The Conciergerie

Spring is Springing- HOUSE-SITTING PROMO

2011-02-01T14:59:00.000-08:00

I was just out poking around in the yard when I noticed little green buds on many of my plants.

Clear winter days like today make me want to take a picture of the blue sky to remind myself that it still exists above all the grey clouds.

Usually, my husband and I have a vacation planned during these dark days of winter to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (that's our excuse anyway). We're sticking around this winter, so instead of sunning on the beach, I sit in my warm car, let the sun beat down on me through the window and pretend.

As a way to encourage you sun-seekers to go on vacation, I am offering a house-sitting promotion. Get four visits to your house, for the price of three. Please call me for details, as every client & situation are unique. Also, if you refer a friend to me, you will get a $10 coffee card.

A wild bunny just ran across the yard. Spring is springing!

Did you draw the short straw? Delegate your Holiday Party Planning

2010-10-25T13:56:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you volunteer, other times someone else, like your spouse or your boss, volunteers on your behalf. "Thanks boss, but I don't have time to organize 200 kids on paint-a-mural day."

If you find yourself over-committed and in need of assistance planning an event, give us a call to see how we can help. From decorating and theme ideas, to sourcing the perfect caterer (even if it's a pizza delivery), we can help make your event as you imagined.

We also work with a cleaning service to clean your home or office before and after the event.

If you have volunteer-fatigue, delegate!

House-Sitting: Is it time to Winterize your Sprinkler System?

2010-10-25T11:59:00.000-07:00

I'm watching tall, tall trees bend in the fall wind as pine needles and fire-colored maple leaves confetti the back yard.

In no fear of drought, it's almost time to winterize your sprinkler system if you have one, hide the lawn furniture and brace for a la Nina winter (or so I've heard.)

If you are heading out of town this fall or winter and you need us to keep an eye on your home and take in the mail, send us a smoke signal. We can also arrange landscaping and yard upkeep in your absence.

Happy Anniversary to The Conciergerie!

2010-08-04T10:49:00.000-07:00

October marks our 3rd Anniversary here at The Conciergerie and we are very excited to share it with you, our busy, inspirational, energetic clients.

We know we have competition for our services and we realize that you can usually manage your own tasks, but we appreciate having the opportunity to run errands for you, keep an eye on your house when you're out of town and give you more time each day. Thank you for your business!

Looking back to my time as an administrator at Microsoft, I vividly remember how busy everyone on my team was. From business trips and deadlines, to family and other personal commitments, it seemed like everyone needed an extra hand.

In October 2007, I had the opportunity to change my career, allowing me to care for my daughter at home and create a service-based, on-call, personal assistant firm.

For the last three years, I have loved working with people who proactively engage The Conciergerie. Our clients tend to be dynamic and creative; particularly entrepreneurs who must also be this way in their own line of work.

So, thank you to YOU for keeping me inspired to do better for all my clients and focus on the services you need. As always, if I can't solve your problem, I'll find someone who can.

Welcome, Baby!

2010-08-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

I admit that I have been hibernating like a bear and nesting like a... well, bird the last couple months in preparation for the birth of my second daughter.

My baby, Opal was born on October 8th and since then, our family has been getting to know her. Relatives and friends have been stopping by to enjoy the "new baby smell" and sneak a peek at her tiny toes.

Thank you to everyone who has sent their well-wishes!

High-Swing of Summer!

2010-08-04T10:13:00.001-07:00

Weather-wise, it's been a pretty mild summer here in the Pacific Northwest. We've had some beautiful days, but even now, in early August, the best time of year, the sky is gray in the mornings and the clouds burn off by the afternoon.

On a positive note, we can wear less sunscreen and water the plants a little less too.

As usual, the retail stores foreshadow the upcoming season. Back to School and even Halloween decorations are already prevalent.

Personally, I'm preparing my 3 1/2 year old for her first day of Pre-School. She has a few school clothes and she's ready to hit the books (kid code for finger paint and play at recess). She is also looking forward to becoming a big sister in early October.

The Conciergerie will continue to accept clients who need house-sitting, event planning, errands and research managed. We have a close-knit, dedicated staff ready to give you the personalized attention you need to wrap up your summer and prepare you and your family for fall.

Online Networking

2010-07-15T21:36:00.001-07:00

We want to connect with you!

We have recently created an active Facebook account to offer reviews of restaurants and destinations through www.Yelp.com.

To "friend" us, type "Seattle Conciergerie" into the Facebook search bar.

You can also see what we've been reviewing by going directly to TheConciergerie.yelp.com

And of course you can read our "public" Twitter account http://twitter.com/TheConciergerie

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

A Smilebox slide show with photos by Christy Trotto Photography

Summer Promotion

2010-06-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

Are you planning a summer vacation and need the plants watered a few times while you travel?

Break out the beach towels!

We are offering a free hour of service to any new, house-sitting clients on the Eastside.

Mention this blog post on our website to become eligible.

New, Pared-Down Conciergerie

2010-06-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that our service page has been pared-down a bit. Since opening our doors in October 2007, we have worked hard to learn what our clients need and our listed services are a reflection of this.

You need someone to care for your home while you travel or work abroad.

You need a hand with errands from time to time.

You need help planning and hosting special events.

We are happy to provide these services and focus on the tasks our clients need most. Of course, if you need your concierge to find a pet sitter or contractor, we can still assist. Just let us know what you're looking for and we'll be pleased to manage your mischief.

Professional Handbag Cleaning

2010-06-01T20:09:00.000-07:00

While searching for a professional handbag cleaner for a client, I came across some information that might be interesting to my readers.

Typically, high-end purses come with care instructions, but if your purse needs special attention, you may try calling the retail establishment that sold you the bag to see if they offer maintenance.

Nordstrom no longer offers a handbag cleaning service.

Martini Cleaners in Seattle (206) 244-2478 offers this service. They typically charge $60 for a leather purse and $90 for a canvass bag.

You may also find that your local dry cleaner offers a handbag cleaning service, depending on the material in which your bag is made.

Good luck!

Seaside, Oregon Wedding

2010-03-10T15:58:00.000-08:00

We had a blast planning this unforgettable, destination wedding in Seaside, Oregon last year.

We can't take credit for the gorgeous setting, salty sea air and panoramic views, but we are proud to say we coordinated the catering, serving staff, DJ, table and chair rentals, cupcakes, clean-up crew, officiant, decorations, (pirate-themed) rehearsal dinner, wedding and more.

Take a look!

We only assist with a handful of weddings per year. If you are looking for an assistant the day-of, or full-service wedding planning, call us today for a free consultation.

Seattle Magazine: 61 Ways to Get It Done

2010-03-09T23:17:00.000-08:00

We are so excited about Seattle Magazine's March issue!

Sometimes it's easy to identify your needs, but difficult to find the right person to assist. You need your closet cleaned. Is there such a thing as a closet cleaning expert? You need a make-up artist who makes house calls. Where can you find one? Seattle Magazine's "61 Ways to Get It Done" can point you in the right direction.

While the article mentions a West Seattle-based personal assistant, The Conciergerie offers the same, time-saving services on the Eastside.

"Personal Errand Runner
West Seattle-based... personal concierge service, specializes in freeing up time. One call and the dog will be walked, the groceries bought, the duplicate gifts returned and the thank-you notes mailed. Especially attractive are the relocation package, with which all home utilities are set up after your move (no more waiting for the cable guy!), and the new mom package, which can include services such as arranging for meal delivery, running errands and even planning baby's first birthday."

At The Conciergerie, we take care of the things you don't have time to manage and if we can't help, we find someone who can. We also offer referrals to home contractors, real estate agents and landscaping companies as a courtesy to our clients.

We are located on the Eastside and service (mostly)
- Kirkland
- Redmond
- Sammamish
- Bellevue
- Issaquah

Among many other services, we offer house-sitting, errand management and event planning. If you need an extra hand, or a few more hours in the day, contact us today and we'll make it happen.

Seattle Magazine: 61 Ways to Get it Done

18 Days Until Valentine's Day... Start Planning!

2010-01-27T21:58:00.000-08:00

We encourage you to shop at local boutiques this Valentine's day.

Go traditional with flowers and chocolate.

Fena Flowers is our unique favorite (they deliver, of course) and for salted caramel chocolates, visit Fran's Chocolates in Old Bellevue.

Have a trendy Valentine's day at The Bravern.

Pair a romantic dress with silky chocolate Trophy Cupcakes (dessert first, of course) and on to dinner at John Howie Steakhouse.

Go under the radar and cozy up at The Heathman Hotel in Kirkland.

You can't go wrong with a chocolate truffle and rose petal turndown. Grab some of the world's best coffee at Zoka in the morning.

And don't forget the baubles!

Keep it simple with pearl earrings or go crazy at Turgeon Raine . (I know Blue Nile isn't a local boutique, but to make the most of your money, it's a good start.)

This post is in no way, a hint to my husband... Truly!

Whatever you do, do not wait until the week before Valentine's day to make dinner reservations.

Knee Deep in Wedding Season!

2010-01-27T12:59:00.000-08:00

This time of year rolls around and we are reminded of the weddings we were coordinating last year and the year before... the romance, the planning, the (organized) chaos!

All our spring wedding slots are booked and we are so excited to be a part of these amazing events!

We are only accepting one more summer wedding.

Brides, if you are planning the Big Day on your own, but need a hand tying up loose ends, picking up/ dropping off and are coming to the realization that you need a person dedicated to your needs the day of, contact us asap to see if we are the right fit for you.

Congratulations to all you lovebirds out there!

Delegate Your New Year's Resolutions

2009-12-22T16:21:00.001-08:00

Outsmart yourself this January by delegating your pesky New Year's resolutions.

Admittedly, we can't go to the gym or eat better for you, but we can give you more time to do these things for yourself.

We can also help you complete unfinished projects around your home or office.

"I have been trying to get shelving up in our master bedroom closet for a year, but never got around to it," says a client. "I'm enlisting my personal assistant to finish this and get our closet in order."

Another client says, "For years, I have been meaning to get the birthdays and anniversaries of my loved ones onto a calendar and make a file of corresponding greeting cards. That way I can just pull a card and pre-addressed envelope out, sign it and toss it in the mail. It's kind of a process, but once it's done, it will last for years. I'm having my personal assistant manage my greeting card file."

Another busy client confides, "There are a couple errands I have to do every month and I really don't like doing them. I'm going to have my personal assistant run these errands this year and when I call her to set them up, I'll add a few other things I need done. I'm already looking forward to not having to worry about the "small stuff" and getting some time back for myself."

Don't forget about your resolutions by February 1st, conquer them with our help.

What is Your Time Worth?

2009-12-22T15:53:00.001-08:00

You know you're busy, but how much is your time truly worth?

Enter your information into MSN Money's calculator and find out how much an hour of your leisure costs.

Are you thinking of hiring someone to manage your drycleaning, home organizing and errands?
We're ready to help.

Seasonal House-Sitting

2009-11-17T21:49:00.000-08:00

Planning to hit the road for an extended period?

We offer seasonal house-sitting on a weekly basis. We stop in and check on your home or property as often as you see fit. We can check your security alarm, your vehicles, pick up the mail and much more.

As a boutique firm, we offer personalized service. You get the same personal assistant every time you need a hand.

Call today for a free consultation to see if we are the right fit for you.

"...We felt relieved knowing that you were checking on our house while we were Maui last year during the winter storm. We're not afraid of booking our winter getaway this December!"

Decorating for the Holidays

2009-11-17T21:42:00.000-08:00

You love decorating for the holidays. You know what you want done around the house, you just need an extra pair of hands.

We string lights, or finish the Christmas shopping; whatever you need to accomplish your goals.

Call today to schedule your Christmasification!

Radar Lake Events

2009-10-07T14:41:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce our new partnership with Radar Lake Events.

Guests at Radar Lake will now have 24/7 access to their own, personal assistant from The Conciergerie.

Radar Lake

Need a bottle of wine? A surprise party planned? A gourmet dinner delivered? We have you covered.

Radar Lake Events has also partnered with Dupar Catering and Welcome Home Gift Company.

Press release from Radar Lake Events (pasted below).

After 36 years, Radar Events, LLC is excited to announce the opening of Radar Lake to the public.
We invite you to water ski, wakeboard, stay at the cozy log cabin, host a business or social event or say your "I Do's" on over 120 acres of majestic grounds and breathtaking views.
Radar Lake is considered one of the first man-made water sport lakes on the planet. This is where you will discover Radar Lake and its spectacular setting first hand, nestled in the foothills of Redmond, close to the city, yet secluded by nature.
It has been part of hundreds of professional titles, numerous world records, world champions and the world's most legendary ski shapes in modern design.
We invite you to host your event and wakeboard with us where you will find eternal glass waters and solitude.
View more at radarlakeevents.com.

Thinking Ahead to Holiday Cards

2009-10-07T13:52:00.000-07:00

It may seem too soon, but if it's your responsibility to send holiday greeting cards to your family and friends, or on behalf of your business, it's time to start planning.

Custom cards should be ordered by October 31st which will give you, your family members, or your staff time to add their personal greeting and signature.

At The Conciergerie, we manage holiday greeting card projects from start to finish, including a festive postage stamp and dropping them in the mail.

Our favorites are custom cards made by local, independent artists. With a tailor-made image on the front and a custom, printed greeting inside, these cards are remarkably inexpensive and add a touch of originality that you can't get online through a corporate card website.

We also love family photos on Christmas cards. We can offer a hand facilitating your photos. Our photographer meets you at your home or in a local park. You will have a full CD of shots to choose from. Grandma and Grandpa will love fresh photos!

Whether you call us, or look forward to sending out holiday cards yourself, we encourage you to start the process in October.

More Time With Family

2009-10-07T13:49:00.000-07:00

My how time flies!

I measure time by how many new words my 2 1/2 year-old says each day. Seven days ago, she wasn't asking to hear particular songs on my itouch or holding the lid on her teapot while having a tea party. Every morning she looks taller, but every night she still wants to snuggle while we read bedtime stories. I tuck the memory of these little moments away and pull them out like photographs.

This fall, Conciergerie clients have been on the move; making plans, getting ready for vacations, tying up loose ends and even preparing for Christmas. Our personal assistants have been house sitting, running errands, planning parties and much more.

Our aim is to give you more time with your loved ones this fall, so you have the luxury of pulling memories out and sharing them, maybe with a friend, at a coffee shop.

Eating Gluten-Free

2009-05-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

What's all the fuss about gluten-free foods?

Is eating gluten-free a food trend or new recession diet? Is it a preservative like MSG or is specifying gluten-free just a way to customize meals?

Gluten, as I recently learned, is a protein that generates problems for the 1% of people with Celiac Disease, an autoimmune disorder causing fatigue and less desirable symptoms.

Savory Moment, formerly Month of Meals, located in Redmond offers a full line of gluten-free, chef-prepared meals on the go.

All of Savory Moment's meals are 100% customizable to accommodate food preferences and allergies. Meals can be delivered anywhere in Washington and servings average under $7 per person. You can order online through their website and even order holiday meals.

Our clients have ordered from Month of Meals when they are extra-busy, so they always have a heat and eat, gourmet meal in the freezer. Our medium-sized business clients order meals for employees recovering from surgery or after a new baby has arrived. Others rely on Savory Moment for catering small parties in their home.

Additional Gluten-Free Resources:
Garlic Jim's Pizza- Redmond
Davinci's Gluten Free Bakery- Seattle
Gluten Free Registry lists local restaurants helping the cause

If you need help planning a gluten-free event or placing an order at Savory Moment, please let us know!

Relocation Made Easy

2009-05-27T16:18:00.000-07:00

Selling your house and moving away? It's one of the most stressful times in your life, but with our help, it doesn't have to be.

Like a well-oiled machine, our staff assists with packing, cleaning and following up with the loose ends that inevitably arise.

We work with Chipman Relocations to move your bulky belongings and safely crate your high-value items.

Regardless of whether it's a local or long distance move, you will feel confident that your possessions will arrive safely in your new home as you prepare for your next adventure in life.

3 Scrapbooking Solutions for Busy People

2009-05-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

by Alyssa Hagen

Sometimes the best way for me to start a scrapbooking project is to clear a space for the task at hand, gather my supplies, pour a cup of coffee and research page layouts.

I find inspiration in the scrapbooking magazines and I'm quickly motivated to dive right in to my project, not just because it's a fun hobby that allows me to be creative, but because I'm always so behind! My two-year-old daughter isn't slowing down and neither are the digital photos taken by her grandparents.

If you are in the same boat, read on to learn about three ways busy people can scrapbook.

There are many scrapbooking resources available, but I have found that Close to my Heart is a great resource for traditional book making and Creative Memories is ideal for Digital Scrapbooking.

1. Use Themed Kits

Close to my Heart produces idea books with layout variations showcasing their huge collection of scrapbooking and stamping supplies. They have made scrapbooking faster and easier by offering themed kits and pre-printed layouts. If you are a beginner, you may be interested in their newly released, hardbound book "Wishes" which gives step-by-step directions for scrapping techniques.

2. Go Digital

If you are looking for a way to manage your own scrapbooking without getting your fingers sticky, you may be interested in Digital Scrapbooking. Creative Memories allows you to use their templates, upload your photos and when you're done, your book is mailed to you. You can make a scrapbook of a family trip and order a copy for everyone, or document a sports team and give the books away as gifts at the end of the season. You save money by not having to buy supplies, and you have a professionally printed and bound book as a result.

3. Delegate it

If you are interested in scrapbooking and need to catch up on an unfinished project, or you have materials, but lack the confidence to make the pages look good, we can help. Our personal assistants do the things you don't have time to do. Call us today to discuss your artistic strategy and creative challenges.

Regardless of your preference for traditional or digital scrapbooking, we can help you get started and more importantly, finished with your memory book!