By: Holly Kelsey-Henry For more than 20 years, the McKechnie family has owned and operated the largest party and balloon supply store in Duluth. Their long standing experience, professionalism and commitment to customer service have made the business the go-to, one-stop shop for all things celebratory.
Lady Ocalat: Spirits Welcome

By Staff Writer From the moment you walk in to Lady Ocalat’s Emporium you feel welcome and all of your senses awaken. Beautiful, energetic music is playing that lifts the spirit, a subtle floral incense is burning, and a wide assortment of books, crystals, figurines, and cards are there for […]
Northland Special Events: Trusted Expertise on Your Special Day
By: Holly Kelsey-Henry When Northland Special Events owner and Principal Event Specialist, Mariah McKechnie unwittingly launched her business in 2010 from the back of a mini-van, she had no idea how hugely successful it would become.
Hot Diggity Hot Dog Bar
Looking for a fun idea for a Grad Party, Reunion, Fourth of July or almost any other kind of party?
Bigger Events Need Better Planning

A Personnel Plan to Help You with Your Organization By Tracy Lundeen Here are some staffing details to think about when planning a bigger outdoor event.
Mothering is the Necessity of Event Planning
By Angie Simonson Show me a mom, and I’ll show you an event planner. What’s that old saying… Mothering is a the necessity of event planning? It’s starts innocently with little family birthday parties, and then as your children enter school it balloons into full blown friend parties and sleep-overs, and […]
Choosing a Wedding Officiate
You’re engaged! Amidst the hugs and flurry of excited congratulations from family and friends you’re asked about the date of the ceremony, a venue for the service and reception and what kind of dress you’re hoping to find. All very legitimate questions and ones that many couples can answer because […]
Do I need security for my event?
By Rick Minotte Although not always required, all too often security is overlooked when planning an event of any kind. Most people believe that they can keep their event/reception organized and secure without any outside help. Even the most organized person will be overwhelmed when the caterer […]
Tom & Shana’s Tom & Jerry Mix
Makes approximately 3 cups 3 eggs, separated (use pasteurized whole eggs) 1/8 tsp salt ½ cup soft butter 3 ½ cup powdered sugar ½ tsp vanilla ½ tsp nutmeg and/or ground cloves (optional) To serve: hot milk nutmeg (optional) brandy, rum, or spiced rum Beat egg whites until soft peaks […]
Grandma Johnson’s Gingersnap Cookies
3/4 cup margarine 1 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1/4 cup molasses 2 cups flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons soda 1 teaspoon each of: ginger, cinnamon, cloves Combine margarine, sugar and egg, beat. Add molasses and beat well. Add combined dry ingredients and mix well Chill dough Shape into […]
