOTHING like how flattering that gown she wore to the Golden Globes was - this makes her look stumpy, boyish and adds about 25 years.  Lastly, this bright red color in combination with her whiter than white complexion is completely washing her out, and the red lipstick is just completing this 50+ look.  Not that I have anything against 50+, I just don't feel its right for a girl in her late twenty's.  The floral bunching is what's saving this dress from being an F.  As of now, I'm going to give the entire look (ho-hum, middle parted bland hair and all) a D-.  I think it's terrible.


UPDATE 2/28/11:  Ok, everyone...please check out this link to see Anne in Atelier Versace at the Vanity Fair afterparty later that evening:  http://perezhilton.com/2011-02-28-anne-on-hosting


Now, HOW MUCH BETTER does she look there!?  She looks amazing in that dress!!  I'd give it an A.  The first red dress is completely heinous, and this gorgeous picture of Anne Hathaway that very same night in a different ensemble just strengthens my opinion on the first one.  Way to make a quick comback, girl!

Mila Kunis in Elie Saab Haute Couture 

I have been dying to review Mila Kunis all season!  She's been my steady favorite in most of the big awards shows this year, and this is no exception.   The ethereal, delicate feel of this gown on her is stunning.  I love the stark contrast against her olive skin tone and almost-black hair; it really balances out how feminine and girly the dress is.  Had it been worn by an equally feminine and delicate starlet (say, Reese Witherspoon) I don't think it would make the same impact.  Love it, love her. A

Amy Adams in L 'Wren Scott

This one is getting mostly negative feedback so far, however I think this is the best I've seen from Amy Adams ever.  Perhaps I'm being influenced by her historically lackluster, forgettable looks, but I think she looks great in this gown, and I don't think the sequins are too much, surprisingly.  The dress is slimming on her, and the at-bay dark blue color keeps the sequins subdued (similar to the nude sequins on Anne Hathaway at the Golden Globes).  Sequins are tricky - this wouldn't have worked if it was a brighter color.  I am however going to bring the entire look down to a B due to the random jewelry selection - I don't feel the green teardrop necklace or bracelet are adding to the look in a good way - more like making it look a tiny bit cluttered.  B

Hillary Swank in Gucci Premiere 

Ok, ok....maybe I'm just a smidge biased because I LOVE everything feathers....but I do really enjoy this frock on Ms. Swank.  I think her swept back hair is the perfect selection for this almost over the top dress, and the minimal (or nonexistant) jewelry as well.  She looks fierce!  B+

Michelle Williams in Chanel Haute Couture 

Man, I am tired of her borderline hipster looks this year.  The hair is killing me!  It's ruining every one of her outfits on the red carpet.  In addition, she wears dresses like this over and over and over again...come to think of it...check out this link...proof is in the pudding.  http://www.harpersbazaar.com/bazaar-blog/michelle-williams-venice-0910.  This is definitely a step up from the Valentino nightmare at the Golden Globes, I've got to give her that.  But...eh.  Underwhelming at best.  And PLEASE do something with the pixie hair.  You're a woman, not a child.  Such a gorgeous girl, such potential.  C-

Cate Blanchett Givenchy Haute Couture 

I knew the second I saw this gown it had to be from the amazing Spring 2011 Givenchy line.  This might be my best dressed pick of the entire show.  It's a little avante-garde, most people probably think it's kind of weird - and I understand why...but I think its amazing.  All of the other gowns from this line that have attempted to be worn have looked awkward and like art instead of fashion - this is the first time I've seen one of these dresses look absolutely stunning on someone in person.(i.e.- http://www.thefashioncult.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/florence-welch-wears-givenchy-couture-to-grammys-2011.jpg  - this dress from the same line that Florence Welch wore at the Grammy's didn't work.) The gown is a magnificent piece of work, and it fits Cate Blanchett exquisitely.  I love everything about her look here, and the bright yellow detail adds an unexpected punch. The details are actually "pearls" made out of leather - just stunning! However, I will admit that I'm giving the gown an A+, and not necessarily the person.  But, she did it well, and this isn't an easy dress to carry. A+

Nicole Kidman in Christian Dior

So, this is an example of an dress that wants to be like Givenchy that Cate Blanchett wore, but instead of being bold, intricate and sophisticated, it looks crafty, almost cheap and awkward.  It reminds me of those dresses you can get in Chinatown.  I hate the detailing, and the bright red pump is a cheesy touch.  Nothing else to say about it really.  Oh - the sharp, jagged sideswept bangs match the tacky theme of this dress as well. F

 Penelope Cruz in L 'Wren Scott

"Firey Latina" is what this is screaming.  Whoop-de-doo. Its unoriginal and I'm disappointed that she went for the typical and expected red dress that shows of the girls.  In addition, the sequin fire detailing is a bit tacky in my opinion.  I do give her major credit and props for wearing a risky and revealing gown only a month after giving birth, but the dress looks again, costumey.  She's very gorgeous, so overall she still looks beautiful, but this dress is at best a 3.  I'm thinking...Chico's when I look at this. C-

Celine Dion in Giorgio Armani Prive

This dress is buttery, creamy, silky...its a great look.  She looks fantastic!  I don't really see a lot of long-sleeved dresses on the red carpet and this is a fresh, welcome change. She looks like royalty.  The bold, yet not overdone shoulders add to her long and lean look, and her hair is a perfect accoutrement to the ensemble. I do enjoy the statement necklace as well.  In addition, the dress is keeping her body high and tight - and considering she also just recently gave birth, that alone is worth an A.  A

Melissa Leo in Marc Bouwer

This looks like a doily.  Her face and hair - A...but the dinnerplace napkin dress - F.  Averaging out to a D+.  AND, it's custom, too!  It's bad enough that it looks this bad, but to hear she had a role in creating this disaster?   What a shame. D+






VANITY FAIR AFTERPARTY:

Leah Michele in Roberto Cavalli

It's nice to see Leah Michelle trying to step outside of the box, but I'm still not a fan of her look here, sadly.  I'm starting to feel bad, because this is the third time I've given her a bad grade.  She looks engulfed in this dress - its a bit too much...and it really isn't flattering her body whatsoever.  I'm seeing too many bulges and lumps - which I don't even think really exist but rather the dress is making it look like it.  I feel like only a waif-thin supermodel would look OK in this.  In addition, I'm not really a fan of the dress itself - the pattern is not flattering, or pretty, or fierce...it's just kind of...strange.  In addition, I think the long sleeves with sequins are making her look overly buff.  Also, I also now see why she always wears her hair down...the swept back look isn't exactly flattering on her.  Sorry, Ms. Michele.  C-

Rosario Dawson in Diane von Furstenburg

I had to post this and give it an honorable mention. THIS is fabulous.  I love everything about the dress! The color, sequins, cut...it makes just the right statement.  The neckline actually plunges a little bit deeper than it appears in this picture (I think it's her posture that is making it look higher), which is the only critique I have for it. I'd wear this in a second.  It reminds me of the dress Angelina Jolie wore to the Golden Globes this year...and I love that one too.  Perfect!  She looks like a goddess.  A

Jessica Biel in Atelier Versace

This dress has been getting bad reviews.  I actually like it in a weird way. I think its very uncommon and different.  If a less pretty girl had worn this, it would have looked horrible.  However, I feel like the dress goes with her stunning beauty well...it's almost acting as an accessory to her beautiful face.  I think it was a risk, its a bit fashion forward, but it worked.  And her body looks amazing.  Side note: is it just me, or do really buff women always look like their wearing workout clothes no matter what they're wearing? Lol.  B+

Amanda Seyfried in Valentino 

Just a tip: spray-tan.  Your skin is blending in with the ashy-cream color of your dress. C-

Camila Alves in Marchesa

I'm in love with this dress, I'm in love with Marchesa in general.  This dress is reminicent of the tattoo-sleeve dress Katy Perry wore a while back that I featured in one of my blog posts.  I actually inquired about buying that dress because I loved it so much but it was unavailable to the public.  This dress is so original, and unlike anything else I saw at the Oscars.  I think her low, sleek bun is a perfect accompaniment to this dress because it is a bit busy.  She looks great.  I'd totally wear this one!  A-

xoxo,
Viva

Group Vaycays Done Right

Part of our fabulous and amazing group at Marquee at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, NV

[Nightcap Clothing lace dress, Shotwell earrings]

Planning a vacation for a large group is a task that should not be taken with folly.  The person tackling this daunting but worthwhile job should be aware that the role requires due-diligence, a TON of patience (something I could still improve on), some savvy-know how, string-pulling, and a love for organization.  I'll have you know; however, that it is COMPLETELY worth it.  Group vacations are some of the most amazing, memorable and FUN experiences to have  if the trip goes well (AKA – not a complete disaster).  Someone in every group of friends should (wo) man up and take on this role, because every group of friends should go on at least one or two big vacations! Once travel and check-in is complete, most of the stress is over, and you can then relish in all your hard work as group coordinator.


1.  The group.  When planning a group vacation, take into consideration the people you are including in the trip.  Some peoples' personalities are not going to do well with situations that may be stressful, physically or emotionally demanding, and keep in mind that when people travel our personalities tend to shift a bit -as we are all a tad more elevated on varying levels when we are away from home.  In addition, consider how  personalities will react with each other, and re-examine whether or not you want to bring any and everyone on your trip.   Keep this in mind when choosing who's rooming together.  Try not to stick one person who may not be as close with others in a room just because it might be convenient for you - this often ends up being awkward and in my experience, the person could bail on the trip entirely because they don't want to be in a weird rooming situation, understandably.  This will aid in encouraging a welcoming atmosphere and to help keep them happy.


2.  Your expectations.  One of the most important things I've learned while planning group trips over the years is: everything is not going to go as planned.  Things will have last minute changes, and in the past (more early on) this has upset me.  I now know that the trip planner can only do the best that they can to create a perfect trip, and only about 60% of what was planned for is actually going to happen.  I say, embrace it!  This is one of the many fun aspects of a group trip.  Think about how a flock of birds fly together - going any which way - sometimes splitting up, but usually blending back and moving forward together.  You can only do so much to keep it all tied in, and in many ways it is like being a kindergarten teacher - it is very difficult and virtually impossible to keep everyone in the same place.  Know that people are going to branch off to do the various activities they want to.  Allow this to happen, but plan a unifying group activity for each day (lunch, dinner, drinks, nightclub) that will bring everyone back together.  You want to be the group point person, not the planning group Nazi.


3.  The location.  Choose a location that is going to have many different outlets for all kinds of personality types.  Some people will want to sleep in and wander down to the pool or spa to relax, others may want to go out exploring, shopping or for a hike. Choosing a fun location with options will help keep everyone happy.  In addition, make sure everyone has hotel rooms booked at the same hotel and with rooms on the same floor or connecting if possible.  Explicitly specify when booking the rooms that you would like all rooms to be linked together, even if under different names.  Many times hotels offer discounts or benefits for booking multiple rooms at the same time, so make sure to inquire about this as well.  Also, encourage your party people to book their itinerary as soon as you do.  Prices will only go up over time (can’t stress this enough) - and if you've gotten them to commit, nudge a bit to have them book ASAP or else they'll be tempted to cancel on you when prices go up after they've procrastinated booking their tickets and rooms.  If someone is being particularly unreachable or non-enthusiastic, drop ‘em early on.  Enthusiasm is an important thing to bring on a group trip, and after years of getting on people for this, I now say don’t waste your energy and efforts on someone who is being flaky. You’ve got enough on your plate.


4.  The vehicle.  It is ideal if most people are on the same flight to encourage the group atmosphere, however there will always be a few stragglers that plan their own flights.  I recommend flying Southwest Airlines WHENEVER possible. They are the only airline that does not charge a change/cancel fee if your dates change and they do not charge for checked bags.  Believe it or not, this adds up.  Yes, Virgin America has cool-looking planes, but you will be pissed off and regretting booking with them when you have to pay $75 per flight to change your itinerary AND $25 per checked bag. It adds up!  If you are driving, encourage everyone to meet at one spot, all leaving at the same time.


5.  Foresight.  Make sure to always anticipate change, and having enough room on your credit card (or in your wallet) for any unexpected mishaps or change in events is usually a good idea.  For example, on our most recent group excursion, we ended up having to switch hotels at the very last minute.  I was able to book 3 rooms at our new hotel immediately on my credit card, but in the meantime, I was still waiting for my deposit funds to be released by the old hotel.  Had I not had enough room on my card to re-book, this could have made things a lot more complicated.  In addition, expect a lot of confusion when paying for any and every group activity.  The best way to go about it is by having one person pay the venue, with everyone paying that person back.  It is that person's responsibility to do the math correctly and make sure they are being reimbursed appropriately.  Taking turns between bill payers each time ensures not one person in particular is paying for everything, over and over again.  This usually applies to dinners and bottle service only.  And, if you're feeling risky – try credit card roulette.  Heh heh heh. ;-)


-Another tip: when booking restaurant or nightclub reservations, always give an estimate of how many people are going to be coming, for example 10-12.  One or two people are always going to drop off or add to the party, and the venue should be aware that the party size may fluctuate.  However, when going to a nightclub – make sure to provide a guest list with full names to your host – this is the #1 thing a lot of nightclubs request going forward with your reservation, and if you dilly-daddle on it they will probably put you on the back burner thinking you’re not serious (this is our attitude at the club I work at).  Just let them know that a few people may add on or drop off.  Planning large dinners is probably the most difficult part of a group vacation - many restaurants require a credit card to hold the reservation and the seating setup is often awkward as well when it's groups of more than 8.  I would really only suggest doing a large dinner if the group is 10 people or under.




Advice for the group goers:


-Be on time to any planned events.
-Expect to contribute a fair and equal amount of money to dinners or other planned events. Don’t be the group cheap ass, scrutinizing every detail of the bill and asking tons of questions – great way to get on the fast track to annoying everyone in the group. If you end up paying $20 more than you should have, make a point to pay $20 less at the next dinner/lunch etc.  Do NOT make a scene at the restaurant when everyone wants to just get out of there and party.
-Don't be afraid to suggest or partake in any planning! The more ideas the merrier. Being a vacation planner is much like being a party host -any help is always welcome.
-Realize that people are going to act a little differently on vacation, and things are subject to change at any point.  Embrace this!
-Whatever you do, don't back out at the last minute!
-Take pictures!  The more people taking pictures, the more likely that everyone will actually get to see them!  Picture posting laggers, you know who you are!  ;-)




And most importantly, have fun and be patient.  I'd do it again in a heartbeat!  So worth it.


xo,
Viva

My friends enjoying our trip!