Jersey Shore Recap: 2/2/12

To kick off this episode, the roommates got back to the shore, Vinny included.  At the house, Pauly fills in Vinny, including the strange niceness coming from Mike.  Deena suggests to everyone that they go out to Karma that night to celebrate the eight of them being together again.  Before going out, Jenni things there is something going on with her and Rodger.  She gives him a quick phone call and he does not answer.

On the party deck, Mike says he wants to get a tattoo that says, “Loyalty & Betrayal.”  Ronnie jokes about how Mike knows everything about Betrayal and nothing about Loyalty.

As soon as the group arrives at Karma, Mike goes off and does his own thing while Pauly and Vinny play wingmen for each other.  Later at Karma, Snooki pees her pants.  She goes to the bathroom to, “freshen up,” which actually means spraying immense amounts of perfume on her, to mask the smell.  This is, apparently, called a “shore shower.”  When they get home, Deena says goodnight to all the boys.  She then says, “I love you,” to Pauly and Vinny and asks that they return the favor.  The guys laugh and don’t reciprocate.

In the morning, Snooki wakes up before everyone else, still in her red dress and black heels from the night before, and takes off the dirty underwear and throws it away.  When Deena wakes up, she realizes her fused extensions and her clip-in extensions have gotten tangled overnight.  She goes to the bathroom to try to solve her problem.  She ends up wetting the extensions and blow drying them to help untangle them.  Using the blow dryer, Deena accidentally electrocutes herself.  She was fine.  She told Sammi she just felt the current running through her arm.  The two girls discuss their theories on electricity.

During the day, everyone wants to go to Jenks, an outdoor restaurant and bar.  Before going, Jenni tries to call Rodger again, but he ignores the call.  While getting ready, Snooki decides to wear two pair of underwear, “just in case.”  When the groups gets to Jenks, Mike runs into two random friends, which makes the guys wonder if they are actually friends or just people Mike met at a club before.  At the bar, Snooki says she needs to go to the bathroom again and it really hurts, so she says she has a UTI again.  In order to stop the pain, her solution is to take shots of tequila.  After spending a few hours at Jenks, the group decides to go to batting cages, but Mike says he is having a good time and chooses to stay.

After the batting cages, the group meets up with Mike again and Snooki, Deena, and he ride in the cab together.  In the cab, Mike throws out there how nice he has been lately but he still feels like he is the odd man out.  The girls say that may be because he rarely hangs out with them, he prefers to do his own thing.

When they get back, the bathrooms in the house are all taken, so Snooki urinates on the back porch.  She covers it with shorts.  Up on the party deck, Snooki, Deena, and Mike are together, where Mike tells them he does not have a hidden agenda for his sudden niceness.  Snooki tells him that the roommates don’t really trust him.  This upsets Mike, leading him to want to confront the rest of the roommates.  Asking the guys to be honest with him, Mike asks if he has done anything to make them angry.  They say no.  Pauly speculates that Mike was just intoxicated.

That night, the group decides to hang out at their house.  They are hanging out on the party deck when Team Meatball decides to play a prank.  They go inside, while everyone slowly migrates back to the house.  Snooki dresses in the bunny costume and one at a time, she ransacks her roommates.  With Pauly, pins him down and makes suggestive gestures.

Back outside, they play a game called, “Warm Beer,” which is actually not a game, but a joke to be played on Snooki.  In the “game,” they tell Snooki that it is a memory game and involves drawing pictures on the face of the person to your left.  What is really happening is that Ronnie is putting soot on Snooki’s face.  She has no idea until she goes inside to go to the bathroom.  She wants revenge.

Mike goes to bed because he has a headache.  Snooki puts on the bunny mask, climbs on Mike (in his bed), and wake him up, scaring him.

At work in the morning, Deena makes a pair of underwear that say, “I Jersey Turnpike,” so that when she Jersey turnpikes, they show.

At the house, Jenni and Snooki are getting their hair done when Snooki’s dad shows up.  She forgot he was coming today, but sends him to the store for cranberry juice.

Mike is on the boardwalk and runs into Rodger.  When he gets home, Jenni is talking to Snooki’s dad about her problems with Rodger, and Mike informs her that he just ran into Rodger and that he was going to the beach with some buddies.

While Snooki and her dad are spending time together, Mike says he thinks Snooki is the real trouble maker of the house, not him.  He also admits he is going to call the Unit to finish the unfinished business.

What do you think is going to happen with the Snooki-Mike-Jionni-Unit frenzy?

“G.G.”: A Toast to 100 Episodes with a Royal Roast

*SPOILER ALERT*

We have watched our precious preppy Upper East-siders transform into budding brides and lavished lads, so it would only make sense for the 100th episode to highlight their growth.

Growth for the characters, however, hasn’t revealed growth for the show, and Gossip Girl gurus have been patiently awaiting a record-making comeback. With Blair’s wedding on deck, “G.G.” had a royal opportunity to redeem itself for its second-rate scheming. Lucky for die-hard fans like myself, this week’s episode played out as if it were 2007, complete with shocking twists and revolting revelations.

For this week’s recap, I thoroughly thought out techniques to summarize all of the emotions that swept over me during an hour of nail biting and edging to the end of your seat. How could I describe the sense of relief as Serena rushed to Chuck to reveal the highly dramatic reason for Blair’s change of heart (the pathetic pact Blair had made with her acquaintance upstairs)? How could I describe the excitement of the royal roast as Gossip Girl’s Blair Blast interrupted the ceremonial bliss? How could I describe the sense of utter contempt as Louis and Blair said “I do” and cut their hideous wedding cake together? How could I describe the shocking pangs of excitement as Louis finally added something meaningful to the plot? How could I explain the sadness I felt as Dan pulled up the getaway car for the royal runaway? And lastly, how could I explain the confusion as Gossip Girl’s identity was revealed so suddenly, without warning?

I realized why not let our favorite socialites do the talking. Here are some of this week’s most memorable quotes!

Gossip Girl: ”Once upon a time, Princess B was a virgin queen and her king was named Archibald. Who would have thought that in just five short years she would turn that headband into a tiara for real?”

Celebrating the present goes hand-in-hand with taking a look back at the past. You can’t be thankful for today if you don’t look at the journey you took to get here, which is why this line was fabulously fresh yet totally in line with Gossip Girl tradition. Witty and memorable, Gossip Girl reminds viewers that Queen B of Constance Billard School is now the soon to be Princess B of Monaco. Her king Archibald is a nice lead into Nate’s storyline for the episode, which was reflecting on his pathetic love life over the past few years. Too bad his new love interest is still in the inner circle of Upper East side drama (the real Charlie Rhodes)—they just can’t seem to get away can they?

 

Chuck Bass: ”I can’t allow you to destroy Blair’s wedding. You think because I love her, I want her all to myself, but I’m not that man anymore. I just want her to be happy, and if marrying Louis will do that for her, that’s what’s going to happen.”

Here’s a toast to “I’m Chuck Bass.” He had a few good years as the guy you love to hate, but I think I love him more as the guy you love to love. After pouring his heart out to B, professing that the one person who loves him is standing right next to him (for the millionth time), we finally get to see the changed Chuck Bass. Yes. I miss the devious, scheming Chuck, but there is something maturely manly about Manhattan’s most not-so-eligible bachelor. His selflessness reveals a true love that makes him that more attractive. Though if there were any time for Chuck to be selfish, this would be the time. GG fans can’t just chuck Chuck, and Blair can’t either.

 

Georgina Sparks: “Bless us, Father. I have a feeling we’re about to sin.”

Making the top of any list in the Upper East Side is a big deal, and for Georgina Sparks, taking the number one slot on Manhattan’s Elite Enemy list is exactly where she wants to be. Little did we know, Georgina’s competition for the number one enemy is none other than herself—Gossip Girl! The episode had to end with a bang, and with a bang it did. The revelation that Georgina is Gossip Girl is a little hard to believe. But that’s another conversation. Georgina utters these sweetly devilish words as she’s dressed in Father Carvallia’s cassock, or better yet the “divine intervention costume.” The elevator doors close, and the suspense lingers. Although Georgina isn’t my favorite character, her return definitely stirs the plot pot up. And with Jesus on her side (apparently, he owes her one) I really had no good guesses for what would happen next. The last thing I expected was Georgina to be typing the latest GG post. My guess? The writers are trying to throw us off, and Georgina is just really good at being really bad (a hacker perhaps). Guess we won’t be saying au revoir to Georgina for a while.

 

Serena: “I know that it scares you, and I know that it’s a risk. But don’t enter into a false life just because you’re afraid to face your real one.”

After the odd opening musical number with Serena starring as Marilyn Monroe and Blair filling in the shoes of Audrey Hepburn, I didn’t know what to think. I’ve analyzed television shows enough to know there was a little bit of foreshadowing, but in what way? Was Serena truly looking out for BFF Blair? After years of stupid decisions and failed relationships, Serena finally learns that you can’t lie to anyone about the way you truly feel. Whether it scares you or not, you have to be true to yourself. The heart-felt scene between the long-time lovebirds reveals a sense of maturity S rarely is known for. She is the friend that every girl needs, the friend that tells it like it is. “But maybe the pact is just an excuse to protect yourself from the messiness and uncertainty of a life with the man you really love.” Of course, Blair’s precious pact is more important than any advice from the people who care about her. She follows through with the over-the-top wedding, which includes hats on the guest list, and in turn, has to learn the hard way. As for the aforementioned foreshadowing, Serena’s musical dream includes a scene where she grabs Dan the one person she “keeps coming back to” but Dan rejects her for Blair. Nice touch GG writers. Once again, Serena puts herself out there and loses in the battlefield of love to none other than her best friend Queen B, er shall I say, Princess B. Oh, the irony.

Louis: “From now on, there is nothing between us but a contract. Our marriage is all for show. And you’re going to put on the best damn show anyone ever has. You’ll smile for cameras; stand by my side and wave like, like you don’t have a care in the world. And when we are alone, we’ll be like strangers to one another. And that will stay this way until I say its over.”

Eek. Seriously, this scene makes me shiver. Every bone in my body tensed up as Louis danced with his pretty princess, but whispered words of a mad man. A powerful mad man. Although I hate everything about Louis, including his terrible acting skills, I must say if this was the episode for him to actually evoke emotions from GG watchers, he succeeded. By far the best twist of the night for me. It was totally out of character for Louis, but very well scripted and perfectly executed. At least Blair had it in her to call her savior for help–too bad it still isn’t Chuck. You lucky, lucky Dair fans.

There is so much to look forward to for next week’s episode. Has Georgina been Gossip Girl all along? If you ask actress Michelle Trachtenberg, she’ll tell you she has no idea.

“I knew the 100th episode would end with a bang, but definitely didn’t expect that!” Michelle told US Weekly. She also said that it was probably a really big surprise for her cast mates since “big secret” scripts are only given out to the people involved in the scenes.

Are Dair fans in for a treat, while Chair fans have to angrily throw their towels in? How is Serena going to react to Blair’s Back-Up Plan having to do with Dan?  Here’s a sneak peak into the drama. See you next week!

Xoxo Sunny

Sana Ashraf is a fashion writer and fashion show intern and is a junior at the University of Michigan. Sana loves reading fashion magazines, shopping sprees, city lights, color coordinated closets, and all four seasons.

Gossip Girl: ‘Father and the Bride’ Schemingly Good

*Spoiler Alert!*

Last week’s episode left most GG lovers annoyed and frustrated. Blair losing a baby with no real consequences and making a pact with God to never be with Chuck, along with Serena and Dan starting a fake relationship was a disappointment for a midseason premiere. So, naturally with the 100th episode of the hottest Upper East Siders just around the corner, I was definitely hoping that “Father and the Bride” would bring plotting mediums back to Manhattan. Luckily for me, GG got its scheme back (for the most part). Check out the top 5 OMG moments Gossip Girl stirred up to get me back, and take a quick look at the top 5 moments that could have been left out.

Top 5 OMG Moments

1. The Tripp Trap: Pardon my pun, but I couldn’t help myself. The trap was perfect. Serena and Nate stage a fight, use their biggest frenemy Gossip Girl to their advantage, and get Tripp exactly where they want him–feeling like he almost got away with it. I have to admit, I usually catch things but this plot I didn’t see coming at all. When Serena fought with Nate, I couldn’t grasp my head around how she could believe Tripp over Nate. After all, he was the the culprit in nearly killing Serena in a car crash to escape a political scandal. But as Serena was discussing details of the car crash with Tripp, and discussing how Nate has changed I really thought she believed Tripp. Just as Tripp starts to tell Serena who he thinks is responsible (his wife Maurine), voila! Open sesame, que in dramatic door opening with Nate and Grandfather Archibald present the whole time. As I guessed, Tripp was responsible for the crash that killed Blair’s baby and ruined Chair’s chances. So what was the juicy motive behind Tripp’s second car crash stunt? Being unloved by Grandfather. Guess we can’t have our cake and eat it too.
2. Beauty and the Beast (Beatrice and the Priest): Okay, so Beatrice is no Belle but during most of the episode she tries to step into Belle’s lovely and pure hearted shoes. Sucking up to Blair is her main goal and she even decides to throw her an alternative bachelorette party to keep Chuck from finding her. Of course, the OMG moment wasn’t that she had a secret agenda with her partner in crime, the Beastly Priest. (I still don’t understand how a servant of God could commit such dirty crimes, but I guess anything’s possible on the Upper East Side). Instead it was that she backed out, and dumped her heaven on earth for her own angelic reasons. At first, Princess Beatrice and Father Carvallia attempt to get Blair humiliatingly drunk and alone with Chuck to reveal her true feelings, thus keep Father Carvallia on the Royal Court. However, Beatrice surprisingly gets a conscience after a drunken night full of heartfelt conversations and a mistaken arrest. Beatrice’s future sister-in-law losing her baby was obviously not enough for her to start caring, but a wild night out on the town with lots of tequila and Officer Weiner was.  But hey, whatever works. As for the Beast, when his Princess backs out he decides to let his inner ugliness take over and gets Beatrice banished to missionary bootcamp in East Africa. Yet, another failed attempt to incorporate religion in a world full of plotting priests and lying lovers.
   

   Bride to Be with her gals at her Bachelorette Party

3. Void Vows: As Gossip Girl mentioned in her sign off, “Talk is cheap. So if you don’t have anything nice to say, you might as well shut your mouth.” Or just do what Louis did and get someone to talk for you… er write for you. I don’t know if it was just me, but I was totally surprised to see that Dan would do that. Then again, Dan’s character has been below sea level. We’re all just drowning in his demise. But really? I thought he cared about Blair (which he clearly does since his vows were piercingly touching). But writing fake vows for a guy she’s about the spend the rest of her life is a low blow, especially for Dan– Brooklyn’s token good guy. Guess you can take the man out of the Upper East Side, but you just can’t take the Upper East Side out of the man.
4. Divine Intervention: Badass Bass is back. Yes, the “I’m Chuck Bass” Chuck is scheming with none other than Father Carvallia to break off the wedding. “She already thinks I’m a villain, I may as well become one” is how he devishly replies to Father Carvallia’s divine intervention deal. I was definitely surprised to see the two unexpected allies teaming up, though it makes sense since they share a common goal: to stop the Royal Wedding. Now all we can hope for is that Blair doesn’t end up hating Chuck for leaving his Good Guy ways for his schemingly better red suit.
   

   Chuck spying on Blair.

5. Dan’s Yoga Stretch: I didn’t think Dan was going to have much more a story line than being Serena’s fake boyfriend or Blair’s punching bag. But surprisingly, his so called Western pitch is too far of a stretch for what his viewers and publishers want. They would much rather read a sequel to his gossip-filled, juicy look into the inside life of Manhattan’s elite (who wouldn’t?). What’s more OMG material than the fact that he’s writing a sequel to Inside, is what executive producer Josh Safran has to say about it. “His second book is going to be very integral to the second half of the season,” Safran says. “If his first book ruffled a few feathers, this ons will ruffle a lot more.” Ruffling feathers? Sounds schemingly perfect to me.

 

Top 5 UGH Moments

1. Serena Uploading S By S to the Spectator- After Nate pulls Serena’s column, she snoops around and figures out it was Seriously thought she had more class, loyalty, and patience than that.
2. Serena Lying to Dan about Their Fake Relationship- I almost hate Serena as much as Dan right about now. Why are both of their characters losing quality personalities? Okay, quality might be pushing it but at least they were confident before. Now Serena is so insecure that she can’t come out and tell Dan she has feelings for him. Does she really have to lie about Blair needing them to continue their fake rendezvous? Clearly, effects from the car crash are bogging her memory and she forgot that she is Serena Van der Woodson. Serena, there are a million men in Manhattan–move on!
3. Blair’s Belief in Beatrice- Blair and Beatrice on good terms? That stunk of fakeness from the opening moments of episode 12. Blair used to be Queen B, the queen schemer. She always kept her friends close, and enemies closer, catching the bad in the brat before they could even blink. To see her losing her royal powers to Beatrice saddens me.
   

   Beatrice cozying up to Blair before the Bachelorette Party.

4. Dan’s Blame Game Against Chuck- Dan had no reason or proof to think Chuck was behind the riot at Blair’s bachelorette party and it was really annoying to watch Dan blame him with no proof. The fact that Dan told Blair and once again kept Blair in the dark from Beatrice’s true motives was pathetic, and sadly so Dan to mess things up. I miss the old Dan. (Anyone agree?)
   

   Blair telling Chuck to stop following her.

5. Baby Blues- The fact that the show uses the loss of the baby as the fake reason for why Beatrice and Blair are on good terms is not okay. If it was the real reason, then the show would have been doing something right. They would be showing that something as serious and life changing as a miscarriage can bring two bickering women together. Instead, they use it as the fake version of Beatrice’s conscience production. Come on writers; you can do better than that!

This week’s Gossip Girl was definitely better than last’s, and I’m hoping the 100th episode starts off with a bang. We know there are going to be a few bruised egos (and hearts), guess we’ll just have to tune in to see whose. Also, if you haven’t seen the promo check it out here! Our favorite bad turned good girl is back, dear old Georgina.

– Xoxo Sunny

Sana Ashraf is a fashion writer and fashion show intern and is a junior at the University of Michigan. Sana loves reading fashion magazines, shopping sprees, city lights, color coordinated closets, and all four seasons.

What to Expect During Sorority Recruitment

If you are interested in joining a sorority at your school, you are going to first have to go through recruitment.  During the recruitment season, there are a few things to expect:

 

1)      Getting overwhelmed is ok and normal.  The events you attend are going to be overwhelming (in a good way).  Choosing which organization would be the match for you can be a tough decision.  Attending multiple events in one night or in a few days can seem like a lot to handle, but it hopefully will help you narrow down your choices.  I would encourage attending as many events as possible (from multiple organizations as well) because it will help you learn the most about each sorority, which can help you when you need to decide who you wish to join the most.  There are a lot of factors that go into this lifelong decision.

2)      You are going to meet a lot of new people.  You are going to meet a lot of new people in each organization.  Remembering names can be tricky, so really observe the women you talk to.  Don’t feel embarrassed if you have to ask her to refresh your memory.  Remember, they were once on your end too, so they can definitely relate to how you are feeling.  It’s ok if you become friends with an individual and do not wish to join her organization.  You can still be her friends, and rightfully should.  You are also going to get a lot of friend requests on Facebook.

3)      Hearing unfamiliar words, such as “Panhellenic,” “philanthropy,” “Bid Day,” and “PNM.”  The Panhellenic Council is the governing body of 26 recognized social sororities.  There is also “Pan-Hellenic,” which is equivalent to Panhellenic.  They each govern different social sororities.  A philanthropy is a service event that raises money for a specific cause.  For example, Alpha Sigma Tau’s national philanthropy is Pine Mountain Settlement School.  The various chapters of Alpha Sigma Tau hold different kinds of fundraisers and donate the proceeds to Pine Mountain.  Each sorority does multiple kinds of philanthropic work for a number of different philanthropies.  Bid Day is the day in which sororities can start handing out bids (bids are invitations to join a sorority).  You can receive a bid from multiple organizations, though you can only officially join one sorority.   “PNM” is a potential new member, which is what you are considered while going through recruitment.  A new member is someone who is a member of a sorority but has yet to be initiated.  Therefore, a potential new member is a person who is going through the recruitment process.

 

Though it is an overwhelming process, sorority recruitment is meant to be fun and enjoyable.

 

CL Beauty How To: Wear Red Lipstick

Red lipstick is a great look for almost any occasion, but one wrong move and you look like a toddler who got into her mother’s makeup. Avoid this mistake with this CL Beauty How-To, and rock red lips at your next party, or just to your Friday morning class.

 

1. Pick the right place. The most important part of wearing red lipstick is picking the right shade of red, so try before you buy! This is the time to bring a friend and ask the saleslady for help. Think Sephora, not CVS.

2. Choose the right red. Every major magazine has an article about how to choose the right red lipstick. This is where your friend and saleslady come in, because there’s so many different shades out there. In general, blue-based lipsticks work best with fair skin, while dark-skinned ladies should pick burgundy shades. (Think red wine.) In between? Go for what’s known as a ‘true red’ – try  looking at the shade name. It’s also helpful to keep the shape of your lips in mind when picking a color. Thin lips look better with lighter reds, while thick lips can handle darker ones.

3. Exfoliate. For long-lasting color, you want to make sure that your lips are smooth. Exfoliate with an old toothbrush or a lip scrub, like Fresh Brown Sugar Lip Polish. Pat on your favorite lip balm, and let set for a few minutes.

4. Use a lip brush. Yes, it’s sexy to watch a woman apply her lipstick directly. But with such a dramatic color, there’s just too much potential for failure. Use a lip brush, taking special care to avoid going outside the lipline. Fill in any messy sections with the stick. Try this one by Maybelline, only $5.69.

5. Wear lip gloss. This step is optional, but highly recommended. Wear a lip gloss in the exact shade as your lipstick for long-lasting color. If you prefer a matte look, just a hint of clear gloss in the center of your bottom lip will make your lips look fuller.

6. Finish the rest of your makeup. Red lips are the focus of this look,  so keep the rest of your face subtle. Focus on achieving a clear-looking complexion, and a strong brow for some balance. Pat on some beige shadow and mascara. If you’d like, in lieu of blush, dot your cheeks with the lipstick and blend well.

7. Be confident! Red lipstick draws a lot of attention. Smile graciously, and own it. Oh, and try to make sure it stays off your teeth.

Have you ever tried red lipstick? How was it? Let us know in the comments, or tweet us at @collegelifestyl !

Sasha Graffagna is a junior at NYU majoring in Journalism and Comparative Literature. She has worn red lipstick once or twice, and loved it.

Party Planning Basics: A CLassy Co-ed’s Guide

There comes a time in every CLassy Co-ed’s college career when she is faced with the challenge of planning the perfect party. Throwing and attending parties is just another part of college life and who doesn’t want their party to be fabulous? With the combined powers of planning and organization, your party can go off without a hitch. Follow these party-planning basics to throw a smashing event and avoid getting a host’s headache.

Choose a theme

Choosing a party theme is both the easiest and most important step of the party planning process. Sometimes, the theme has revealed itself before you even decide to have a party.

Let’s say, for example, you cannot wait for the release of the newest Twilight movie. Why not get all your fellow members of Team Edward together and watch the previous installments before going to the midnight premier? Perhaps Halloween is around the corner and you need to show of your amazing Nicki Minaj costume. Themes stem from whatever inspired you to have your party in the first place. The more specific the theme is, the easier it is to complete the rest of the planning steps so choose wisely. Once you have chosen a theme, decide how you can include it in the following party elements.

Get Organized

The next step is to make a “party essentials” checklist. Include items such as guests, food and drink, decorations, equipment and anything else you will need. Decide how the elements on your list are going to express your theme. When someone enters your party, the theme should be obvious. A well-executed theme will be reflected in multiple elements of the party such as the decorations, music, guest attire and food and drink. Search the web for DIY decorations, recipes and other ideas that fit your theme. Some helpful websites are:

• Pinterest.com
• MarthaStewart.com
• CollegeLifestyles.org

Once you’ve added the final touches to your list, decide on a budget. Choose a host (or two) to help make the party come to life.

 Who’s attending?

No one likes to party alone. That’s what we call a partying problem. It’s best to invite guests to your party.

Make a list of all the people who will enjoy your theme as much as you will. For example, it would be awkward to invite a Harry Potter-only fan to the Twilight party. The people at your party are a huge factor in determining the party’s mood, so be sure to invite people you and your hosts know will be a lot of fun, and know how to party responsibly.

Edibles and Drinkables

 After you have decided your theme and number of guests, decide what you’ll be serving at your party. Throwing a party without some sort of refreshments for guests is not very host like, plus, cooking is one of the most exciting parts of party preparation.

If you’re not providing a full meal, it’s nice to serve drinks and a light snack. Whether you’re serving a meal or appetizers, it’s vital know how many you’re feeding and how much food you’ll need. Nancys.com, the website of the party food experts, has a helpful party planning section that will help you determine your food-to-guest ratio and what to serve. Remember, serving food and drink may become costly. To save money, turn the party into a pot-luck event.  Ask individuals to sign up their ‘party creation’ on a Facebook page for added fun, variety, and food!

Location, Location, Location

You can’t have a party without a place to party. When scouting locations, think about how many people will be attending. If the place is too big, your party will feel empty. If the place is too small, your party will look well attended, but your guests will feel claustrophobic. If you’re having the party at someone’s house, be sure to get the OK from all the roommates because it’s important to respect people’s space. You may also want to talk to neighbors about noise levels. If you’re worried your neighbors will be bothered by your party, invite them and they will be having too much fun to complain! Once you find the perfect location make sure it will provide everything you need for your party such as a music system, a refrigerator and seating. Your location must support the items on your “party essentials” checklist.

You’re invited

 Get the word out well in advance, so your guests have time to clear their schedule for your event. Encourage guests to let you know for sure if they’re coming so you can be prepared to entertain the correct number of people. Remember the Facebook invite rule. “Attending” means “maybe attending,” “maybe attending” means “not attending,” and “not attending” means “why did you even bother inviting me in the first place?!” It’s easier to get a more accurate head count if you ask your guests if they’re coming in person, or by text, so the pressure’s on to give you an honest response. Make it known if guests are allowed to bring friends and significant others, and ask that you’re told in advance so you can add them to the guest list. Because college offers a wide variety of parties, be clear on what’s going on at your party. Is there going to be drinking? If so, is it BYOB or will drinks be provided? Do guests need to wear a costume or formal attire, or is it casual? Help your guests help your party go according to plan.

Party Time

Your party is finally here! Clear your schedule the day of the party, so you have time for set-up and any last minute errands. A few hours before your party, go over your checklist one last time to ensure yourself that everything is ready to go. Now, get ready, take a deep breath and be prepared to enjoy your party. Your organization, planning and hard work are going to pay off and your party to going to be a blast!

Alexandra Esposito is an intern at College Lifestyles ™ and a senior studying journalism and film at the University of Kansas. She is a Copy Chief for the University Daily Kansan and the Secretary Omega Phi Alpha at KU. In summer 2011, she interned with the editorial staff at Martha Stewart Weddings in New York City. 

Here’s How to Throw Your First 2012 DIY Glitz Party!

Saying farewell to 2011 may have been difficult for some, but for you classy and optimistic CL readers, one digit change calls for a celebration! If sequins and glitter are some of your favorite things, get ready for a glimmer overload. When you arrive back to campus, round up your friends for a second new year celebration! 2012 is upon us–start the year off right with a few glamorous CL tips.

Decor

1. Balloons – Take a trip to your local Walmart or dollar store and you’re bound to find a pack of gold, silver, or black balloons. If not–and you’re really eager to have these matte-colored party accessories–anything, including balloons, can be ordered from online. Let’s hear it for Amazon.com!

2. Time For Shine - Since glitzy means turning up the notches on vibrancy, why not create a sequined tablecloth? Get a few yards of sequined fabric (or any kind of shimmery fabric for that matter) at a fabric store. It can be any color you’d like, but if you’re sticking with a gold, silver, and black theme, choose your color(s) wisely.  And try your best to not make a mess–this cloth should be saved for future reference!

3. Shimmery Leftovers – Don’t worry about getting a little carried away at the fabric store. The remaining sparkly material from step two can be used all over the rest of your apartment. Tack it up on your walls, cut out some holes and turn it into a shower curtain, or even fold it up horizontally and lay it along the top of your couch.

4. Come Prepared – Let your friends know that they’ll need to bring a champagne glass along with them. A tasty CL-tini can be poured into it later, but first, they’ll use a permanent marker to write any goals that they wish to accomplish this year. Inexpensive champagne glasses are sold at any dollar store, and permanent markers can be found at any store where art supplies are sold. To add some character to the glasses, stock up on some glitter glue and assorted craft materials such as feathers.

Dress Up

Put your most glittery heel forward at this glitzy party! Take a few style cues from the following classy ladies:

Need more DIY help? Read Debra’s article for more glitz party tips!

Tiana Blue is a Senior Writer for College Lifestyles™. This fourth semester sophomore at Penn State is a print journalism major with a penchant for food, stilettos, and the city that never sleeps.

CL’s Top 10 Ways to Stay Fit While Studying Abroad

Remember the Freshman 15? There is a similar, lesser-known college-related weight gain: the Study Abroad 15. Y0u don’t think about it when you’re leaving, or even while you’re away. But suddenly, one day, you realize that your jeans are a little bit too tight, and that everyone in your program is just a little bit chubbier than they were at the beginning of this semester.. Avoid this aha moment by following these tips.

 

1. Pack right. It’s hard enough trying to find the motivation to exercise while studying abroad. Don’t complicate the situation by having to by workout gear too. Make sure to bring your regular workout wear with you, whether that’s sneakers or a swimsuit, cap, and goggles. The one thing you probably want to buy abroad is a yoga mat. Most countries will have them, and they take up too much room in your suitcase.

2. Sign up for a gym your first week. This sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people neglect to do this (myself included). You’ll be overwhelmed your first week, but signing up for a gym during this crucial time will ensure that exercise stays high on your priority list. Gym membership also encourages you to make good use of all that money you paid.

3. Take a class. An exercise class is a fun way to keep fit, adds routine to your hectic schedule, and holds you accountable to staying fit. Even if you don’t know the language, it’s easy to follow the movements in a Zumba or kickboxing class. And if you’re studying the language, you can practice with other native speakers i.e. your classmates.

4. Drink responsibly. Studying abroad, for many college students, means finally being able to drink legally. Not to burst your bubble, but drinking that often also means consuming tons of empty calories. Try sticking to light beer, dry white or red wine, champagne, and low-calorie cocktails. (Think gin and tonic, not a chocolate martini.) Also, stick to 1 or 2 shots a night.

5. Drink responsibly, part 2. Speaking of empty calories, soda and juice are exactly that, and they don’t even provide you with the buzz that alcohol does. Buy a canteen, fill it with water, and carry it around with you. It’s cheaper, and better for you. As for coffee, stick with the classic drinks, not frothy Frappuccinos. The coffee probably tastes better anyway.

6. Vacation wisely. When my friends and I went to Mendoza last semester, we went on a wine tour by bicycle. Look for good-for-you options like this one on your own vacations. Think winter sports, hiking, or bike tours for the more urban-minded.

7. Treat yourself, but wisely. It is likely that you will find a treat that you find yourself wanting every day, whether that is gelato in Italy or macaroons in France. It’s OK to indulge yourself once in a while, but eating them all the time is overdoing it. A good way to control your intake is to only eat these sweets on the weekends.

8. Chew 10 times.  If you follow nothing else on this list, follow this one. It takes time for your body to communicate to your brain that it’s full. So eating more slowly means that you eat less. This alone won’t keep you fit, but it helps a lot.

9. Walk around. You may take a car everywhere in the US, but follow the locals’ lead while you’re away. This likely means walking and public transport. Also, see if the city that you’re studying in has a free bike share – another fun, easy way to get fit.

10. Keep a food journal. While you’re abroad, you’ll be trying lots of new food. By keeping a food journal, you’ll be able to remember what you liked, and what you really really didn’t. It also helps you keep track of what you’re eating, so you can balance your super-heavy dinner with a light lunch the next day.

Need more advice for studying abroad? Check out our guides on what to pack, and how to stay stylish on your flight over!

Sasha Graffagna is a current junior at NYU studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She studied abroad in Argentina last semester, and will be studying in Puerto Rico this semester.

CL goes to the Shopaholic event at Puerto Rico

On November 20 in San Juan, Puerto Rico there was the Shopaholic Black Sunday Edition in the Puerto Rico Convention Center. I bought a ticket, I went, I shopped, and I put together a list a Pros and Cons for this type of events.

Want to know if they are worth it?   Let’s start with the bad news:

Cons

• Patience, patience, patience; and buckets of it.  There are a lot of people in a tight space, you have to be willing to wait your turn, say excuse me many times and maybe be pushed and shoved around.
• Trying on clothes: you have to be prepared to try on clothes behind a curtain in close quarters.
• May lose some money: You pay less than $10 for a ticket for something that you don’t know what to expect. You have to take the risk of going there, not liking anything and losing time and $5-$10.
• No place for guys: At least this year they had no men clothing only some watches and t-shirts but not a lot to choose from.
• Last season: It is also evident that most of the items sold at these events are the ones that are on sale because most of them are their summer inventory that they are trying to get rid of.

Now to what we liked:

Pros

• Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize: It is a good place for buying accessories, because you don’t have to try them on. This was the only thing that I actually bought. Some hand made accessories: a necklace and some bracelets for Christmas gifts. I was able to find a great family owned online shop. http://creacionesmichelle.com/

They were all very sweet and I was able to find cute and simple hand-made accessories. They ship to Puerto Rico and the US.

• Be different: Because they are all boutiques you can find something different that you are not going to find in a department store. They had pretty cocktail dresses good for a holiday party and you don’t have to worry about finding someone else with your same outfit.
• Easy way to compare prices, just walk to the next booth.
• Everything is less than $50
• You can notice some trends: I saw many tribal and Hindu inspired prints and shapes.
• Great way to find cheap vintage clothing.
• Find a new favorite store: a great way to meet boutiques all in one place you wouldn’t have known otherwise.
• Helping others:  a team of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society had a table at the event selling chocolate lollipops, pins, bracelets and more to raise money for blood cancer research. A little boy and his mom were raising money for this amazing cause. If you want to learn more about leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improving the quality of life of patients and their families go to http://www.lls.org/#/ Also, if you want to donate and help this family in their goal of raising $3,100 please visit http://pages.teamintraining.org/sfl/wdw12/nboscio

 

 

Monica Perez is  a senior at the University of Puerto Rico majoring in Communications Public Relations and Advertising. She loves chocolate, animals, traveling, art, books, fashion and her family.

CL’s Top Ten Simple Sorority Fundraisers

Fundraisers are a great way for sisters to spend time and work together, to get your chapter’s name recognized on campus (especially right before registration for spring recruitment!), and to raise money for your causes and house. Here are CL’s top ten fundraising ideas for your chapter.

Yankee Candle. This is an especially good a idea right before the holidays, when people are looking for gifts for new friends and co-workers. Plus, your chapter will receive a large percentage of the profit (right now, 40 percent).

Taco Bell.If there is a Taco Bell anywhere near your campus, partner up with them tor a fundraiser. Station your table in the dorms between 12 and 3 a.m., and students studying late in the library for finals or returning from a long night of partying will have you selling it all (for $2 apiece) fast!

Dirt. This simple dessert is delicious and, priced at $1, will have people coming to your table all day.

 Buffalo Chicken Dip. Um, yum! This dip is always a big hit. Sell it for between $1 and $3 dollars with some chips.

Nachos and Cheese. Similar concept to the Buffalo Chicken Dip fundraiser, but much cheaper to make. Price for a plate is $1.50.

Cupcake Sale. Simple and sweet, frost them with your sorority’s colors, and people will definitely remember you. If the cupcakes are small, $0.50. If they are regular size, $1.

 

Full-fledged Bake Sale. Sell the cupcakes for the prices listed above. Take size into consideration for cookies as well. Brownies, $0.50. Cake, figure out how expensive the ingredients were and base the price off of that.

Coffee and Hot Chocolate. A real winner during the holiday and final seasons, keep some cream, sugar and whipped cream on standby. $1.00 per cup.

A Raffle. Most organizations are more than happy to give away a raffle item (it’s good PR for them). So, find out what students on campus are interested in, find a company that supports or provides that interest, write to them about your fundraising opportunity and bam – you have a fundraiser.

Chocolate. Terrific around Valentine’s Day. Find out who the student’s favorite local chocolate maker is (for us, it was Sarris Candies) and pair up with them

A Tip from Alpha Sigma Tau, Beta Delta Chapter’s Fundraising Chair Teresa Conde: If you need an amount raised by each girl, take the amount total amount of money raised during the fundraiser and divide it by how many girls worked that fundraiser. This turns it into a sort of “hourly wage.” For example, if you raised $25 and there were 8 girls working, each girl would earn $3 an hour.

Other tips:

Place your fundraising table in the dorms (especially the freshmen ones!), in the student union, and, if you are allowed, in the library.

Make sure your sign is large, colorful, and has the price in big, bold print.

Stay strong, even when things get slow. If you haven’t had a customer in over an hour, call your chair for a decision.

Be gracious and classy to all of your customers.

Have other fundraising ideas or tips? Let us know! Fill out a comment below.

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