Art of Negotiation

There are so many books, seminars and ways to learn about sales and negotiation. I am a queen at reading up and learning about the new and best techniques. Although the resources I read and learn from holds truth and are most of the times helpful, the true art of negotiation and sales is simple....

REMOVE ANY AND ALL EMOTION AND BE WILLING TO WALK AWAY.

This statement goes for the seller and the buyer. If either party is not willing to lose the deal than you are the sucker, the one who is being sold.

It's amazing how long it has taken me to really embrace this concept. Honestly, I am still fighting it today. You hear this concept and think you live by it, however, it's amazing how often you really don't follow it. I am noticing more and more when I think I am being tough, I have done my research, I know what I can and can't achieve and somehow the deal is still pending because at the end of it my emotions are involved and I don't want to walk away. I am realizing this in my sales position, in planning my wedding, in purchasing negotiable items, etc.

Think about my statement next time you are in a position and are trying to work a deal...it just might get you what you want.

Cheers,

Cara

I AM GETTING MARRIED!

I am so excited to share, after 4 years my boyfriend has proposed. It was a total shock and brought more excitement than I ever anticipated.

This year has been the year of weddings and engagements for my group of friends. Through it all, I have found several great ideas that I would like to share. One specifically being the, Guest Book.

Most people don't ever refer back to their guest book, as it typically collects dust sitting on the book shelf. My friend Sara was looking for a creative way to incorporate her guest book in her everyday life. Ideas I found (sadly didn't think of on my own) are listed below:

Do you like having friends and family over, than a signature platter is perfect for you. Another option would be a signature vase. Check out the links below.

Etsy: www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18397720
The You-nique Boutique: www.tybinc.com/cid-106-1/wedding_guestbook_platter.html
Wedding Mountain.com : www.weddingmountain.com/p-4066-signature-vase.aspx

From The You-Nique Boutique

From WeddingMountain.com

Another great option is a Wedding Photo Guest Book from Adesso Albums. This type of guest book is interactive and fun for your guests. They can take a traditional photo or capture a moment during the reception. Check it out by visiting the following link: http://www.adessoalbums.com/weddings.html

From Adesso Albums

Decorative River Stones: One option would be to have your guests sign the stone and drop in a vase. There is an old Irish Catholic Tradition where guests would toss a stone in the water while makeing a wish for the married couple.  To follow the tradition you can have the vase filled with water.

The Rock Shop: http://www.kingcustom.com/slate/slate2.html

The Knot: http://weddings.theknot.com/Real-Weddings/45177/detailview.aspx?type=3&id=45177

From The Knot

I will continue to share my findings as they come.

Cheers,

Cara