We walk through the rooms of a storm soaked apartment in Houston, Texas, as Mary, a twenty-plus-year resident of Nob Hill Apartments, points out the items she hopes she can keep, but we can clearly see are lost. The safety masks covering our mouths and noses do nothing to block the rank smell of stagnant flood water and growing mold. The air in the apartment is warm and humid, the air outside buzzing with mosquitos preying on the exposed skin of anyone walking through the community working to salvage what they can from the wake of Hurricane Harvey. Even with the flood waters receded, we feel the sense of loss that weighs heavy as a storm cloud over the apartment community we’ve come to serve.

We try to prepare Mary for the worst—the disheartening fact that most of her worldly possessions must be declared casualties of the hurricane’s destructive force. But Mary’s determination outweighs our own, and pushes us in a new direction. Where we strive to prepare her for despair, she insists upon building us up with hope. And as we tell her we will help her as best we can, she leaves us with these words: “When I was a child, my teacher told me that the good deeds you do are added as stars to your crown in heaven. Your crowns are going to be full of all the stars in the heavens.”

***

Our group of volunteers left Arizona in the early hours of September 6 to make our way to Houston. Our team was made up of multifamily housing team members from Bella Investment Group in Flagstaff, AZ, who had committed to partner with Apartment Life, an organization that places CARES Teams within apartment communities to “look for ways to love their neighbors as themselves.” We have often seen the outpouring of love CARES Teams deliver to the residents of our Bella communities—now was our chance to take the CARES mission upon ourselves and make a difference in the lives of those impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

After spending Wednesday evening assembling and loading U-Haul trucks with Resident Recovery Kits, we headed into the community on Thursday to see where we could help. As we approached Nob Hill Apartments, a 1300+ unit apartment community situated on Brays Bayou in the Meyerland suburb, we saw streets lined with debris and abandoned furniture, clothing, toys, even cars—all casualties of the surging flood waters. Nob Hill is where we met Mary, along with dozens of other residents who were packing up what they could to leave the community many of them called home. We expected the despair in the faces of the people of the community to match the destruction we saw in the streets. But where we expected despair, we saw hope.

One of the first young men we spoke to assured us that he had not been hit “too bad” by Harvey’s destructive power. “For me, it wasn’t as bad as for other folks,” he told us as we walked through one section of Nob Hill. “Other people got it much worse.” I learned later that for him, “not too bad” meant he “only” lost his car and about half of the possessions in his apartment. He counted himself lucky, despite his losses, and assured us that now that he knew we were there, he would help us find people who needed more help than he did. And he was true to his word. He eagerly came to us with the names and addresses of neighbors who could “really use your help,” and seemed overjoyed to be what he considered a “small part” of our work. The misery we expected seemed to have receded with the flood waters, and in its place love, humanity, and hope had blossomed.

For the CARES team in Houston, the Relief Kits and resources they handed out seemed like only a “drop in the bucket” of the recovery that needed to be done in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. An office team member, who had been pulled from a different property to assist at Nob Hill, described her efforts of pointing residents toward resources and gathering contact information from those who needed to move as “a drop in the bucket” compared to what she felt the people around her needed and the losses she knew they had endured. Even as we gave resources, monies, and hugs to those we met, we began to say that we knew it was only “a drop in the bucket” for those who had lost so much so quickly.

Yet the enduring power of hope outshined our perspective. The more people we met, the more we got the sense that in creating for themselves a sense of normalcy even among lost possessions, abandoned homes, and more, the residents of this community were finding something beyond the despair we saw on the news. Make no mistake—there remains much to be done to restore what has been lost in these communities devastated by the storms. But even beyond the knowledge of loss is the hope of helping hands. We saw donations from across the country pooled together to fan the flames of this hope. We witnessed police cars lining the streets from around the country to lend aid and relief to first responders who had not yet even had the chance to assess and accept their personal losses. We saw barbecue fundraisers and Red Cross vans delivering lunches and dinners on a daily basis where they were needed most. We saw neighbor reaching out to neighbor to lighten each other’s loads. And we saw tears of sorrow become tears of joy as people heard how far folks had come to help.

“To help me?” one woman said to me, stepping back in shock from a tight hug when I told her we had flown in from Arizona. “Y’all came all this way just to help me?”

“We know it’s just a drop in the bucket,” I found myself saying, but she cut me off.

“A drop in the bucket?” she gasped, clasping my hands in her own. “Child, it’s the whole ocean!”

I left Houston with news of the impending impact of Hurricane Irma ringing in the background on every television set we passed from our hotel lobby to the airport terminal. In the shadows of yet another destructive storm, it’s hard to ignore that there remains so much need along the Gulf Coast as residents there work to rebuild. Hurricane Harvey’s impact will be felt in this area for months, if not years, to come.

But even in the shadows of these destructive storms crashing upon our shores and cities, we see the silver linings illuminated by the selfless acts of people who keep their heads held high, their spirits lifted, and the hopes of their communities blazing against the dark times ahead. We can all be a part of bringing hope to these communities. Apartment Life continues to raise funds for relief efforts for both Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma. The Red Cross continues to step up their efforts to prepare and provide relief. Countless other organizations are out there, waiting for each of us to step up and impact lives by being beacons of hope in the midst of despair.

Please join us in supporting the ongoing relief efforts, and make your own "drop in the bucket" contribution to those impacted by this year's hurricane storms:

Donations for Apartment Life Harvey Relief Kits: https://tiny.cc/alharvey

Donations for Apartment Life Irma Relief Kits: https://tiny.cc/alirma

The post Beacons of Hope in the Midst of Despair: A Local Hurricane Harvey Relief Story appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

Here at Pine View Village Apartments, we're proud to be part of the Flagstaff community … and that means giving back when and where we can! This month, your Pine View Village crew was proud to give back to the Second Chance Center for Animals with a day of volunteering!

Second Chance has served as a "rescue from the rescues" through a partnership with over 30 organizations across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. Their vision of making sure every dog and cat in Northern Arizona has a home has led to the adoption of so many animals into welcoming "fur-ever" homes! Their partnership with the Coconino Humane Association has saved the lives of at-risk animals who may have otherwise faced euthanasia. During our volunteer day, we were able to paint part of their facility and provide doggy (and puppy!) baths!

Second Chance recently made the decision to pull back some of its offerings, but have encouraged volunteers to support the Coconino Humane Association. We've also been happy to partner with Coconino Humane to sponsor some of our favorite resident events: Rent A Puppy!

Looking to adopt a new "fur-ever" friend? Because Second Chance must empty the shelter by May 1st, they are currently waiving adoption fees on ALL homeless animals! Be sure to stop by the Welcome Center to learn about our animal policies before adopting … Then head HERE to learn more about how to bring home your furry friend between now and April 30th!

To learn how you can help animals in Flagstaff, visit the Coconino Humane Association's Volunteer Page! It's just one small way you can help work "meow-icals" and make a "paw-sitive" difference right here in Flagstaff!

The post Pine View Village Gives Back: Second Chance Center & Coconino Humane Association appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

You can’t spell “HOME” without “om,” a unique meditative phrase sometimes interpreted as “that with which one is liberated.” If nothing else, we hope your apartment home is a place where you feel free to be you … or, even more simply, a sanctuary where you feel free, period. Here are five ways to create the sanctuary of “om” in your own apartment home!

1. Clear your mind

… And your space. Clutter is a huge energy suck in your home. We all know the familiar impulse to hold on to things because we might need them someday, we’ll convinced they’ll increase in value, they have sentimental value, or the dreaded “just in case.” But consider how much space those “just in case” items are taking up … and how stressed your clutter can make you on a daily basis! Take time today to clear away clutter, especially from desktop surfaces and your major relaxation spaces. Consider donating or regifting the items you no longer need; not only will you decrease stress, but the act of giving things away is an instant mood enhancer!

2. Create your zone

Find a space that you can make your own private refuge. Whether it’s a special spot on the couch, your bed, your favorite spot to sip your morning coffee, or the bathtub, we all need a place in our home that is private and personalized. Find a way to define that personal space, be it with an item (a guitar, a special chair, a beautiful rug, etc.) or an extra touch of coziness (extra pillows, bath salts, a scented candle, etc.). Find ways to make that area distinctly yours, even if you can’t create physical separation from the rest of your apartment. Consider the impact of draping your favorite blanket over your favorite chair in your favorite reading nook … that spot is yours, and no one else’s, even if it’s smack dab in the middle of your living room!

3. Here comes the sun

“Let the sun shine … Let the sunshine in!” Natural sunlight boosts your mood and health, and can totally change the feel of a room. Whenever you can, let in as much sunlight as possible. Consider natural daylight bulbs if your apartment doesn’t naturally face direct sunlight during the day. Crack open a window and let in the fresh air … soak it in!

4. Color your calm

Add pops of your favorite colors to every room. Pick a color theme that creates the mood you want in each space of your apartment. Even if you’re in a studio, you can create distinct mood places through color: deeper shades wherever your bed is, brighter colors in the living room, softer hues for a spa-experience in the bathroom, etc. Greens are serene. Blue is restful. According to Feng Shui, 2017 is the Year of the Rooster, so consider this year’s “lucky” colors: yellow, brown, gold, silver, and white!

5. Sent-sational

Have you ever heard of signature scents? Many hotels feature specially crafted scents as you enter the lobby or your room to create an instant sense of place. You can bring this same sense to your own space by identifying, claiming, or creating your own signature scent. Flagstaff is known for smelling of vanilla, so if you love nature consider scenting your apartment with vanilla, evergreen, and cinnamon. The main scent “categories” are: musk, smoky, citrus, woody, green, floral, aquatic, and incense (spicy and sweet). Consider your favorite scents of cologne/perfume, shampoo, lotion, or even your favorite coffee shop or hangout. Find ways to bring those scents home.

Remember, it’s the things that make your space personal, peaceful, and private that make it your own sanctuary. When it comes to making your home into a haven, do what feels right to you! With the tips above, and your own personal touches, you’ll be saying “om” to your home in no time!

The post Five Tips to Make Your Apartment a Sanctuary appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

Summer has officially come to Flagstaff, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors! … But it’s also the perfect time to chillax with a perfect summer binge watching session. Here are five great shows to binge watch while you beat the summer heat!

Bob’s Burgers
Head to Netflix for this burger-based animated family sitcom! Why do we love Bob’s Burgers? Three Words … Regular Sized Rudy. Besides the constant antics of the Belcher kids (which are sure to give you some wild ideas on how to spend your days during the summer), Bob’s Burgers is chop full of amazing characters. Tina Belcher is our spirit animal. Teddy the handyman is relentlessly optimistic. Jimmy Jr.’s dance moves are to die for. And again … Regular Sized Rudy. (Why do they call him that? In his own words: “Just look at me.”)

FRINGE
This Fox phenom ran from 2008 through 2013, but it still has a place in our hearts as a non-stop thrill ride. FBI agent Olivia Dunham enlists the aid of Dr. Walter Bishop, the maddest of all mad scientists, and his jack-of-all-trades son Peter to help investigate a mysterious “Pattern” that threatens the very fabric of the universe. Things get pretty wild within the first few episodes, and it just keeps escalating until the emotionally captivating final season that takes things to a whole new level.

Game of Thrones
If you haven’t been watching this series, it’s time to start. Watch as powerful families engage in the ultimate battle royale in their efforts to rule the Seven Kingdoms. Each season is an action packed emotional roller coaster. Don’t get too attached to your favorite character … as Queen Cersai says, “In the game of thrones, you win or your die” … and there are a LOT of losers. Summer may be here in Flagstaff, but in Westeros … Winter is coming.

LOST
If you think you’ve got it bad (hello, record-breaking summer temps), try enduring a constant summer stuck on a desert island! LOST follows survivors of a plane crash as they try to unravel the mystery of where (and, sometimes, when) they are and how to get home. The stories are captivating, and the mysteries behind the island (Smoke monsters. Secret hatches. Mystery numbers. The Others.) will keep you on the edge of your seat for all six seasons!

24
Available to binge for free with an Amazon Prime membership, 24 is a binge-viewer’s dream come true. Why? Because you can watch an entire season in less than a DAY! Each season is set during a 24-hour day in the life of CTU agent Jack Bauer, and with each episode running slightly less than an hour you can literally watch an entire season in a day. (And, unlike Jack, even take bathroom breaks.) With the series set to come back in a revamped 12-episode series, now is the time to see what all the hype was about with the original.

Happy viewing! Share your favorite shows with us on Facebook or Twitter! 

The post Five TV Shows to Binge Watch This Summer! appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

1. Tank You Very Much: Pair a tank with a pair of jeans, a jacket, under a semi-see-through shirt, etc. No closet is complete without at least one black, white, and gray tank!

2. You’re Beau-Tee-Ful: A simple t-shirt is probably the most versatile piece you can have in your wardrobe. Find your perfect neck—whether V-neck, scoop, or crew—and have a selection of a few solid or simply-designed (think stripes, polka dots, etc.) tees ready to go! We recommend at least one black, one white, and one blue t-shirt to get started.

3. Button Down the Hatches: Another versatile option, make sure you go with colors and patterns that blend well when layered or on their own. A button down shirt or blouse looks great with a suit, casual slacks, or paired with jeans!

4. Cardi, Yo: A nice solid cardigan (go for black, tan/cream, or white if you’re daring) pairs just as well as a button down shirt. It’s nice for layering for a winter day, autumn walk, spring outing, or summer night!

5. A Blaze(r) of Glory: A blazer instantly makes any outfit look put together. Again, go with simple colors (blue, black, tan) … but don’t forget the more fun colors to give your outfit some sizzle!

6. Be a Slack-er: Finding the perfect pair of dress or casual slacks isn’t always easy. You have to make sure you find the right length and fit to make sure your comfortable and stylish all day long. No wardrobe is complete without at least one black, one khaki/tan, and one blue pair of well-fitted slacks.

7. It’s All in the Jeans: For a night out of a slick smart casual look, you’ve got to have the perfect pair of jeans. Avoid too many colored jeans; stick with the tried and true blue. At least one good pair of boot-cut and one straight-legged pair should do you to start.

8. Sweater Weather: Aim for lightweight sweaters … These are perfect for layering over a shirt and under a coat in winter. They’re also great alternatives to jackets for a chilly summer night. Remember, find the neckline that works for you, and have a few options both plain and patterned that work with as many looks as possible!

9. If the Shoe Fits: You’ve got to wear ‘em, so make sure you wear ‘em well! Shoes can make or break your outfit. You’ll want at least one pair of sneakers, one pair of dress shoes, one pair of sandals, and probably one pair of boots. And don’t feel like you have to restrict yourself to solid designs … a nice patterned pair of dress shoes can add a little flash to an otherwise plain outfit!

10. Eye on the Prize? Accessorize!: With what you’ll save on clothes with a capsule wardrobe, you can usually afford to go all out on accessories. Fellas, snag a nice selection of solid and patterned ties. Ladies, look at a nice selection of necklaces and jewelry. Scarves are a great way to dress up an otherwise simple outfit, as are purses, glasses, watches, hats, pins, etc.

The post Ten Essentials for Your Capsule Wardrobe appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

March Madness is officially upon us, which means it’s bracket time! Whether you’re after bragging rights, a cash prize, or you just really love the game, everybody is in it to win it with their NCAA March Madness brackets. But what are the odds of getting the elusive perfect bracket? Kind of like the Hunger Games, the odds are not exactly in your favor. While we can’t promise you a perfect bracket, we can offer you some tips to help you take it to the net with your bracket picks this year!

Statistically Speaking …
Most fans are picking their bracket picks based on who they like. But not everybody’s favorite team can make it to the Sweet Sixteen, Elite Eight, or Final Four … and definitely not everybody’s favorite team will win. Rather than letting your heart get in the way, use your head to make the best picks. Don’t overthink things with the personal attachments you might have to certain teams. Instead, use seasonal stats to your advantage. It’s not rocket science … just do the math!

Time Is On Your Side
Pay close attention to how each team has done leading up to the tournament. Sure, maybe your favorite team had a phenomenal season, but if they’ve lost a number of games leading up to March Madness, chances are they may choke (sorry) during the big event. Take a look at each team’s recent record, leading up to the start of the March Madness tournament, and you’re way more likely to pick winners over teams that may have had great seasons but are burned out.

Map It Out
The NCAA Tournament is kind of the biggest away game of the season … so pay attention to how teams have done in away games during their regular seasons. If the majority of victories are at home, but their away game is only so-so, pay attention to the likelihood that the teams you’re choosing can maintain a great game based on where they’ll be playing. If a team is playing closer to home, that’s an advantage; if they’re further away, don’t be so quick to hitch your bracket to their basket!

Go Streaking
Ahem, no, not that kind of streaking. Take a close look at the winning (and losing) streaks of the teams you’re choosing between. Keep in mind, the March Madness tournament is really about who can maintain the winning streak it takes to get to the championship! If you favor a team but they have a hard time maintaining a solid winning streak, you might want to rethink your choice. Remember: March Madness is kind of like the Game of Thrones … you win, or you die. You’ve got to win a lot of battles to win the March Madness war, so pay close attention to the teams who win game after game.

Give It Your Best Jump Shot
Let’s face facts … there’s no way to know exactly what’s going to happen during the March Madness tournament. Miracles happen, as do upsets. It’s the nature of the game. So when you’re having a tough time making the perfect pick … guess. It may sound like a risky strategy, but let’s be honest: it’s just as risky to “play it safe” with your picks! Because in the end, you just can’t know for sure! So remember, your bracket is about having fun, and half the fun is taking risks, and half the risk is being willing to just guess who’s going to come out and top. And who knows? Maybe with your best guess, it’ll actually be you!

The post Tips to Help You Rock Your March Madness Bracket! appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

Chances are, when you first move into a new apartment, you see every surrounding door as a new stranger. Well we’re here to encourage you to look at those doors differently: as unique opportunities to meet new people. One thing that sets us apart is our sense of community, and we want to encourage you to embrace your part in it. We’re a puzzle, and you’re an essential piece! Not sure where to start? Here are five tips to help you meet your neighbors:

Check the Mail. You get your mail key on your first day here … which means you have an opportunity to start meeting people from Day One! When you check your mail, also check out who’s around you. It only takes a moment to catch the eye of the other person checking their mailbox and say hello. Introduce yourself!

Hit the Gym. One way to easily meet people with mutual interests? Head to the gym! Leave your iPod at home and be open to starting up a conversation with the other folks working out with you.

Walk the Dog. Head to the dog park and swap tips (or horror stories) with the other animal lovers there. Walking the dog isn’t just the way guys in 90’s movies pick up girls anymore … It’s a great way for anyone to spark up a conversation!

Count on CARES. Are you shy when it comes to meeting new people or starting conversations? Our awesome CARES Team is here to help with that. With free events every month, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet your neighbors. And the CARES Team is more than happy to chat with you and help get you started meeting new people and feeling more at home!

Take Chances. Walking to your car and pass a neighbor? Say hi. Taking the trash to the dumpster and pass a neighbor? Say hi. Doing the laundry? Say hi! If you feel comfortable with it, leave your door open while you’re home, and say hello to anyone who catches your eye through the door. Stop by the Welcome Center and talk to whoever else is waiting. Don’t be afraid to turn every day into an opportunity to meet someone new!

The post How to Meet People at Your Apartment! appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

February is a month full of heart … No, not because of Valentine’s Day! February is also National Heart Month, which makes it the perfect time to think about what you can do to be “heart happy.” After all, your heart is one thing you quite literally can’t live without. Everything from diet and exercise to your levels of stress and happiness contribute to how your heart performs. Keeping your heart healthy and happy, then, is about more than just getting in a good workout every once in a while (though it couldn’t hurt). It’s about making good lifestyle choices to do what’s right for your health! Here are a few suggestions to help you concentrate on heart health this month!

Kick Up the Cardio

Add a little exercise to your daily routine. Go for walks. Join a Zumba class. Take advantage of the free Fitness Center! Aim for 15 minutes of activity three times a week to start, and gradually increase your activity level as you feel more comfortable!

Kick Out Bad Habits

If you’re a smoker, now’s a good time to quit. Quitting can significantly reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke, among other things! Wave farewell to fatty foods. Reduce the amount of sodium in your diet. Use spices instead of salt to add flavor to your food. Say goodbye to bad habits and say hello to a happier heart!

What’s Up, Doc?

Don’t forget the importance of regular check-ups with your doctor … even when you’re not sick. Your doctor can help you set heart healthy goals. Doctors are also great resources for asking questions about your health in general; remember, there’s no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to your health! And make sure you’re willing to trust their advice … because they’re doctors, and you’re not.

Just Relax …

Raise your hand if you’ve NEVER had a stressful day at school, work, home, the store, church, the park … Yeah, we’ve all had stressful days. It’s impossible to avoid stress, but it is possible to learn to manage it. Take time daily just for yourself. Take a long bath or an extra long shower. Do some yoga. Take a nap. Meditate. Listen to relaxing music. Do whatever it takes to allow the stresses of your day to simply melt away … even if it just means putting your stressor on the back burner for now. Your heart will thank you!

Heart health is not magic. It is simply the process of making good choices. Celebrate National Heart Month by showing your heart a little extra TLC!

The post Have a Heart: Stay Heart Happy for National Heart Month appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

1.Welcome Home

Home is where the heart is … and our heart is here. With you. 
 

2. Get Comfy…

… and stay awhile! (We'd love to hang out for, say, the next 3-12 months?)
 

3. Pamper Yourself

'Nuff said.
 

4. This Seat's Not Taken

(In case you haven't picked up on it by now, we kind of like having you here!)
 

5. Dinner for Two? How Romantic.

Order take out, or cook a meal in. Either way, we've got you covered for a perfect Valentine's Day meal!
 

6. Coming Soon to a Heart Near You …

Our love is in the "stars" … Get it? 'Cause Hollywood? … Yeah, you get it. 
 

7. Never Change

We love you just the way you are … aka, living here, making Pine View awesome.
 

8. Love Languages

You're just like our love … undefinable. (Unless "amazing" counts. Then we'd define you as "amazing.")
 

9. A Hunk, A Hunk of Burnin' Love!

Even in the dead of winter, you warm our hearts. Even in the heat of summer, we think you're cool. You're four seasons worth of greatness! 
 

10. You Must Be Super Fit …

… 'Cause you've been running through our minds all day!
 

11. A Clean Sweep

Our love for you is like our Laundry Care Center Hours … 24/7!

Thanks for making Pine View Village your home, and spending Valentine's Day with us! You complete us. 

The post Happy Valentine’s Day! appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.

The Grammys are coming! The Grammys are coming! It’s the biggest night of the year for music, and you can be part of it from the comfort of your own home. Of all the annual award shows the Grammys are probably our favorite: it’s like an amazing concert from all the hottest artists in the industry! Not only that … the Grammys are also an excuse to throw an elaborate show. And we’re not just talking about on TV. What better reason to gather friends and family for awesome food and music than a Grammy party?

Here are some award-worthy tips for making your Grammy Award party “sing”:

Rock the Casbah

The Grammys are a big night for music … So how can you even imagine celebrating without a rockin’ playlist?! Power up your cellphone, laptop, or tablet and make a playlist of all the nominated tracks. Not sure who’s up for an award? You can find the full list of nominees here. Pick your favorite artists or categories and download the nominated tracks. (And we’re talking legally here, folks … remember, piracy is NOT cool, no matter what Jack Sparrow may say.) Pre-party with your favorite songs, and you’ll dance even harder when they take home the gold!

Dress to Impress

Come on, guys … This is the Grammys we’re talking about! Don’t leave the dressing up to the nominees. Break out your fancy dress and celebrate in style! Make your Grammy Awards party a dress-coded affair with everyone arriving in outfits worthy of the red carpet. Or, have your guests come in character. Invite your guests to dress as their favorite Grammy-nominated star. Bonus: Have special party favors for guests dressed like the actual winners! When their performer wins, have the guest dressed liked the winner give their own little award speech during the commercial break, and make sure everybody gives them a solid round of applause.

Deck the Halls

Turn your living room into the red carpet, or a pre-show dance club. It’s all about the glitz and glamor, so go all out. Head to the Dollar Store, Party City, or Michael’s for all the decorations you’ll need. Black and gold are the traditional colors of the Grammys, but don’t feel the need to limit yourself to those colors. Take cues from the nominees’ albums and music videos. Have goody bags for all your guests, and special snacks and appetizers fit for the occasion!

Pass the Mic

Encourage the celebration of music with plenty of song and dance. We’re talking about making sure there’s plenty of room to dance around … and a karaoke machine. Find the karaoke version of nominated songs on YouTube and share in a little friendly competition with your friends by performing your best live versions of the songs!

Fun and Games

No party is complete without plenty of fun and games. Beside karaoke, have print outs of the nominees and challenge your friends to pick the winners before the awards start. Have a prize for the winner. Remember the costumes you’re all wearing? Have a prize for best dressed, or the person who best emulates their musical icon. Create a custom party hashtag and have your friends share their photos from the party to Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter all night to share all the fun you’re having! (Hint: Follow and tag us on Instagram as you post! We’d love to see your photos, too!)

Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to have a blast before, during, and long after the awards! Tune in to the Grammy Awards on Monday, February 15^th, at 8ET/5PT on CBS!

The post Go for the Gold: Throw an Awesome Grammy Party! appeared first on Pine View Village Apartments Blog.