Wedding Planner Magazine 05062014

Transcription

A publication inspired by the
Association of Bridal Consultants
May/June 2014 Volume 4 Issue 2
the publication for wedding planners, professionals, and designers
Tented Weddings—Behind the Scenes 8
Jewish Wedding Traditions 15
Marketing to Same-Sex Couples 18
Adding Rentals to Your Bottom Line 23
Wedding Insurance Basics 24
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Table of Contents
8
Features
A Peek Behind the Scenes at Three Fabulous
Tented Weddings…………………………………………………… 8
Anyone in the wedding industry knows that
tented events, while a blank canvas for creativity that can lead to stunning presentation, are
risky endeavors due to the multitude of details
required and, let’s not forget, Mother Nature.
In this feature, take a peek under the big top
at what it took to put together three incredible tented events. Plus get inspiring tips from
industry leader Dominic Mitchell of Raj Tents.
Taking Wedding Entertainment to a Whole
New Level………………………………………………………………… 14
No matter how enjoyable the company, how
fabulous the food, wedding entertainment can
make or break an event. Find out how you can
provide the savvy and know-how to ensure
that your clients aren’t the only ones on the
dance floor.
Is Your Business Gay Friendly? The Basics of
Marketing to Same-Sex Couples……………………… 18
The same-sex marriage market is booming
and, as such, planners and vendors interested in tapping into the market need to review
and update their promotional materials and
client processes because everything is not
same-old, same-old. This article is full of
helpful resources and tips on marketing to
same-sex couples, as well as information
on how you can win a copy of The New Art
of Capturing Love: The Essential Guide to
Lesbian and Gay Wedding Photography.
Wedding Planner Magazine’s 2014 Reader
Survey—The Results Are In!… ………………………… 20
What do Wedding Planner Magazine’s like and
dislike about the publication? What do they
want more of and what do they want to see
changed? Read on to find out the results!
Knowing Trends and Your Clients is Key to
Linen Selection………………………………………………………27
What are the latest patterns and trends
impacting the linen industry? From colors and
patterns to textures and metallics, the linen
industry uncovers what you need to know.
Departments
International: Deep Roots Give Rise to Rich
Traditions in Jewish Weddings…………………………… 15
Just as with any other rich, cultural event, the
Jewish wedding has its own traditions and
language that, unless it’s what you always do,
make planning such an event not-just-anotherday-at-the-office. Find out what it takes to
plan Jewish weddings and why the experience
is unforgettable.
Industry Best Practices…………………………………………26
How do you establish boundaries with your
brides?
27
Columns
Master Bridal Consultant™: Jessica A.
Robinson, MBC™, CSS… ………………………………………… 21
Ask the Experts………………………………………………………22
Wedding Planner Magazine readers pose their
pressing industry-related questions, and members of our advisory group have the answers.
ABC Member Insight: Allison Kline, ABC™,
sash&bow…………………………………………………………………23
Make your income soar by adding rentals to
your bottom line.
Business Basics: Wedding Insurance Helps
Make Things Right When Something Goes
Wrong…………………………………………………………………………24
Catering: Midwest Foodservice Expo a Source
for Event Ideas… ……………………………………………………25
One of Wisconsin’s premier event planners,
David Caruso, shares his top food finds and
trends to dress up your events.
In Every Issue
Contributors…………………………………………………………… 6
ABC President/Editor/Publisher Letter………… 7
ABC Meetings & News………………………………………… 16
Real Wedding—North Carolina…………………………29
A Jewish-Christian wedding blends the best
of both cultures with a healthy dose of
Southern charm.
Wedding Planner Magazine
5
CONTRIBUTORS
Jeremy Brech, a.k.a. “DJ Jer,” a Wedding Entertainment
Director® and owner of DJ Jer Events and Lighting Design
in Sioux Falls, S.D., started his business at age 15 and has
created thousands of unforgettable events in his 17 years
of business. Brech is one of 24 WED Guild® members
worldwide and specializes in production-based
entertainment and lighting design for events. Photo by
A.C. Ellis Photography.
Promote your product or company
to the wedding industry
ABC Corporate Members: Dena Davey 1.860.355.7000
ABC Corporate Members and United States: Bruce Todd 1.608.780.9836
California: Colleen Ashton 1.808-631.1183
Regarded as Wisconsin’s premier event planner and
designer, award-winning David Caruso, of Dynamic
Events by David Caruso, Milwaukee, is president of the
Southern Wisconsin Chapter of National Association for
Catering and Events (NACE), a national speaker, author
of Stylish Milwaukee Weddings, one of the producers
of Milwaukee’s Magnificent Bride Wedding Show, and
advisor for The Bridal Show at Overture in Madison, Wis.
A publication inspired by
the
1 Issue 2
May/June 2011 Volume
by the
A publication inspired
nts
Bridal Consulta the publication for wedding planners,
Association of Volume 1 Issue 4
professionals, and designers
ber 2011
September/Octo
the publication
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding marketing and
wedding PR firm OFD Consulting. She is a frequent
contributor to industry magazines and blogs, a highly
sought-after speaker, and a proud member of the
Association of Bridal Consultants.
Premier Issue
the publication for wedding
planners, professionals, &
running its San Francisco Bay Area office and looking
after design and manufacture of Raj Tents’ exclusive
range of luxury tenting for very special events. He is also
a contributor and speaker on tenting trends, developing
a niche business and destination weddings.
Fabulous Tented Wedding
s…Economic Outlook…
Savvy Ceremony Insight
…Irish Wedding Traditions
…Favorite Apps and more…
Celebrity wedding planner Marie Danielle Vil-Young,
PBC™, fluent in French and English, has been featured
on the TLC cable network, published in the Wall Street
Journal, and her company, À Votre Service Events®, can
be found globally in the Ritz-Carlton in-house magazine,
Weddings by the Ritz-Carlton. Classically trained as a
scientist, Vil-Young found her true calling in designing and
coordinating luxurious weddings and events. She is also
the Association of Bridal Consultants New Jersey
state manager.
6
Wedding
wedding prorector
2012
July/August
3
Volume 2 Issue
the publication for
wedding planners,
Color Trends…
Business of Brides 2010…
Italy FAMinar Highlights
the
January/February 2012
Volume 1 Issue 6
professionals, and
designers
Top 10 CaTerin
g Trends 8
soCial Media sTraTeg
y 12
8 sTeps To a greaT
ConTraCT 21
new! ask The experTs
23 ers
, and design
professionals
sayrs,
“yes”
planne
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To
proposa
weddin
l planning 24
SYE’s
tion forl Wedding
Inaugura
the publica
at Trump
planners, professionals, and
designers
Soho…Business Ethics…
…Giving Back & more
Day-of
!8
on: anywhere
Destinati
h? 12
you wort
what are
tant 13
your assis
assisting
ings 14
Mayan weDD
s 19
Basic
Business plan
20
ice planning
vs. full-serv
by the
Consultants
Association of Bridal 2 Issue 1
Volume
March/April 2012
y
AnniIsvesrsuare
the publication for
wedding planners,
1st
the publication for
wedding
designers
professionals, and
Building a Brand
Green Weddings
Business of Brides Review
Creative Ceremony Details
What It Means to Be a MBC™
by the
Consultants
Association of Bridal 2 Issue 5
Volume
/December 2012
November
the
Volume 3 Issue 4
September/October 2013
als, and designers
planners, profession
8
TTers of The Year!
2012 WPM Trendse
shooTs 13
5 TiPs for sTYlized
ion secreTs 18
real Wedding subMiss
Planning 21
2013 financial
are You readY?
designers
g 24
eloPeMenT Plannin
the
November/December
2013 Volume 3 Issue 5
designers
34
Emerging Color Trends
55
WPM Advisory Board
19
Nigerian Weddings
the Cloud 23
Doing Business in
g9
Lightin
Dramatic Event
the
Association of Bridal Consultants6
Volume 3 Issue
January/February 2014
Keisha Scott, PBC™, is the owner of K. Scott Wed-
dings, specializing in multicultural and fusion weddings
in North Carolina. She has a background in interior
design as well as travel and tourism. She has been
planning weddings for six years and is a member of the
Association of Bridal Consultants.
ry
ta Mass Milita
t Puerta Vallar
s Alan Berg’s Insigh ation Contract Tips
Flower Show Inspir
by the
Association
September/October of Bridal Consultants
2012 Volume 2 Issue
4
agency, viva bella events. Her company produces both engaging environments and creative content for corporations
around the world. Her love for celebrations and style make
her a natural for planning and designing weddings, which is
one of her favorite parts of what she does.
Dominic Mitchell is co-founder and CEO of Raj Tents,
designers
Catering Trend
7 tips for
Dora Manuel is the owner of the Cincinnati-based event
and designers
the
March / April 2011 Volume
1 Issue 1
Alison Friedman owns and operates The Wedding
Yentas (www.TheWeddingYentas.com). She began planning her wedding at age 5 with the help of her Barbie
and Ken dolls. After her actual wedding in 2008, Alison
realized her love for weddings wasn’t over. She lives in
the suburbs of Los Angeles with her husband and their
pooch, Princeton. Baby Yenta, Madelyn, was born in 2011;
and she’s already been a flower girl—twice.
s, professionals,
for wedding planner
designers
2014 Catering Trends 8
Going Out at the Top of
Your Game 13
Simon T. Bailey 19
Create a Culture of Success
22
Burning the Candle at Both
Ends 24
Top Wedding Design Trends
of 2014 8 Marketing to
Attract New Business 11
Novice Pitfalls & How to
Avoid Them 22 The Right
Way to Merge Businesses
25
7 Ways to Increase Your Pinterest
Influence 26
islands 15
international: the Greek
Business of Brides 8
success 24
18 5 tips for Bridal show
state of the industry
future? 25
farm-to-taBle: fad or
September/October CATERING issue deadline is July 7, 2014
November/December TREND issue deadline is September 7, 2014
Editor Beth Erickson
Creative Director Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
Art Designer Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
Writers Jeremy Brech
David Caruso
Meghan Ely
Beth Erickson
Alison Friedman
Allison Kline, ABC™
Dora Manuel
Dominic Mitchell
Meagan Phillips
Keisha Scott, PBC™
Marie Danielle Vil-Young, PBC™
Proofreader Kim Seidel
PhotographersA.C Ellis Photography
Apropos Photography
Averyhouse
Chad Phillips Photography
Cook and Co Photography
Don Mears Photography
Emin Wedding Photojournalist
Front Room Photography
Imagine Photography
L. Photographie
MiBelle Photography
Morningstar Photography
Open Aperture Photography
Sarah Schultz Photography
Seldana Photography
ABC Corporate SalesDena Davey
California Sales Colleen Ashton
ABC Corporate, and US Bruce Todd
Who doesn’t love to go behind the scenes, to get a sneak peak at what is usually hidden? What goes on
behind the curtain, or in the case of tented events, behind the flap, involves hundreds of little details that,
when done right, are invisible and seamless to guests—even in the event of near disaster.
To satisfy the voyeur in all of us, Wedding Planner Magazine brings you a backstage pass to three of last
year’s incredible tented weddings (page 8). These events were chosen from among many submissions
received from our readers. Not only will you see lovely pictures of each event, you’ll read about budget,
guest count, labor, logistics, rental needs, special challenges each faced, and more. Plus, Dominic Mitchell
from San Francisco’s Raj Tents gives you 10 ideas for making a tented event extraordinary.
On page 18 of this issue is the second article in our three-part series on same-sex marriages. In it, you’ll
hear tips from industry insiders on how to market services to same-sex couples. Marketing information
from Wedding Planner Magazine’s same-sex survey and a list of helpful resources are also included.
And find out how to submit your name for a chance to win a copy of The New Art of Capturing Love:
The Essential Guide to Lesbian and Gay Wedding Photography by Kathryn Hamm, president of www.
GayWeddings.com, and photographer Thea Dodds of Authentic Eye Photography. For more industry
ideas, explore every page of this issue, which is so full of information useful to you, your clients, and your
business, that it can’t be contained in a letter.
Finally, we want to thank you for participating in our first Reader’s Survey in early March. The majority of
reader feedback and comments were positive, for which we are grateful. Is there room for improvement?
Always. As we look forward to our fifth year of publication next year, we want to celebrate by making
changes that lead to an even stronger, more vital, and indispensible tool for you and your business. Keep
sending us your ideas at [email protected].
© apropos photography
Publishers Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
David Wood
Letter
l e tt e r
Volume 4 Issue 2
May/June 2014
Wedding Planner Magazine, inspired by the Association of
Bridal Consultants, is published bi-monthly by Wedding
Planner Magazine LLC, 400 Main Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin
54601.
Phone: 608.796.2257. Fax: 608.796.2253.
Email: [email protected].
Visit: www.WeddingPlannerMag.com.
Copyright 2014 Wedding Planner Magazine LLC. All rights
reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced
without written permission from the publishers.
Wedding Planner Magazine does not necessarily endorse the
claims or contents of advertising or editorial material. Printed
in the U.S.A.
Photo courtesy of Raj Tents
ISSN 2160-3286 is published
bi-monthly by Wedding Planner Magazine LLC, 400 Main
Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin
54601. Circulation is 4,000.
Advertising is accepted;
corporate ABC members
receive a discount on rates.
Annual subscriptions are
$36. Periodical postage paid
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Magazine, 400 Main Street,
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Beth Erickson
Editor
[email protected]
Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
David M. Wood,
Publisher/Creative Director
Publisher/President,
[email protected] Association of Bridal Consultants
upcoming Issue: Becoming a Destination Wedding
Planner - Same-Sex Weddings III - Protecting Yourself and
Your Business- Signature Summer Sips - and much more!
Wedding Planner Magazine Advisory Board
International Barbara Diez, MBC™, Barbara Diez Event Planners Master Bridal Consultant™ Mark Kingsdorf, MBC™,
The Queen of Hearts Wedding Consultants Master Bridal Consultant™ Frank J. Andonoplas, MBC™, Frank Event Design
Master Bridal Consultant™ Tamara Lin Waterman, MBC™, 2011 Miss Dorothy Heart Award Recipient, Special Moments
Master Wedding Vendor™ Edward L. Griffin, MWV™, The Wedding DJs/Hardcastle Entertainment, Inc.. Vendor John
Goolsby, MEI, CPV, MPV, Godfather Films, and Novice Shelly Stone, Signature Events by Shelly Professional Bridal
Consultant™.
7
tented weddings
A Peek Behind the Scenes at
Three Fabulous Tented Weddings
By Beth Erickson, Wedding Planner Magazine Editor, La Crosse, Wis.; Jeremy Brech, DJ Jer Events and Lighting Design,
Sioux Falls, S.D.; Dora Manuel, Viva Bella Events, Cincinnati, Ohio; Marie Danielle Vil-Young, PBC™, À Votre Service Events, LLC,
Franklin Park, N.J.
What does it really take to put on a tented wedding from start to finish?
How many hours are involved? Who plays a part? What happens if
something goes wrong? Wedding Planner Magazine brings you exclusive,
behind-the-scenes glimpses into three incredible tented weddings that
were chosen from among many reader submissions. The wedding planners who submitted the weddings shared installation, labor, vendor,
man-hours, and many other details along with lovely photos—it’s
tented wedding reality in print.
Date: May 25, 2013
Guest count: 162
Inspiration: Rustic elegance with touches of tradition from the couple’s
the future, the company will try to source LED candles with remote
controls.
Logistics: A few days before the wedding, the sidewalls to the main reception tent were removed to give the tent a more open, airy feel with beautiful fabric on the tent legs. However, due to the windy, rainy conditions,
the sidewalls were re-installed and heating units, which were on reserve,
were requested. Tented weddings can be tricky. For this reason, À Votre
Service Events typically recommends clients not only reserve the main
reception tent but a back-up tent for ceremony and cocktail in case of
inclement weather. In this case, this recommendation was a key factor to
the success. Since a deposit had already been made to reserve the backup
tent, they put Plan B into effect and had the tent installed the day before
the wedding for the ceremony, which included the mandap stage. While
the idea and staging is traditional, a wrought iron structure and frame
better suited to the rustic nature of the farm was chosen, sourcing sari
material to cover the structure gave authenticity and interest. A beaded
runner was added for a touch of elegance and as a nod to the couple’s
heritage. Later, guests were invited to the reception tent, which was in a
different area of the farm. The couple wanted food served family-style. To
preserve space on the tables, courses were served in copper bowls. While
this was a practical solution to preserve table space, from a design stand
point, the copper bowls worked well with the rustic elegance theme.
South Asian heritage.
Budget: $140,000
Location: A private farm
Vendors: Iris Cinematics (videography), BBJ Linen, Eggsotic Events
(lighting), A1 Limo, Silver Arrow Band (reception music), Sandeep
Aurora Events (barjatri, ceremony, cocktail musicians), We Love Photobooths, Party Rental Ltd., United Rentall, Miller’s Rentals (tent), New
Kaya Salon Anita (mehndi), Hopewell Buyrite (liquor), Cinderella Bridez
(hair/makeup).
Tent: 40' x 80' gable frame tent with clear top; 30' x 60' backup, ceremony gable frame tent.
Labor: Gable tent installation, 40' x 80': three hours; gable tent installation, 30' x 60': three hours; floral: 1.5 hours as the flowers were predesigned; mandap set up: two hours to complete from set up—draping,
and flowers added; lighting: four hours; general décor: approximately
four hours to install drapery on the tent legs, drapery of mandap, table
settings, etc.
Rentals: Farm wooden tables, chiavari chairs, linen, band stage, heating
units, wrought-iron mandap, copper bowls, china, glassware, flatware,
chargers, and photobooth. Power from the main building on the
property was available. Bathrooms were in the main building. There was
a separate cook tent with all stoves and a fryer for dinner service.
Challenges: The weather was extremely windy, raining on and off and
much cooler than anticipated for the time of year. Set up happened the
day before the wedding. The caution was that when the votives with
LED candles inside were installed, the LEDs needed to be left on because
there wouldn't be time for staff to go back and turn on each LED (there
were more than 500 on the tent ceiling). Prior to the event, Marie
Danielle Vil-Young, PBC™, of À Votre Service Events, tested a few LEDs
to learn exactly how much time was needed from the time of set up
before the LED batteries ran out. (She carried a few, lit, in her purse for
about 35-40 hours before the battery expired. With this information,
she planned how far in advance was a realistic time for this set up. In
8
Above all, lighting was a key element. The couple saw a picture of a clear
tent designed for a wedding the previous year and wanted the same.
However, À Votre Service Events redesigned it to better suit the rustic
environment. In so doing, they designed and created the illusion of stars
overhead with a mix of clear glass votives, antique glass mercury votives
(large and small), Moroccan glass lanterns, spheres to give to illusions
of a planetarium, and so on. The team worked closely with Eggsotic
Events to install, and deliver this vision—including washing the tent
ceiling, dance floor, and band stage with amber lights. Uplighting on
the perimeter of the tent enhanced the look.
tented weddings
“The fact that this couple had an amazing experience is
something that brings us pride and joy. The pictures of this tent
are beautiful. However, in person, it was a surreal experience to
see the twinkle of hundreds of little LED lights overhead
come alive in that clear tent as night fell.”
- Marie Danielle Vil-Young, PBC™, À Votre Service Events, LLC
Marie Danielle Vil-Young, PBC™, À Votre Service Events, LLC, Franklin Park, N.J. photos by Emin Wedding Photojournalist
Wedding Day Timeline
2:00 p.m. Barjatri
3:00 p.m.
Ceremony
4:30 p.m.
Bride to change wedding attire
4:30 p.m.
Cocktail hour
5:30 p.m.
Bride and groom join cocktail hour
6:00 p.m.
Bride and groom photos
6:30 p.m.Dinner/reception
9
tented weddings
Dora Manuel, viva bella events, Cincinnati photos by Michael Bambino & Co.
10
tented weddings
Date: Sept. 21, 2013
Guest count: 265
Inspiration: Eric and Michelle wanted their fall wedding to be unforget-
table, so the ceremony was followed by a tented reception embellished
with glam elements.
Budget: $150,000
Location: Greenacres Art Center
Vendors: Cakes and Pastries by George, Jeff Thomas Catering, Fireside
Pizza Wagon, Dulce Designs (candy bar), Carl Larson (ceremony music),
Endless Summer Band, Robin Wood (floral design), Ford Ellington (floral),
Poeme (stationery), All Occasions (lighting), La Tavola (linens), Connie
Duglan Linens, Michael Bambino & Co. (photobooth), Camargo Rental,
All Occasions (rentals), Scott Russell and Third Impression Productions
(videography), Ivy Pitzer (wedding stylist).
Tent: 82' x 100' structure tent with full draping. The tent is owned by
Greenacres Art Center and is permanently in place from spring through fall.
Labor: Tent draping and lighting: 16 hours; subfloor/carpeting and dance
floor: two hours; dropping tables and bar for reception: six hours; building
ceremony platform and dropping chairs: six hours; removing tent sides:
eight hours; placing chairs, dressing them, and placing table linens: 36
hours; small setup—escort cards, table numbers, aisle runners, etc.: 35
hours; floral: 48 hours to install and all week to assemble with six people on
site for set up; catering: 20-25 service staff who started three hours prior;
band: two hours setup; viva bella events: eight people for set up all day.
Rentals: 301 white folding garden chairs for ceremony plus 16 for cocktail
hour, 36" round table for ceremony for drinks, 12 cocktail tables for
cocktail hour, (2) 8' x 30" banquet tables for escort cards and heritage
table, 4 bar kits with (2) 12' cocktail bars, (3) 8' x 30" and (4) 8' x 48"
banquet tables, 268 gold chiavari chairs, 22 6' rounds, mirage chairs for
the hora, 10 cocktail tables in the tent, 8 fruitwood café stools with ivory
chair pads for cocktail tables, 18 gold café stools with ivory chair pads
for long bar tables, (12) 6' long bar tables, 28 pinspots, dance floor color
wash in purple scroll pattern, ceiling wash for top of tent in gold crushed
dichroic with soft focus, up lights along wall of house in soft lavender,
20'x 20' high-peak catering tent, tent walls, (12) 6' x 30' banquet tables
for catering tent, lighting for catering tent, heater propane, 16' x 28' x
15" stage for band, stairs for stage, 8' x 14' black riser skirting, 4 sofas,
2 coffee tables, (1) 5' round center ottoman in white leather with raised
back, (15) chandeliers 24" x 60", 260 gothic gold salad plates, 260 glass/
matte gold dinner plates, 260 of each piece of Vanessa flatware and each
glassware, linens, and 28' x 32' white dance floor.
Challenges: The biggest challenge was in the design. The bride wanted to use
different colored neutrals in the ceiling draping, but did not want an identifiable pattern, so four colors of very close shades were chosen and arranged
to seem effortlessly put together. It was rental company's first time to drape
this type and size of tent in this way and the first time the chandeliers were
used in such a large tent by both viva bella events and All Occasions Rentals.
An additional challenge was the number of decision makers involved—both
the bride and the groom and both mothers—and they had differing design
preferences and were strongly opinionated. However, all parties were more
than pleased with the result.
Logistics: The tent features iron support beams that run across the tent’s
ceiling. To create an elegant, refined background for the reception,
viva bella events covered the beams with full-cover draping panels. The
panels were set up on Wednesday. This helped with logistics for the
deliveries that were scheduled on Friday and Saturday. Each vendor
arrived at the correct time, creating a domino effect of helping hands.
Having the rentals like the dance floor, tables, bars, chairs, and lighting
in place before the linens, floral centerpieces, candles, flatware, and
glassware all added to the overall vision of the wedding. The viva bella
events team being on staff from the time the bride arrived to when
the last linen was taken off the tables and placed into the return bags,
allowed for the overall logistics to flow smoothly from start to finish.
“[This couple’s] wedding of ‘Radiant Orchid
perfection’ was produced with creativity,
innovation, and flawless style…The viva bella
events team worked with numerous vendors
to deliver a romantic evening in the bright,
bold color scheme and full of dramatic
towering floral arrangements, a glamorous
round bar, fabulous chandeliers, and draping.
The couple and their guests experienced a
journey from intimate romance, to
glamorous, bold sophistication!”
- Dora Manuel, viva bella events
12:30 p.m. First look
5:30 p.m.
Ceremony
6:00 p.m. Cocktail hour begins
7:15 p.m.Introductions
7:25 p.m.
Cake cutting, followed by first dance
7:40 p.m.
Salads served
8:05 p.m.Entrées served
8:15 p.m.
Toasts
8:35 p.m. Father/daughter and mother/son dance
8:40 p.m.
Open dancing
8:45 p.m.
Candy bar opens
9:20 p.m. Hora
10:00 p.m.After party
11:55 p.m.Last dance and send off
11
tented weddings
“In any event, big or small, the client is always the winner
when vendors work together with one common goal in
mind, bringing a dream to reality and making a mark in their
memories that will last forever.”
- Jeremy Brech, DJ Jer Events and Lighting Design
Jeremy Brech, DJ Jer Events and Lighting Design, Sioux Falls, S.D.
photos by Chad Phillips Photography
1:30 p.m.
Ceremony
6:00 p.m.
Cocktail hour by pool
7:25 p.m. Guests move to reception
7:45 p.m.Introductions
7:55 p.m.
Cake-cutting
8:00 p.m.
Toasts
8:20 p.m.Dinner
9:05 p.m.
Video montage
9:10 p.m.Love story
9:15 p.m.
Special dances
10:25 p.m. Fireworks
10:40 p.m.After party
12:00 a.m. Farewell
12
tented weddings
Photography: Chad Phillips Photography
Date: Sept. 21, 2013
Guest count: 300
Inspiration: Fall glamour
Budget: $140,000
Location/catering: Westward Ho Country Club
Vendors: Ideal Wedding and Events (tent and hardware), Envision
Wedding Studios (detail/décor), Josephine’s Unique Floral Designery,
Soukup Videography, Merry Weddings by Peter Merry & Liz Daley
(entertainment).
Tent: O’Henry tent with window wall, 60' x 90' 8' side height, 26' peak;
20' x 20' Century tent, three 10' x 10' Century tents.
Labor: Ideal Wedding and Events: 428 hours; DJ Jer Events and Lighting
Design: 203 hours; Envision Wedding Studio: 18 hours; Josephine’s
Unique Floral Designery: 19 hours.
Rentals: 32' of stage, 300 black chaivari chairs, tables, linens, gold beaded
charger plates with Regina china, 24' x 24' oak dance floor, lounge
furniture, two 50 kW generators, power distribution, wind banners, hot
food cabinets, serving trays and stands, refrigerated trailer, and draping.
Challenges: 30-40 mph gusts of wind and rain.
Logistics: From the word “go,” there was an unyielding tone set by the
timeline in which each vendor had specific parts to play. The flooring
was a semi load of lumber, 750 2' x 6' planks, 325 sheets of plywood, and
10 large rolls of carpet. First, the crew constructed almost 6,000 square
feet of floor in the eight-to-10-hour timeframe and placed all electrical
underneath to accommodate the significant power needs of each pole.
The next day came with 30-40 mph gusts of wind and rain. After a quick
safety meeting, they set the O'Henry tent along with the 10' x 10' tents
to accommodate the photo booth and bars. The goal was to turn over the
tents to the lighting crew for perimeter lighting and pin spotting. Next,
the crew assembled the stage and marked out table placement according
to the CAD drawing to accommodate more than 30 pin spots that would
be placed at 24-feet on the mast poles. At this point, all that was left was
the lounge and the catering tent. The family only set three rules for catering, lighting, and tents: Hot food must be served hot, cold food must be
served cold, and the “wow” factor must be present with design.
Other tasks included pin spotting all centerpieces with a warm, white
LED from the peaks of the tent and running power throughout the tent
and around the perimeter. Setting the lighting created late hours into
the night, but it made the tent dramatic. The crew added a warm, rustic
color to the fall-themed wedding by using white computerized, batterypowered up-lights and diffusion filters to spread the light accordingly.
Textures were added to the inside of the tent to create some interest and
bundled tree branches attached to the anchor stakes were lit up with
battery-powered up-lights. The couple’s monogram was placed over the
entrance of the tent and the tent was washed in red lighting. The beautiful floral arrangements leading into the tent entrance were pin spotted
with a warm white to create an elegant approach, and all large trees
surrounding the tent were lit up by Chauvet outdoor fixtures. A separate
picnic area, away from the tent, was given a sunset-orange lighting to
create a calming lounge. The bridge crossing the river to get from the
parking lot to the tent was decorated with strands of globe lights for
safety and elegance. This was accented with two large, feather banners
lit in orange on each side. As guests walked back to their vehicles at the
evening’s end, there was a special message lit on the ground that said,
"Thank you for celebrating with us on our wedding day!" ••
Make Your Tented Events Shine
Contributed by Dominic Mitchell, Raj Tents, San Francisco
Luxury tenting has come a long way. Rather than rolling out the familiar, be open
to doing something new and exciting. Clients are better traveled, more adventurous, and can both value and handle “thinking outside the box” more than ever
before. Don’t think of tenting as an inevitable weak point, but as an opportunity
to enhance and intensify the décor. Utility without aesthetic benefit is a missed
opportunity.
1. Accentuate the tent’s character: The right tent will not get in the way of a gorgeous location. Framing views and adding something meaningful on a human scale creates an emotional environment.
2. Create a strong theme: This informs many other decisions. When tenting is an afterthought, it can be hard to fit it into a cohesive theme. Themed luxury tenting can give you a solid foundation; so if you want or need a tent, think about it early in the process.
3. Consider vibrant colors: A thrilling color palette will give the wedding loads of character, better photos, and will be more fun.
4. Consider smaller tents: Weather permitting, use a number of smaller tents rather than one big tent. This provides an intimate and more personal environment. Tents are structures that are seen from the outside as well as the inside, especially in a gorgeous location. The right tents have architectural beauty inside and out.
5. Add detail: An environment that facilitates emotional receptivity and
connectedness needs detail to create atmosphere. Tents should have details, too! Not everyone will notice detail, but the bar is set for those who will.
6. Make the time: Allow enough time for tented installation. Paying for an
extra day for set up can reap big dividends in the finished look and save you
an ulcer or two.
7. Don’t forget inside and out: For frame tents, consider arch walls or drapery to soften the boxy shape. Ornate scalloping and finials on the outside can transform the exterior view, too.
8. Think about destination tenting: At exotic beachfront locations, tenting is especially prominent. Make sure it fits with the feel that you and your client are going for. Remember, vinyl isn’t all that romantic.
9. Don’t skimp on lighting: It brings everything to life. Make sure your lighting company and tent company personnel are properly introduced and have time to put together a plan. The more your vendors collaborate, the better the end result and the better your service to the client.
10. Go for luxury: Think ballroom transformations. Tenting adds elevation, color, and theme to make the space more interesting and addresses the perennial challenge of personalizing a wedding in an institutional space.
13
f e at u r e
Taking Wedding
Entertainment
to a Whole
New Level
By Meghan Ely, OFD Consulting, Richmond, Va.
photo by don mears photography
wedding entertainers, sees more couples adding “personal tidbits during the
Grand Entrance to add more excitement and fun.” There is also a resurgence of
unique musical acts such as bagpipes or blue grass bands.
Mitch Taylor of Taylored Weddings in Gladstone, Mich., finds brides
are more technology driven and “showcasing footage of their proposal
or special wedding party video introductions.” Technology can enhance
sentimentality as well, as in the case of Taylor’s couple that videotaped
a grandmother giving the blessing just before she passed away, because
the groom couldn’t fathom getting married without her.
Glenn Mackay of G&M DJ’s in Australia says that “couples are utilizing more than just music for their entertainment, as many choose to
enhance the night with light and special effects. Various lighting options
can also be used to enhance certain aspects of a wedding celebration,
such as highlighting a particular space or feature in the room.” Many
entertainers have noticed that more clients are choosing to combine the
talents of a great DJ with live musicians to liven up later parts of the
party. You might even “see a drummer, guitarist or saxophonist playing
in sync with the DJ to spice things up a bit,” says Mackay.
Know what not to do
Almost as important as what is “in,” of course, is what’s "out." “Stuffy”
events with dated formalities take a backseat to personalized celebrations focused on fun and sentiment. “My couples want the traditions and
ceremonies at their celebration to have purpose and meaning,” says Mike
Anderson of Mike Anderson Weddings in Minneapolis. “The garter toss,
bouquet toss, and dollar dance are all regularly shunned.”
A mind-blowing truth in wedding planning is that entertainment is often undervalued and misunderstood. Anyone who has ever
watched guests dance the night away on a packed dance floor and
had to convince partiers that the event must end knows the power of
amazing entertainment. Yet, couples spend too little time considering
their options and wait far too long before securing contracts with
preferred providers. They fail to properly prioritize entertainment
among their many wedding needs, and are unfamiliar with the range
of services available today.
Follow best practices in selecting entertainment
A great entertainer is a hot commodity, and couples should make a
priority of locating and contracting with theirs early in the planning
process. They should also carefully consider how their budget reflects
their priorities. “If having a fun and memorable wedding reception is a
priority to you, then you should seriously consider setting aside at least
10 to 20 percent of your overall budget for entertainment,” says Daley.
Merry reminds planners to screen prospective entertainers thoroughly. “Do not hire anyone to serve as Master of Ceremonies without
first demanding to see uncut video footage of the way they perform
their duties on the microphone at a wedding. This prevents couples
from getting stuck with someone who uses a ‘cheesy’ DJ voice to
make generic, impersonal announcements at the wedding reception.
Remember, you want somebody with talent, so don’t be afraid to ask
him or her to audition.”
Even savvy professional planners may not realize all that is now possible,
inadvertently missing out on some of the best possible opportunities to
engage the crowd. Planners must work harder than ever to match their
clients with the vendors they deserve and stay abreast of the latest in wedding entertainment trends. It’s time to think beyond the standard “Grand Be the number one resource
You can be your clients’ very best source of top-notch entertainEntrance” and traditional first dances, and take your couples’ wedding
ment. “The easiest way is by developing relationships with the best
entertainment to a whole new level!
wedding entertainers in your region,” says Merry. Daley agrees,
adding, “Don’t be afraid of researching ‘outside’ your market to keep
Keep an eye out for what’s new
Offering clients top-of-the-line advice starts with knowing what is hot in wed- on top of what is new and exciting. Look to the innovative markets
like New York and California, and see what they are doing. Follow the
ding entertainment. According to Peter Merry, owner of Texas-based Merry
Weddings, and author of The Best Wedding Reception…Ever!, many couples are blogs and video diaries of wedding entertainment leaders.” The time
you spend searching for the best and brightest will pay off in smiles
“doing sketches or choreographed dance routines in hopes of becoming the
and squeals of glee from your outrageously happy newlyweds as they
next YouTube viral video sensations." Liz Daley, owner of Liz Daley Events
dance the night away. ••
and president of WED Guild®, a source for top national and international
14
International
Deep roots give rise to rich
Traditions in Jewish Weddings
The basic blueprint for a Jewish wedding
is not much different from any other kind. The
bride and groom walk down the aisle, say some
form of “I do,” kiss, and then party the night
away. Yet, the traditions involved in Jewish weddings go deeper. Sprinkled among the events are
customs with rich history and meaning, which
usually symbolize more than one concept. Here’s
a closer look at Jewish weddings:
The private marriage contract
Before their wedding day, the couple purchases
a ketubah. At its core, the ketubah is a marriage
contract between the bride and groom. Lately, it
is also considered a piece of beautiful art, which
the couple can display in their home after the
ceremony. The ketubah is signed in a private
ceremony before the public one. Under the chuppah, or marriage canopy, the couple meets with
the officiant, two witnesses, and their immediate family and close friends to sign the ketubah.
Technically, this is all that’s needed to marry.
Once the couple signs it and the officiant recites
some prayers, they are “Jewishly” married.
Some joke that when the groom steps on
the glass, it will be his last time putting his
foot down. In any case, the groom should be
extremely careful with his technique. Salli
Goldstein, a wedding and events consultant and
day-of coordinator says, “I tell the guys not to
wear Italian loafers because the loafers are very
soft.” At one wedding she coordinated, Goldstein
recalls the glass breaking through the sole of
the groom’s shoe. He was rushed to the ER
while everyone else went to the reception. “He
came back, but he couldn’t really dance,” says
Goldstein, the Dallas-based owner of Salli G. To
avoid such a catastrophe, Goldstein recommends
a specific glass and a way of wrapping it. “I use a
small, 25-watt light bulb,” she says. “I take that
light bulb, wrap it in adhesive tape, put it in a
plastic bag, and then wrap it in a napkin.”
Time alone to enjoy the experience
After the ceremony, the couple is escorted into
a private area for alone time. In biblical times,
this period called yichud was when the couple
consummated the marriage. Today, that’s
obviously not a regular occurrence, but it’s still
a nice moment for the couple to relax, enjoy
The public ceremony
each other’s company, and relish in their new,
The chuppah ceremony occurs in front of all
married titles. Practically speaking, it’s also a
invited guests, after the ketubah signing. The
perfect time to grab a snack or even sip some
bride and groom are escorted down the aisle by
both of their parents. The officiant recites bless- celebratory champagne. During this time, “I
always have a snack for them because they’re too
ings for the couple and their marriage, often
accompanied by sips of wine symbolizing a sweet nervous to eat before, and I offer a glass of wine
or champagne to go with it,” says Goldstein.
life and a fruitful harvest of offspring. Planners
seasoned in Jewish weddings know to use white
The dance of royalty
wine as drips or spatters won’t stain the bride’s
The hora is an exciting part of a Jewish wedding
dress as badly.
reception. The traditional circle dance is usually
filled with spirit—sometimes performances
Rings are exchanged during the ceremony,
from outgoing guests as well. The newlyweds
but, unlike non-Jewish weddings, the rings,
are lifted into chairs and hoisted high above
which are meant to be solid, unbroken bands,
their friends and family. The custom likens the
are placed on the couple’s pointer fingers. This
bride and groom to royalty on their wedding
is because the pointer finger is believed to be
day. The high position allows them to look
the most direct finger to the heart. The solid,
upon their kingdom as if they’re on top of
unbroken bands symbolize eternity and trust.
their thrones. It’s best to use armchairs for this
Modern brides will usually borrow a granddance. Having something to hold on to secures
mother’s old, solid band so the bride can still
the bride and groom in place and allows them
wear a flashier version after the ceremony.
to relax so they can enjoy this festive tradition.
The dos and don’ts of stomping glass
According to Goldstein, what makes Jewish
Stepping on the glass is the part of Jewish
weddings unique is that they involve the whole
weddings that all guests and grooms look
family. Both sets of parents are part of the
forward to most. There are many reasons for
planning, they stand under the chuppah with
this tradition, but connections have been
made between the fragility of glass and that of the couple, and they are honored in various
ways throughout the day. What else can be
love and marriage. Both, therefore, should be
found at almost any Jewish wedding? Warmth,
treated with care. This custom also symbolizes
love, and deeply rooted heritage. ••
the destruction of the temple in Israel.
© MiBelle Photography
By Alison Friedman, The Wedding Yentas, Los Angeles
Jewish Wedding Terminology 101:
Bedeken: This is the veiling of the bride before the
wedding ceremony. The groom places her veil over
her face so he can be sure he’s marrying his intended.
This goes back to biblical times when Jacob married
Leah by accident, because her face was veiled. He
thought he was marrying Rachel. Others say it is
when the groom publicly demonstrates that his love
and affection for his new bride goes beyond physical
beauty; he loves her for what he cannot see. Chuppah: The wedding canopy, the chuppah is often
adorned with flowers or décor but must be open
on all four sides and have four poles and a covering
above. The poles can be secured to the ground or
held by honored guests or bridal party members. The
canopy can be anything as simple as a piece of cloth
or an heirloom like a bar mitzval tallit (prayer shawl)
or a great-grandmother’s table cloth. This symbolizes
the couple’s first married home and that it will always
be open and welcoming for family and friends.
Hora: This is a fun, traditional dance where guests
hold hands and grapevine in a circle. “Hava Nagila,”
a traditional Jewish song, accompanies the music,
but musicians sometimes add songs from Fiddler on
the Roof.
Kippot: These are head coverings, sometimes referred
to as yarmulkes. Sometimes, the bride and groom
provide them for male guests to wear, though it is not
a requirement if the ceremony is not in a synagogue.
Sheva Brachot: This is a series of seven blessings said
under the chuppah.
Simcha: A term for a happy celebration, like a wed-
ding or another joyous event.
Tisch: Literally, this means “table.” Occuring before
the bedeken, it’s a time for men to gather with the
groom and tell stories, offer luck and advice, sing
songs, and recite blessings just before escorting him
to see his bride.
15
Attend and earn .5 point for each full hour of
education. For more information, or to register,
visit www.BridalAssn.com.
Araceli Lopez is the new romance director at the
Mexico Board of Tourism. Lopez is based in New York
and is ready to provide ideas for couples seeking a special
destination wedding in Mexico.
Chicago Social Brides in spring 2014; “Frankly Speaking” in
the Windy City Times on Feb. 5; and in “Spotlight on Style”
in Chicago Style Weddings' March/April issue.
Atgron, Inc., was mentioned in “Dot-coms Make Room for
.company” in the Toronto Star on Feb. 8.
Expanding Horizons: Building & Remodeling
Bridal Business
Sunday, May 4, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Jennifer Ball,
Knot Your Average
Event, Burlington,
N.C., was recently
featured on the
cover and in a
feature story for
Alamance Woman
Magazine in the
February issue.
The Event Connections, Dayton, Ohio
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-and-remodelingyour-bridal-business-seminar-tickets-10816611777
World of Wedding Planning (WOW)
Saturday, May 17, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Courtyard by Marriott, Merrillville, Ind.
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/wow-planning-bring-yourbinder-tickets-10615664739
Webinars
Webinars last one hour. Upon finishing the webinar and
essay question, a certificate of completion will be emailed
and the attendant will earn .5 point in education. For more
information, or to register, visit www.BridalAssn.com.
Timelines, Design Layouts, and Staying Between
the Lines
Tuesday, May 20, 12 – 1 p.m.
Ginia Lucas, MWV™, Y-Knot Rentals
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/webinar-time-linesdesign-layouts-schedules-tickets-10332355353
Regional Meetings
Attend and earn two points per full day for education and
professional development. For more information, or to
register, visit www.BridalAssn.com.
Mid-Atlantic Conference
August 19-20
New Jersey
State Meetings
For local Networking Group meetings, please contact your
state coordinator or visit www.BridalAssn.com.
ABC Annual Conference
Business of Brides
Sunday – Tuesday, Nov. 8-12
Sandals, Whitehouse, Whitehouse, Jamaica
www.BusinessofBrides.com
www.BridalAssn.com
Holly Lynch, owner of The Season Events, Rome, Ga., has
partnered with local caterer, Ray Harris. Harris will become
the director of catering for the growing business. The
partnership provides an expansion opportunity for both
companies. The Season Events has a mission to provide the
most detailed planning and design services for weddings,
conferences, and social occasions. Lynch also runs the
bartending division of a company called Spirits Bartending
Service. Adding delicious and well-presented food is a
natural expansion of the company’s existing services. The
company also updated it's logo and name, from The Season
to The Season Events.
Adrienne McAdory, Atgron, Inc., announced that the
domain extension .wed broke new ground by offering more
than 600 expressive third-level extensions couples can use
to personalize their wedding website by creating any domain name with letters numbers and dashes to the left of
the dot. Information to the right of the dot must be chosen
from the list of available extensions (i.e. yourdomainname.
wed or yourdomainname.thirdlevelextension.wed). For
more information, visit www.atgron.wed.
© Kishana Highgate Photography
Association of Bridal Consultants Meetings & News
Seminars
Events, Laurel, Md., won
first place in the general
category at the annual
Tabletop Design Contest
at the Association of
Bridal Consultants
Maryland/D.C. Chapter
State Meeting on Feb. 22.
This is the third year in
a row she has won first
place in this contest.
Achievements
The Knot Best of Weddings Award and made it into The
Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame.
AnnaMarie Wintercorn, MBC™, Elegant Weddings and
LaDonna Weddings, Macomb, Mich., won the 2013
All Star Award from Constant Contact for having email
campaigns with an above-average open rate.
Laura Davis, ABC™, Laura Davis Events, Royal Oak, Mich.,
joined the Michigan board of directors of Wish Upon a
Wedding as the public relations and media chair.
Gail Johnson Weddings & Events, Decatur, Ga., was
named to the 2014 Wedding Industry Experts Honor Roll.
John Goolsby, Godfather Films, Riverside Calif., ABC
Diane York, Diane York Weddings and Events, Inc.
Portland, Maine, attended the REFINE workshop on March
18 – 19 in San Diego, Calif. The workshop, hosted by Alison
Howard of the San Diego-based business Alison Howard
Events, focused on video marketing, social media marketing,
email tips and strategies, and how to sell to millennials.
State Manager for California, Nevada, and Hawaii, has been
selected as the closing keynote speaker for the Wedding
MBA Convention at the Las Vegas Convention Center on
Sept. 18, 2014.
Michelle Johnstone Clark, Waterlily Weddings, Ireland
In the Media
16
Kim Horn, MBC™, Arizona Bridal Source, Phoenix, was
on Fox 10 Jan. 6, in a segment about 2014 wedding trends.
Models included Miss Arizona 2011, Miss Arizona 2012,
Braidy Hunt, and Alexa Horn.
Events, Stuart, Fla., was honored at the St. Joseph Catholic
Church and School 14th Annual Caritas Christi on Jan. 26, at
Gail Johnson, ABC™, Gail Johnson Weddings & Events,
Willoughby Golf Club for serving on the committee from the Decatur, Ga., was featured in “Wedding Planner Leaves
year 2000 on and coordinating and orchestrating the evening. Nothing to Chance” in the Jan. 8 issue of The Champion.
WeddingWire 2014 Couples Choice Award Winners
included: Coordinated to Perfection, Fresh Meadows,
N.Y.; Something Borrowed Something New Events,
Uxbridge, Mass.; LaDonna Weddings, Macomb, Mich.; and
Cynthia Ross Affairs, New Hyde Park, N.Y.
and Maryland, was one of three finalist for the Wedding
Planner of the Year at the Irish Weddingsonline industry
awards in February in Dublin.
Events, Royal Oak,
Mich., was featured
on local NBC news
(WDIV Detroit) in
November 2013,
sharing tips on planning the perfect holiday party and in
December 2013 sharing advice on proper holiday party
etiquette; was interviewed for a story about Wish Upon
a Wedding that appeared in the March 5 edition of the
Shelby-Utica News; and appeared in a television interview
for Wish Upon a Wedding on Street Beat on CW50 Detroit
on March 8.
Michele Stallings Mills,
PFC™, CWP, Adorned
Something Borrowed Something New Events,
Uxbridge, Mass., was selected to win the 2014 Best of The
Knot in Boston and in New Hampshire.
Cynthia Ross Affairs, New Hyde Park, N.Y., received a 2014
Laura Davis,
ABC™, Laura Davis
Frank J. Andonoplas, MBC™, Frank Events, Chicago, was
featured in “Scene Chicago Weddings” and “Top Design” in
Amy E. VanMeter, PBC™, Amy VanMeter Events LLC, Winchester, Va., was selected as a 2014 Top Wedding Vendor
in the Shenandoah Valley by Virginia Living Magazine in its
February issue.
AnnaMarie Wintercorn, MBC™, Elegant Weddings and
Events, Stuart, Fla., was featured in the Stuart News in
“Luminaries” on March 10.
Correction
In the Same-Sex Marriage Series Part One, the photo of the
two gentlemen on page 18 should have been credited to
wedding planner Magnolia Bluebird Events & Design
along with the photographer credit.
The Association of Bridal Consultants congratulates the
following members who achieved designation January –
March 2014.
Professional Bridal Consultant™
Kamarah Angus, The Event Revolution—Kalydaskope,
Snellville, Ga.
Noriko Chiba, Japan
Cindy Harrington, Together As One, Fayetteville, N.C.
Kayla Jackson, Moonlight & Lace, Mansfield, La.
Accredited Bridal Consultant™
Connie Amos-Parsons, At Your Service Events Planner,
Lynchburg, Va.
RoDonna Brewster, Unforgettably Yours Event Planning
Service, District Heights, Md.
Paulette Davis, Amour Affairs, Nassau, Bahamas
Charity to Offer "Urgent" Wishes for Imminently
Ill Individuals Throughout U.S.
Wish Upon A Wedding, the world’s first nonprofit organization dedicated to providing weddings and vow renewals
for individuals facing terminal illness and other serious
life-altering circumstances, will provide weddings and
vow renewals for couples anywhere in the United States.
Until now, wishes were limited to only areas where there
were local chapters. The charity's current 13 chapters will
continue to grant weddings and vow renewals in their area,
but will now extend beyond their region, helping form
wish granting teams in all 50 states that will be called upon
when their services are needed.
Since the charity was founded in 2010, Wish Upon a
Wedding has granted more than 60 wedding and vow
renewal wishes for couples facing life-threatening illnesses
across the country. In 2013, 10 weddings and vow renewals
were fulfilled for deserving couples by the charity and its
generous wish granters.
In addition to granting wishes anywhere in the United
States for individuals with less than five years to live,
Wish Upon A Wedding will now grant "urgent" wishes for
individuals who are imminently ill. These smaller, intimate
ceremonies will take place in the couple's home, hospital,
or hospice facility within a few weeks after their wish is
approved by the charity.
Wish Upon A Wedding encourages individuals with a terminal prognosis or devastating circumstance to apply online
for a wish by visiting Wish Upon A Wedding's website at
www.WishUponaWedding.org. The charity is also seeking
professionals in the wedding and hospitality industries
to provide their goods and services to help make these
weddings and vow renewals possible by submitting their
information online at www.WishUponaWedding.org.
Association of Bridal Consultantscode of ethics
David M. Wood III, President
Gerard J. Monaghan and Eileen P. Monaghan Co-Founders
Beverly Ann Bonner, APR, MBC™, Director of State Managers.................................................beverlyann@weddingbeautiful.com
Elayne Anderson, Director of Operations.......................................................................................................................info@BridalAssn.com
Candice Benson, MBC™, Director of Social Media..................................................................candice@thefinishingtouchevents.com
Gloria Boyden, MBC™, Director of Education....................................................................................................................eventsgrb@aol.com
Dena Davey, Director of Marketing.................................................................................................................................. [email protected]
Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™, Creative Director................................................................................................. [email protected]
Lois Pearce, MBC™, Director of Ethnic Diversity..........................................................................................lois@beautifuloccasions.com
Annemarie Steiner, Member Services........................................................................................................................mbrsvc@BridalAssn.com
Nicole DaSilva, Member Services......................................................................................................................................mob@BridalAssn.com
ABC Office: 1.860.355.7000, fax 1.860.354.1404, BridalAssn.com, 56 Danbury Road, Ste. 11, New Milford, CT 06776.
Our ABC members agree to:
• represent each client fairly and honestly,
providing all agreed-to services in a timely and
cost-efficient manner.
• establish reasonable and proper fees for services
and provide written estimates to each client.
• use honest, factual advertising.
• deal with employees and clients fairly, in an
unbiased manner.
• disclose to clients any payments received from
suppliers.
• operate an establishment that is a credit to the
community.
Association of Bridal Consultants Meetings & News
Designations
© sarah schultz photography
Wedding Planner Magazine Thanks Members
Welcomes Bruce Tood,
of First Advisory Board for Service
National Sales Representative
Wedding Planner Magazine is pleased to introduce you to
the newest member of its team: Bruce Todd, who brings
more than 13 years of sales experience, eight of which have
been in the wedding industry.
Todd also operates a successful wedding and events rental
company and offers design and décor services. "Bruce has
an impressive sales track record," says Nancy Flottmeyer,
publisher of Wedding Planner Magazine. "He has been
a sales manager and trainer, successfully beating quotas
and building sales teams across the United States. We are
excited to have him on our team." Todd is up for the challenge. "Wedding Planner Magazine is on the cusp of growth.
It is an amazing tool for our industry. I want to help it
continue to grow by increasing advertising and subscribers,
which will in turn allow the team to bring readers more of
the industry information they need," he says.
To contact Bruce Todd, call 1.608.780.9836 or email
[email protected]. ••
“Advice is like snow; the softer it falls, the longer it dwells
upon, and the deeper it sinks into the mind.”
— Samuel Taylor Coleridge
As the term of Wedding Planner Magazine's first advisory
board draws to a close, the magazine's team wishes to
extend its sincere thanks to each member for the many
years of advice and expertise.
"The Advisory Board has been so helpful and supportive
throughout our journey. Each member made valuable
contributions along the way; some going far beyond the
call of duty. We are grateful to what each contributed and
wish them well in the future. Wedding Planner Magazine is
better because of their service," says Beth Erickson, editor,
Wedding Planner Magazine.
The advisory board consisted of: Barbara Diez, MBC™, Barbara
Diez Event Planners, Argentina; Mark Kingsdorf, MBC™, Clermont, Fla.; Frank J. Andonoplas, MBC™, Frank Events, Chicago;
Tamara Lin Waterman, MBC™, Special Moments, Pinellas Park,
Fla.; Edward L. Griffin, MWV™, The Wedding DJs/Hardcastle
Entertainment, Inc., Renton, Wash.; John Goolsby, MEI, CPV,
MPV , Godfather Films, Riverside, Calif.; Shelly Stone, PBC™,
Signature Events by Shelly, Neenah, Wis.; and LaToya Parnell,
Something Blue Weddings, Washington, D.C.
Look for the July/August issue of Wedding Planner Magazine to read about the newest members of the Wedding
Planner Magazine Advisory Board. ••
17
f e at u r e
Same-Sex Marriage three-part Series Part two
Is Your Business Gay Friendly?
The Basics of Marketing to Same-Sex Couples
By Meghan Ely, OFD Consulting, Richmond, Va.
The following is the second article in a three-part series
on same-sex marriage, both culturally and politically and within the
wedding industry.
The scope of the market for same-sex marriage is broadening daily as
legal recognition of gay marriage spreads throughout the United States,
and social recognition of marriage equality takes root in contemporary
culture. Wedding professionals who plan to target marketing efforts
toward same-sex couples tailor their services to meet unique needs—
modernizing traditions from every culture and developing the skills
necessary to address the finer points of providing gay-friendly service.
Developing Gay-Friendly Service
Asked how wedding entertainment has evolved with the increase in gay
weddings, Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) member Liz Daley,
ABC™, of Liz Daley Events in Williamsburg, Va., points out that the
transition has been particularly painless in an industry where many
have long been comfortable with same-sex relationships. Yet, without
library shelves full of traditional etiquette rules, like those straight
couples may refer to during planning, same-sex couples, planners, and
other wedding professionals find themselves forging new paths and creating “new traditions.” Daley encourages couples to find their own take
on wedding formalities. She recently introduced two men as “husband
and husband” after discussing the grooms’ comfort and terminology
preferences.
explore the roots of traditions and seek awareness of modern twists so
they best can help customize Indian weddings for same-sex couples. “Be
in the know. Who comes in at the baraat? Who waits at the madap? Who
wants to do mehndi? Men do it, too!”
Cigall Goldman, founder of www.MazelMoments.com sees Jewish
weddings as perfect opportunities to embrace same-sex weddings. “It’s
no surprise that certain elements of the Jewish wedding ceremony are
evolving to become more inclusive,” says Goldman. “Traditionally, the
groom breaks the glass and the bride circles the groom seven times.
Modern couples, whether they be same-sex, interfaith, or simply want
a more egalitarian wedding, are personalizing and adapting these rituals…bride and bride, groom and groom, or bride and groom can break
the glass together!”
Ketubahs, which are customized for all couples, can feature symbolic images or colors that celebrate same-sex couples. Goldman has even seen
chuppahs made with the rainbow flag, symbol of the gay community,
as the wedding canopy. Small adaptations can be made to ceremonies
rooted in most cultures to create a more gender-neutral dialogue. Effectively executing these changes requires knowledge of traditions and
sensitivity towards today's same-sex couple.
Seek Information and Educational Opportunities
Addressing the needs of the expanding same-sex union market successfully means undergoing sometimes-significant professional development.
“In what has become an increasingly competitive marketplace, it’s not
Some changes simply require attention to detail. Christi Lopez, owner
enough,” says Kathryn Hamm, president of www.GayWeddings.com, “for
of Bergerons Florist in Washington, D.C., changed the forms she uses
wedding professionals to be ‘gay-friendly.’ They must be ‘gay wedding
when meeting with clients. “Bride and Groom” is now “Couple” or
“Client 1 and Client 2.” Lopez does not make assumptions either, “like competent.’ That is, to earn the business of same-sex couples, wedding
not assuming one will wear a boutonnière or carry a bouquet.” She finds pros need to be able to indicate to prospective clients that they are inclusive but also able to serve them as knowledgeably and as competently as
that couples are open to other options such as pocket squares that are
any other couple. These days, on-the-job training just won’t cut it.”
floral or decorative instead.
A relatively unique challenge for wedding planners servicing gay
weddings is the need to act as diplomat among service providers, some
of whom may not be as comfortable working with same-sex couples as
others. Resha Zazueta, a Houston-based event coordinator with Something to Celebrate Wedding and Event Coordination, warns that “the
only major difference [between weddings and any other kind of union]
is that you must be aware of any vendors who may not want to work
with the couple. Do not place the couple in a potentially uncomfortable
position.” Daley agrees. “If you secretly oppose same sex unions, don’t
take the job. Don’t even bid on the job. Everyone will see right through
the ruse. Politely become unavailable.”
Modernizing Wedding Traditions
Same-sex weddings are as diverse as straight weddings, and couples
require guidance when planning how to honor their cultural traditions.
Preeti Moberg, founder of the wedzine The Big Fat Indian Wedding,
suggests couples talk to their officiant to find ways that rituals can be
adjusted to meet their needs. “For example, the kanyadaan is the ‘giving
away’ of the daughter from her family to her husband’s. A same-sex
couple may rewrite the kanyadaan to give away both daughters to start
a new family of their own, give away one son to the other’s family,
or eliminate it entirely.” Moberg recommends that wedding planners
18
Planners should be sensitive to the journey same-sex couples have taken
to get closer to equality and recognition today; that journey flavors
every interaction and decision made in the planning process. Knowing
legislation and regulations, as well as regional attitudes and the sensibilities of other vendors is also important. It’s important to become
familiar with the ways other contemporary couples using rituals and
traditions to understand the origins of these traditions before adjusting
them to suit client needs. An open-minded and conscientious approach
to same-sex weddings will undoubtedly expand professional horizons
and enhance future opportunities. ••
Same-Sex Weddings—Here’s What You Had to Say
About Marketing
Responses compiled from a January 2014 survey of Wedding Planner Magazine
readers (338 responses with a 12% response rate).
• Nearly 72% noted that their marketing material contained inclusive language and images while 10% distributed marketing material specifically targeting same-sex couples.
• The most popular promotional tool to target same-sex couples was split between websites and social media platforms.
• Only 18% of respondents had submitted same-sex weddings to blogs or publications.
• Referrals were top strategy for informing same-sex wedding couples of services.
• www.GayWeddings.com/seminars—group and individual consultations for
professionals.
• wwwGayWeddings.com/industry-trends—the latest same-sex wedding trends
impacting wedding professionals.
• www.GayWeddings.com/real-weddings—get a closer look at the real wedding
events of same-sex couples.
• www.WedWeCan.com—information, community resources, inspired ideas,
and social media tools for the LGBTQ community and its straight allies, from
engaged couples to wedding professionals.
• www.FreedomToMarry.org—for legislative updates and events associated with
the national campaign to win marriage equality in the United States.
• www.hrc.org—For legislative updates and events on all issues impacting lesbian,
gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans.
• http://problog.WeddingWire.com—the latest news and technology to help
wedding professionals power their business, featuring a column dedicated to
same-sex couples by Education Expert Kathryn Hamm.
• www.GayWeddingInstitute.com—gay wedding certification course for professionals offered by Bernadette Coveney Smith.
• www.WeddingWireWorld.com—the award-winning user education conference
will embark on a multi-city tour of the United States with industry experts,
including Kathryn Hamm, president of www.GayWeddings.com, highlighting 2014
marketing resolutions; social, local, and mobile technologies; and small business
tips, tools, and resources.
FEATURE
Helpful Resources
Marketing/Public Relations Tips
• Never underestimate the value of research and thoughtful planning.
Take time to understand the target audience—their buying habits, tools they are using to plan their wedding, etc. Carefully develop the message you'd like to relay to them.
• Consider promotional options that primarily target same-sex couples, such as online directories, magazines, and bridal shows. Take time to do the same due diligence you would for any other advertorial opportunity by gathering the necessary information to make an informed decision.
• With the couples' consent, contemplate submitting same-sex weddings for publication as an effort to increase brand awareness for your company. The majority
of mainstream publications and blogs will enthusiastically welcome same-sex
weddings. There are also a number of media outlets that specialize in this niche.
Win a Copy of The New Art of Capturing Love!
Increasing legalization worldwide of same-sex marriages and unions means the
market for same-sex weddings is exploding, providing significant opportunities
for today’s wedding planners, photographers, and vendors. Yet few are equipped
for the nuances of weddings oriented toward same-sex couples. Published by
Amphoto Books (an imprint of Penguin Random House), The New Art of Capturing
Love: The Essential Guide to Lesbian and Gay Wedding Photography by Kathryn
Hamm, president of www.GayWeddings.com, and photographer Thea Dodds
of Authentic Eye Photography, is a groundbreaking guide to LGBTQ wedding
photography, offering tools for emotive and flattering images that are a must
when creating memories for same-sex couples. Wedding Planner Magazine is giving away one free copy to a lucky reader. If you would like a chance to win, please
email [email protected] with “Win a Copy” in the subject line. In
the body of the email, you must include your name, business name, complete
mailing address, and phone number. All entries must be received by midnight CST
on June 9, 2014, to qualify. The winner will be selected at random.
© Lara Rios Photography
2nd annual
application Deadine is May 31, 2014
for an application – www.weddingplannermag.com
19
f e at u r e
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color trends (78%); design trends (89%);
and Business of Brides (69%).
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? 25
Wedding Planner Magazine’s 2014 Reader Survey
The Results Are In!
By Beth Erickson, Wedding Planner Magazine Editor, La Crosse, Wis.
The 2014 Wedding Planner Magazine Reader Survey distributed
via Survey Monkey in early March received a 16 percent response rate
within a week. Although the results are not scientific, they do give a
good indication of our readers’ thoughts and feelings toward the publication—their preferences, likes, dislikes, and ideas for improvement.
Overall, the comments were positive. Cites one reader: “I use
the magazine as inspiration, a teaching tool, and for building and refining my business practices. It is enjoyable and I read it cover-to-cover,
highlighting and bending corners of pages and articles I want to return
to. It fires me up, rejuvenates me when I am feeling dry in my business,
and keeps me going!” Here are the results:
• In comparison to magazines with similar content, readers rated
Wedding Planner Magazine as good or excellent (83%).
• Most readers have been around as long as we have. 53% have
subscribed to the magazine for more than three years; 33% for 1-2 years, and 12% for less than one year.
• Most readers, 68%, spend 16-45 minutes with the magazine; 24% spend 46 minutes to more than one hour; and only 9% spend less than 15 minutes.
• Of our readers, the majority of 53% read the publication cover-to-
cover, with 45% skimming the magazine for relevant articles.
• The pass along value of Wedding Planner Magazine is significant with 42% sharing the magazine with one to three people, 7% sharing with four to six people, and 4% sharing it with seven plus people.
• While most products have an expiration date, most readers haven’t found it yet for Wedding Planner Magazine. Fully 45% of readers keep copies indefinitely; 16% keep copies for more than one year; 20% for
four to 12 months; and 19% for one to three months.
• Wedding Planner Magazine readers use the information within the magazine for business strategies/ideas (87%); creative ideas (78%); and enjoyment (59%).
• Readers feel the overall design of the magazine is good (51%) or
excellent (38%).
• Favorite departments that readers “very much enjoy; read every issue” include: Industry Best Practices (78%); Real Weddings (75%); and ABC Meetings & News (55%).
• Favorite columns that readers “very much enjoy; read every issue” include: Ask the Experts (69%); Business Basics (66%); and ABC Member Insight (50%). ••
20
Reader Profile—statistics compiled based on the top responses.
The average reader of Wedding Planner Magazine:
Is a wedding planner (90%).
Has been in the industry 11+ years (37%); 1-5 years (34%); 6-10 years (29%).
Is 30-39 years old (30%); 40-49 (26%); 50-59 (25%).
Resides in the United States (93%).
Nays & Yays
In the survey, we asked readers to comment on what they liked most about
Wedding Planner Magazine and what they liked least. Often, the two coincide.
What one reader likes about the magazine, another might not. Still, a great deal
of useful information and insight was gained from the feedback. Here are some of
the positives and negatives that reflected reader survey comments as a whole.
Nays
• Layout: Some felt there was too much white space, others too little. Other comments: “We have been driven to a culture of graphics and color, while the text is important to the article, not enough graphics support the text.” “Layout is not very sophisticated.” “The ads sometimes clash a bit design-wise.” “The font, color and size makes it difficult to read, and I have really good eyes.”
• Audience: Some readers felt the content was targeted too much to the novice planner and others felt it was angled to the seasoned veterans.
• Content: Some felt the international, catering, destination wedding, ABC News, and Master Bridal Consultant™ information was not relevant to their business.
• Frequency: “I wish it came more often.”
• Size: “Magazine is too small/low number of pages.”
• Contributors: “There seems to be the same contributors.”
• Focus: “Too wedding planner focused.”
Yays
• Layout: “Attractive format.” “Full color, rich in content.” “Not a lot of advertising (yay!).” “Beautiful, full color photos.” “Slick paper and colored photos. Feels professional.”
• Audience: “It is for industry planners and pros.”
• Content: Readers liked that it was quick and easy to read and that articles feature new trends and ideas written by “ABC planners.” Favorite content included ABC News, creative ideas, Real Weddings, Ask the Experts, Industry
Best Practices, Master Bridal Consultants™, destination weddings, color
trends, design.
• Contributors: “I like how industry professionals have a vessel to give advice, receive advice, and showcase their talents among their peers.”
• Focus: “Gives me a feel for what is happening in other parts of the country.”
“I like that it has relevance to the business side of things.”
m a s t e r p ro f i l e
Master bridal consultant™
jessica a. robinson, MBC™, CSS
© seldana Photography
© Morningstar Photography
© Imagine Photography
© Cook and Co photography
Elegant Events, www.ElegantPlanning.com, Largo, Md.
Employees: 2
Revenue Breakdown: 60% consulting, 5% day-of coordination, 35% event design/rentals/stationery
Contact: 240.296.0941, [email protected], LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram at eleganteventsllc,
Twitter @elegant_events, Pinterest at eleganteventsdc
L-r: A three-tiered cake for a peacock-and-bling themed wedding at the Marriott University of Maryland Conference Center; simple elements
make a classic statement at the Westin Resort Baltimore-Washington International; a flirty summer wedding by the dock in the Maryland Eastern
shore; this wedding was a cultural mixing bowl of Maryland, Los Angeles, Thailand, and Cambodia.
Education: I graduated from Eleanor
Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Md., but
obtained most of my education working in the
industry from age 15 on. I also read industry
webinars, blogs, and books to stay current.
On becoming an MBC™: It was not, initially,
a goal of mine to obtain Master Bridal Consultant™ designation. I just wanted to work hard
at being a great planner! In return, my work
and business history put me in position to be
eligible for the designation. I received Professional Bridal Consultant™ designation in 2007;
Accredited Bridal Consultant™ in 2010, and
Master Bridal Consultant™ in 2013.
On the business: My family owned a small
catering business, and my mom was a decorator
for that business and our church. She was also
in sales for an event rental company. I started
working in events at 15, handling the billing
for our catering business and taking care of
the linen orders and floor plans for upcoming
events. I started my business seven years later
in August 2002. I believe business will increase
this year. Brides value credible planners now
more than in previous years. They are seeking
out those who set themselves apart.
Goals: I want to continue making every year
in this industry better than the years before
and being an even more awesome me! However,
I would love to be featured on a TV show or in a
major magazine, too.
On the ABC: I joined ABC in November 2006,
because I wanted to become a part of an organization that had a vested interest in my personal
growth. I had previously been a member of other
organizations and felt it was more about whom I
knew that mattered. After coming to a local ABC
meeting, I felt inspired to know more about the
wedding industry and grow my business!
Mentors: Shelby Tuck-Horton, MBC™, the
Maryland/DC state manager, has been a huge
inspiration and the most valuable asset to the
success of my career. By her actions, she has
demonstrated how being a quality planner who
is authentic can equal a successful career!
Industry influencers: Susan Southerland,
PBC™, and Diann Valentine.
Inspiration: I follow several pages on
Facebook, Twitter, and other social media
outlets. Daily, I come across photos and quotes
that inspire color palettes and themes for my
events. I’m also inspired by the fashion and
home décor industries.
Marketing strategy: My marketing strategy
involves social media engagement, personally
connecting and educating clients throughout
the process so they understand how the process
works and share the successful outcomes with
friends, which creates residual business.
On staying fresh: Continuing education
through seminars and conferences, as well as
creating obtainable personal and professional
goals annually helps, as does reviewing them at
the end of each year.
Ideal client: She’s the perfect balance of
business and art. She is a career-driven woman
who knows what she likes but is not afraid to
trust a professional to expand her vision. She’s
realistic with her expectations and understands
that her event fits into the grand scheme of the
wedding industry.
Reading now: The Susan Southerland Secret,
by Susan Southerland, Kristy Chenell, and
Karen Gingerich, and The Power to Sizzle, by
Cheryl Wood.
Favorite shows: I’m a huge HGTV buff!
I love seeing color palettes and décor being
created from unconventional resources.
Hobbies: I enjoy time with my family and
friends, whether it be shopping, bowling, or
watching our favorite shows. I’m a foodie, so I
love trying new restaurants, and I’m a die-hard
NFL fan. Go Skins!
Words of wisdom: Just be you! Often, we
get so caught up in following and pursuing
the dreams of others that we forget that our
individual gifts are what make us so unique
that others will pay us to hear what WE think.
To me, that is success! It’s like Mayo Angelou
says, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you
do, and liking how you do it.”
On giving back: I am honored to be the
wedding planner instructor at the College of
Southern Maryland–LaPlata Campus for more
than three years. I also help plan several of the
social events at my church. ••
21
a s k t h e e x p e rt s
Industry Experts Tackle Your Toughest Questions
Q:
“What is the one thing you know now that you wish you knew starting out?” Q: “What do you do as an ethical wedding professional when a planner in your
Karen Nelson, Something Blue Weddings, Peoria, Ill.
marketplace charges lower initial fees to their clients but then demands a percentage of everyone else’s contracts without disclosing it to the client?”
A:
“How much this career would cut into my personal/family time. But, to
- Wendy Dahl, PBC™, Chic Productions, Huntington Beach, Calif.
remedy this, I have carved out weekly when I do not take appointments, and I
schedule vacations well in advance. Most clients actually get it and respect it. It’s
A:
“There are several consultants in my area who demand as much as 20-25
all about balance—and a very understanding husband.”
percent. This is how they can charge a low fee, and I lose business to them. But
- Frank J. Andonoplas, MBC™, Frank Events, Chicago
then, the client winds up paying more for vendors, as the vendors have to raise
their prices to accommodate for this. I find it unethical. There is really nothing you
“Even though the customer is always right, not everybody who wants to hire you
can do, as this is all hearsay from vendors I know and love. I have heard that several
is your customer. I wish I knew when I started that it is okay to tell a customer that vendors will no longer work with this company for this reason. I never ask who
you are not a good fit. We've all had jobs we wish we had turned down. When that else a client is interviewing, and would never bad mouth anyone or bring this up to
little voice starts telling you that this is one of the jobs you should pass on, it is
prospective clients as a reason to hire me over them.”
probably right.”
- John Goolsby, Godfather Films, Riverside, Calif.; ABC state manager for California,
Nevada, Hawaii
“Are they a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC)? I believe not
disclosing such arrangements are a violation of the ABC Code of Ethics. If they are
“How important is it to have a wedding program for the guest?”
not ABC members, there is not a lot you can do. This is common business practice in
- Anonymous
some fields. To the vendor and their bottom line, is it any different than a consultant
requiring vendors to whom they refer to give the client a 10 percent discount? This is
“Weddings are often part family reunion and part family introduction,
how many consultants sell their service to justify their fee. Most vendors are happy
especially for out-of-town guests. It is nice to let everyone know who’s whom.
to give a discount or do something extra when they are working with consultants
Some people also like to have a memento. This is great for the invitation and print- they like, because they get many referrals from them and they make the vendor’s job
ing people. Even so, many programs will end up in the recycle bin.”
easier. I’ve always felt you should refer a vendor because they do a good job and that
- Ed Griffin, MWV™, The Wedding DJs/Hardcastle Entertainment, Renton, Wash.
makes you look good. Now, if the consultant is the one actually signing the contract
and paying the vendors, they can add whatever percentage they want, because they
“I think this is totally optional and up to the client. Is it important to them? Is it
are acting as the client. I believe your real question is: How do you compete and still
within the budget? It is something not necessary and something to cut if you need
make a living? Do a great job. Charge a fair price. Be creative in your marketing. There
to bring down the budget. I do think that they need to be kept simple, not a ‘novel.’” is no question it will be hard to compete against a lower entry price.”
Q:
A:
Q:
“Does your company have event-day coordinators (besides yourself) that can Q:“I have been thinking of adding wedding décor and floral services to my
oversee your event without you being there? If so, what kind of training do you
wedding planning and coordination business. The only thing holding me back is
give them in addition to the on-the-job experience they gain at events? And, how
do you determine what to pay them for this role?”
- Christine Terezakis, MBC™, Dreamday Weddings & Events
A:
“Not me. I’ve branded myself as Frank, and they get Frank. I have a strict
policy of only one wedding a weekend. This way, they get me and my staff to
manage their wedding onsite. Yes, this does impact the numbers of weddings I can
take on, but I charge accordingly.”
Q:
“If you charge a flat-rate coordination fee based on the average time it takes
you to plan and coordinate a wedding but the client goes way over this time
allocation within the early stages of the planning, how do you address needing to
add more time/fees to your agreement?”
- Michelle Johnstone Clark, Waterlily Weddings, Ireland
A:
“I do charge a flat fee, and do not have a fee escalation clause in my
contract. My thought is—then what is the point of charging a flat fee? You need
to be confident that you are satisfied with your fee when you go to contract.
Sometimes, you do the coulda/woulda/shoulda thing and realize you should have
charged more, but that is what comes with charging a flat fee.”
“We do not increment our fees if the client goes beyond the time we had estimated. Each wedding is unique. We charge a flat rate. Each couple needs different
things at different times. Sometimes, couples go beyond, but, sometimes, they
need less time and effort on your part.
Always give your best! And when you set your fee, take into account it could take
you more time than what you think.”
- Barbara Diez, MBC™, Barbara Diez Events, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ask Our Experts!
not having enough space to store the décor that wedding professionals use to
create beautiful arrangements for their events. Also, I would like to know if the
décor used by most wedding professionals is owned or rented? If rented, can you
recommend some rental companies you use? If owned, how do you manage old
inventory with new and trendy wedding décor?”
- Veronica Chukwu, Utterly Elegant Weddings, Carteret, N.J.
A:
“When it comes to offering décor, go big or go home. To make it in that field,
most of the time you need a big warehouse, a big truck, and a big crew. You need
everything in quantity. Without the space, you will struggle. For floral, you will also
need those specialized refrigerators. Most large cities have some sort of décor
company locally. You may be able to build a relationship with them over time and
receive wholesale rates. If you are in a small town, you may have a real opportunity
and fill that niche. No question, if you provide décor, you will need to update your
inventory regularly. Fads and fashion change on a whim.”
“I have no desire to be a florist or a rental company. I leave these aspects up to the
professionals who do this and do this well—just as they leave consulting up to me. I
work with not against these pros to design the wedding. This is why it is imperative
to know which vendor owns what, so I know who will be the best fit for my clients.
This means you need to keep in touch with these vendors and know what they have
in inventory, what is new, and what they are no longer using. This, to me, is vital since
I always feel that their sense of style should be incorporated into all aspects of the
wedding, thus hitting all of the senses—taste, smell, sight, hearing, and touch.”
Is there a situation that’s been puzzling you? Do you want answers? Email your wedding industry questions to [email protected]. Be sure to put “Ask the Experts” in the subject line and include your full name, designation(s), business name and
city and state. Questions are answered by our Advisory Board.
22
Reflecting on and analyzing the event begins
after, on that Sunday when moving your body
is an effort. As planners, we should consider
how many hours went into making that event
happen and how we could have made more
money—and should have after the extra hours
involved solving crises like finding a new tent
provider, suddenly moving the ceremony inside
due to rain, providing extra help with the bridal
shower, and considering the many miles put on
the car driving back and forth to walk-throughs
and tastings. But how can we add to our bottom line and remain competitive?
3. Watch the trends
Watching trends closely showed us that
chandeliers in a tent amped up the elegance.
In the Green Bay region, there is not a rental
company that carries chandeliers for use with
tents. I was shocked and knew these needed
to be available. I ordered a set of three neutral,
crystal chandeliers to match our candelabras.
Café lights were also purchased for more rustic,
laidback outdoor brides. Café lights are now
used at every one of our outdoor events.
4. Add the big items
Once we had a handle on the small items, it
was time to take the big leap. By the time I saw
what customers paid to ship furniture to and
from a metro area to our neck of the woods, I
realized this was a necessity. The shipping costs
were more than the cost of the rentals. For our
inventory, we chose to keep it simple, clean, and
versatile. We stock four white-leather, modernAround two years ago, I noticed something
line, high-back sofas; one round sofa; and two
had to change for my own bottom line. I was
vintage blue sofas. With these seven pieces, we
putting my body and mind through the ringer cover every style of wedding, accessorizing with
every weekend for little money, and it seemed pillows and slipcovers. Brides often contribute to
Uncle Sam just wanted more and more of my finding some signature pillows for their events.
profit. I knew I couldn’t charge much more in
my region and stay competitive. What was I
5. Keep it fresh
going to change so I could keep doing what I
Keep an eye to the future of design. Watch what
love? For my company, rentals were the key.
is coming down the interior design pipeline.
We knew we had to offer people a choice:
After all, what brides see in Pottery Barn, West
items we had or could own easily versus
Elm, or a Crate & Barrel inspires them, and they
renting everything from the company down
want to see those details at their wedding. We
the road and watching that money walk out
can often create items on our own that closely
the door. We chose to grow our inventory bit resemble high-priced design elements.
by bit. After all, we didn’t want everything
we worked so hard for to disappear onto
5. Calculate your profits
storage shelves! For us, adding rentals paid
When pricing rental items, it’s important to
off. My planning fee intake doubled, and we
stay competitive with a larger market and take
added another 200 percent in growth on the
the expense of transit out of the equation.
rental end for a total revenue increase of 300 To get the most out of your rentals, get your
percent! Here's how we did it:
entire purchase price back in one rental or, at
most, two rentals. If, for some reason, you are
1. Start with the basics
unable to add the item to your inventory, you
We purchased very basic items first, like vocan still rent it and bring it in from another
tives, a must at every event. Candlelight in my vendor. For my company, adding rentals to the
eyes is the best way to make a room sparkle and bottom line has tripled profits within the last
feel romantic. We started with clear votives,
two years. Sticking a little bit of the profits at
then added colors, crystal, and of course,
a time back into rentals helps us stay on trend
mercury. We expanded by adding lanterns to
and realize huge rewards. Brides come to us for
light pathways, work into simple centerpiece
rental items and are also purchasing planning
designs, and hang in trees. Now, they are a
packages to have access to those items for their
must at every outdoor event we do.
big day. Although we are not a rental company,
we require setup and takedown of our rentals
2. Keep an eye on common requests
to ensure quality products, good service, and to
Seeing repeated requests for the same
maintain the safety of our items.
tablescape items led to our next investment
in clear, cylinder vases, an array of floating
If you’re considering adding rentals to your
candle décor, and candelabras. We purchased bottom line, stay on top of the trends, offer
crystal candelabras, which can work in
the newest items, and you are guaranteed to
everything from rustic décor to very elegant stay at the top of your market and watch your
country club settings.
income soar. ••
A B C m e mb e r i n s i g h t
Planning the most fabulous event is one of
the best feelings. Watching the looks on guests’
faces throughout the evening and getting an
amazing response from the couple when they
see the reception space is a feeling that can send
a planner over the moon and back.
Make Your
Income Soar
by Adding
Rentals to Your
Bottom
Line
By Allison Kline, ABC™, sash&bow,
Green Bay, Wis.
Allison Kline, ABC™, is the
Association of Bridal Consultants state manager for
Wisconsin and Minnesota
and owner of sash&bow,
Strike a Pose, and Birch
Haven in Green Bay, Wis.
Kline fell into the bridal
industry in her late teens
when working in bridal
boutiques. Four years after starting sash&bow, a
wedding and event planning company, she became
the premier planner in the area—coordinating and
planning more than 50 events annually, planning
the décor for another 30, assisting non-profits in
doubling their fundraising at events, owning over
$100,000 in inventory, and having 12 employees.
23
business basics
Wedding insurance helps make things right
when something goes wrong*
By Meagan Phillips, Wedding Protector Plan and Southern Glam Weddings & Events, Tampa, Fla.
It’s no doubt you’re an amazing wedding planner, but what
happens if something pops up that is beyond your control? For
instance, what would you do if a hurricane was predicted to hit the
day of your client’s wedding? What if the photographer never gave
the couple their photos after the wedding? The bride is turning to you
for guidance. Why stress over situations even the most experienced
planner cannot rectify? Wedding insurance ensures your client’s big
day goes as planned.
As you know, a wedding is an investment. As the costs associated with
weddings continue to climb, wedding insurance is more important
than ever. After all, your clients wouldn’t purchase a new car without
insuring against damage. Their wedding should be no different. For as
little as $160 and no deductible, wedding insurance policies can cover a
variety of situations for your clients, such as:
• Wardrobe malfunctions. Your client can get repair or replacement costs if the bride’s wedding gown or groom’s tuxedo is lost or damaged.
• Lost deposits. Insurers will reimburse your client’s deposit if a vendor goes out of business, declares bankruptcy before their wedding, or simply fails to show up.
• Lost rings. Your client can receive repair or replacement costs if the bride’s or groom’s wedding bands are lost or damaged.
• Severe weather. If severe weather forces your clients to postpone their wedding, insurers provide reimbursement for non-recoverable expenses.
• Transportation shutdown. If your client has to postpone the
wedding because a commercial transportation shutdown prevents
either one of the engaged couple or their immediate family from getting to the wedding, they can receive reimbursement for non-
recoverable expenses.
• Venue requires insurance. As an additional option, couples can add
liability coverage to protect themselves in case a guest is injured or causes damage to property.
• Liquor liability. As an individual liability option to their policy,
couples can add this when they purchase liability coverage. It protects them against liability arising from alcohol-related occurrences at the event location.
• Additional expense. If a vendor suddenly becomes unavailable for
your client’s event but they can find a last-minute replacement,
insurers can reimburse the couple for the difference in cost.
Brides and grooms have been insuring their weddings for nearly 20
years, but the concept gained popularity in August 2011 when Hurricane
Irene disrupted more than 6,000 weddings along the East Coast and
then, again, in October 2012 when Hurricane Sandy affected more than
2,300 weddings along the same coastline. Unfortunately, many of those
weddings were uninsured and couples were left scrambling to salvage
any remaining parts of their wedding plans.
Another popular reason for coverage is to preserve the wedding
memories preserved through photography and video. According to an
analysis of all Wedding Protector Plan 2012 wedding insurance claims,
58 percent were related to vendor mishaps involving problems with the
photographer. According to The 2012 Wedding Report, couples spent
approximately $4,178 on average on photography and videography.
Wedding insurance can provide the protection to help couples avoid the
added costs of unexpected wedding glitches. (Data had not been released
yet for 2013 at the time of this publishing.)
If price is an obstacle, consider this. Wedding insurance isn’t expensive
compared to the cost of the average wedding. Coverage should be
purchased as soon as clients start signing contracts and placing deposits
and can be purchased up to two years in advance and in as little as 24
hours before the event in most states. Besides, peace of mind for the big
day is priceless. ••
• Ruined photos. If the photographer’s film or data storage is defective or negatives are lost or damaged, a good insurance policy ensures the * Disclaimer: The material in this article is for informational purposes only.
cost to re-take photos is covered.
All statements herein are subject to the provisions, exclusions and conditions
• Call to duty. If either one of the engaged couple is unexpectedly
of the applicable policy. For an actual description of all coverage, terms, and
called to active duty or has his or her military service leave revoked, conditions, refer to the insurance policy in question. Coverage is subject to the
individual insured meeting a company’s underwriting qualifications and to
forcing your client to postpone the event, insurance can provide state availability.
reimbursement for non-recoverable expenses.
• Damaged gifts. Your clients can get repair or replacement costs if their wedding gifts are damaged.
• Sudden illness. If the wedding needs to be postponed because sudden illness prevents one of the engaged couple or their immediate family from attending, they can receive reimbursement for non-
recoverable expenses.
24
Meagan Phillips is a distinguished graduate of
the Association of Bridal Consultant’s Professional Development Program and has been
managing the Wedding Protector Plan for more
than three years. When Meagan isn’t protecting
weddings, she’s planning and designing them
through her business, Southern Glam Weddings
& Events, Tampa, Fla.
CAT
c
at eERING
ring
Midwest
Foodservice Expo a Source for Event Ideas
By David Caruso, Dynamic Events by David Caruso, Milwaukee, Wis., for the National Association for Catering and Events
photos by front room photography
The Midwest Foodservice Expo, held
annually in March, is the largest regional
foodservice event. It showcases thousands of
food and beverage professionals displaying
innovative products and “oldies, but goodies.”
This year, I visited the show to pick out things
that easily can be incorporated into weddings
and events. Which products and ideas caught
my eye and taste buds?
Miniature Cocktails
Provided by Great Lakes Distillery (www.
GreatLakesDistillery.com), mini cocktails are
appearing on more bars than ever before.
With this trend, you can create a one-of-a-kind
drink for the bride and groom to show off their
personalities and style. The size of the drink
advocates for sipping and enjoying the flavors
rather than over consuming. From champagne
to gin, the recipe options are endless but each
should be finished off with a stylish garnish
and a creative name.
Espresso bars
The plain ‘ol cup of joe served at most receptions is “out” and espresso drinks prepared
to order by a trained barista is “in!” Espresso
bars, like those provided at the Expo by
Farmer Brothers (www.FarmerBros.com),
create conversations and a buzz about your
event. Of course, there’s nothing better than
a double espresso to help a guest sober up
before sending them on their way at the end
of the night.
Popcorn
One of the hottest snack foods is gourmet
popcorn, like that of Buddy Squirrel (www.BuddySquirrel.com). It will be showing up at events
more and more frequently. The classic flavors
like caramel, cheddar, and savory buttered
remain popular, but it’s the more unusual ones
like jalapeno, cinnamon, buffalo and bleu cheese,
s’mores, and salted caramel that are popping up
on food stations and in party favor bags.
Reusable bamboo dinnerware
Being eco-friendly isn’t a fad and now couples
can reduce their carbon footprint during meal
service thanks to dinnerware like that from
Bamboo Studio (www.EcoBambooware.com)!
The sheaths of a bamboo plant are cleaned,
boiled, laminated to the desired thickness,
and pressed into shape—creating a disposable
dinnerware that is elegant, strong, and 100
percent biodegradable. Caterers are using these
products increasingly, and guests are shocked
when they find out that they’re disposable.
Handcrafted beers
Craft beer, like those by New Glarus Brewing Co.
(www.NewGlarusBrewing.com), remain popular—especially with grooms! This trend features
local brews, with quirky flavors and personalities, made in small batches. Craft brewers often
blend the usual ingredients with interesting new
twists. Their experimental approach leads to
distinct flavors and unique brews which make
them perfect for a tasting station at a wedding.
Bacon, bacon, and more bacon
People’s love affair with this greasy, crispy, and
deliciously naughty food, like that provided by
Nueske’s (www.NueskeMeats.com), is stronger
than ever! This ingredient is used in everything
from cocktails to desserts and is a definite crowd
pleaser. A related trend is having breakfast for
dinner, which is another reason bacon is popular
on wedding menus. Instead of burger sliders as
a late night-snack, think about a short stack of
pancakes with a side of maple-glazed bacon.
We scream for ice cream!
It’s no doubt that we’ll always be kids at heart
and this dessert trend proves it! Companies
like Cedar Crest Ice Cream (www.CedarCrest
Icecream.com) are concocting cool and complex
flavors that are adored by ice cream fans
nationwide. At weddings, it can be featured
as a pairing with dessert or at a fun dessert
bar. Sandwich a uniquely crafted flavor like
Jumping Jersey Cow between two chocolate
chip cookies and everyone “will be screaming
for ice cream!”
Each year, more food trends pop up in the
culinary world—for better or worse. People
talk a lot about healthy, natural, local, organic,
gluten-free, and dairy-free, but no matter how
healthy, we still love our comfort food. That was
evident at the Midwest Foodservice Expo. So
have fun using these ideas as part of wedding
menus and delight in how they enhance the
guest experience! ••
25
i n d u s t ry b e s t p r ac t i c e s
How do you establish boundaries with your brides?
“Be brave and use your voice. I know this
sounds like something we tell our kids, but
as grown-ups, we need to be reminded
of it…I have, in my contract, a way out for
‘bad behavior,’ and I've used it a couple of
times. I've had calm conversations with
clients and even charged an additional fee
[for them] to keep me from canceling my
contract. It works every time.”
“After a record-setting 26 emails a day from
one bride, I put limitations in my contract.
I will respond once a day for my custom
clients. Lower-level brides get a once-aweek conversation, unless it is the week of
the wedding; then, they can all call/text/
email whenever.”
- Lynn H. Wheatley, Lasting Impressions of
Tulsa, LLC, Tulsa, Okla.
JoAnn Moore, CWC, MBC™, CGWP, CSS,
Mountains and Meadows, LLC, Vail, Colo.
“Teach them how to work with you. I’ve
created a FAQ sheet that I send out with
“Everyone needs to know how to best
my planning information. It outlines my
contact you and when you are available.
office hours, cell phone accessibility, and
Let brides, grooms, and parents know the
typical response times. Since doing this a
best way to reach you. Also, let them know few years ago, I’ve had minimal issues with
when you will be on vacation, days of the boundaries.”
- Wendy Dahl, PBC™, Chic Productions,
week you do not take appointments, and
Huntington Beach, Calif.
your policy on evening phone calls. With
out-of-town brides, it is also smart to let
“We clarify our boundaries with potential
them know during what holidays would be brides at the first phone call. If there are
problematic to schedule appointments.”
red flags, we don’t take them as clients.
- Gloria R. Boyden, MBC™, Specializing in
Beautiful Weddings, Carmel, Ind.
We outline our expectations, deliverables,
and boundaries in writing when we go to
“When working with new clients, I make a contract. Whenever we find ourselves in a
point of not answering their phone calls, or situation where a client is not remembering
responding to emails after normal business their manners, I tell them gently but firmly
hours. I want my clients to be delighted
that we do not do business that way. My
that I'm there for them at midnight the
motto with brides: Be clear, consistent, and
week of their wedding, but I don't want
courteous from concept to completion!”
them to expect an immediate response
Merryl Brown, CWEP, Merryl Brown
Events, Santa Barbara, Calif.
during my family time, eight months out.
Weddings are very time-consuming. If you
“We stay away from text messaging with
give your career the chance, it will take
couples
and will stop answering emails past
over your life.”
- Ariel Yve, MBC™, Ariel Yve Design, LLC, Ojai, a certain time unless it's really important or
Calif.
right around their wedding day.”
-Lindsay Jani, Simply Sunshine Events, LLC,
Randolph and Hoboken, N.J.
“Unless the bride’s event is in production,
I stick to my office-hour schedule. I let
all potential clients know from our first
appointment that I have a 24-hour email
and voicemail turnaround…The clients who
don’t agree, I typically don’t want as
a client.”
- Polly A. Klein, Polly’s Petals &
Particulars, Grayslake, Ill.
“My office hours are stated on my Facebook page, voicemail, and in the welcome
magazine we give new brides. We also
verbally tell them the days we’re closed
when they hire us. If a bride calls or texts
after hours, I deal with it first thing in the
morning but not during my personal time,
unless it’s a true emergency. On my day off,
I use the do not disturb feature on my cell
phone, which only allows certain contacts
to be connected. All other calls go directly
to voicemail.”
- Holly D. Lynch, PBC™, The Season Events,
Rome, Ga.
“Having a professional office space outside
of my home helps because it establishes
a separation of my business hours from
my personal hours, and gives clients the
mindset that I am not there 24/7.”
- Christine Terezakis, MBC™, Dreamday
Weddings & Events, Palm City, Fla.
“I've always found it's easiest to establish
boundaries early on and right in my client’s
contract. I am clear on our policies for
vacation time, weekend availability, and
office hours. The clearer you are upfront
before they are clients, the less likely they
will be to overstep boundaries.”
- Crystal Adair-Benning, Once-in-aLifetime Awesomeness, Canada, Scotland,
and Australia
“In the era of social media, we have a
policy to not become ‘friends’ with our
clients on Facebook (at least not until after
their wedding). A lot of clients want to do
this, but we feel it crosses the line between
professional relationship and personal relationship. They can like our business page
but not our personal pages. If they request
to become friends after their event, we
consider it at that point.”
- Jenny Garringer, PBC™, Pink with
Envy Event Planning Services,
Beavercreek, Ohio
“1. Set up a professional voicemail for your
personal phone if your brides have to call
your personal phone. Return all calls during
business hours except in an emergency
situation. 2. Separate your personal life
from your professional life if you run a
home-based business. Create a separate
entrance, if possible, into your office to
avoid brides walking through your home
to enter your office. 3. Avoid giving your
home address to brides if you do not run a
home-based office.”
- Fiyin Awe, Able Planners, Indiana
26
courtesy of BBJ Linen
Knowing Trends and Your Clients
is Key to Linen Selection
By Keisha Scott, PBC™, K. Scott Weddings, Graham, N.C.
© l. photographie
Radiant Orchid
The Pantone color of the year,
Radiant Orchid has really
taken off, with more brides
requesting this purple hue for
the upcoming year. Pairing it
with fuchsia, lavender, blue,
and silver tones creates a
romantic atmosphere. You
can also incorporate Radiant
Orchid into your client’s
napkins, centerpieces, or
menu cards to help achieve
your client’s look.
Pastel Linens
Soft pastel hues can create
a traditional and classic
look. Colors such as blush
pink, peach, gold, and
neutral hues are a great
way to create a vintage and
timeless look. With pastel
colors, it is easy to mix and
match your linens to create
a stylish look.
Geometric Linens
To invoke a mood that is
more playful and modern,
brides are selecting
pops of color, as well as
multiple shapes on their
linens to add a bold look
for their reception space.
Linens such as Chevron,
Zigzag, or Checkered are
great for spring and summer weddings and pair
well with a rustic-chic
wedding.
Wedding Planner Tip: Softer,
sheer overlays placed over
pastel linens create another
dimension of style. Create
Wedding Planner Tip:
an inspiration board or linen
Although multiple shades of
purple can be paired together, design meeting to help clients
be careful not to add too much visualize this idea.
of one color to the venue
space—especially with lighting.
Purple lighting against purple
linens can saturate the event
space and create a mood of
depression. Guests will notice
that right away, so proceed
with caution.
Wedding Planner Tip: A
great way to help clients
add this into their reception
décor is to use the geometric
linen as a runner on long or
round tables. Another option
is to use a runner as a cap for
a cocktail table.
Metallic Linens
Since the movie, The Great Gatsby appeared last year,
there has been a “return to glam” as the wedding industry
refers to it. Platinum, gold, sequins, and silver linens
that shimmer and sparkle really add a special look to any
space. These specialty linens make a bold statement.
Wedding Planner Tip: Advise clients that these specialty linens
look best on selected tables (escort table, cake table, or even the
sweetheart table). Guests will remember those little touches. In
this case, less is more.
© Averyhouse
Beautiful colors, textures, and patterns in wedding linens are a great way to
enhance any event or wedding decor. Each year, there are new fabrics and looks that
are presented on the fashion runway, that end up inspiring and influencing the wedding industry. With hundreds of linen options from which to choose, your clients will
turn to your professional expertise to assist them in selecting the best options for their
wedding day. As a wedding planner, it is vital to educate yourself on the latest trends,
so that you, in turn, can assist your clients with pulling off a seamless and cohesive
look to their wedding details. It is also important that you are familiar with linen sizes,
as well as the names of the linens, so that you are able to call them to mind should any
questions arise. So, what’s trending when it comes to linens?
Texture Linens
Similar to the metallic linens, textured linens add depth to
the event space. Petals, rosettes, and lace are considered
textured linens. These are available in overlays as well as
full linens and can really stand out in wedding photos.
Wedding Planner Tip: Educate your clients that specialty linens
are something not to leave as an afterthought. The sooner the
client sees options and makes selections, the better the design
process for you as a planner.
Exploring the latest trends in wedding linens helps
brides understand what their options are, depending on
their style and personality. So, when is the best time to
begin selecting linens? The answer? As soon as you can.
Once you assist in selecting a venue, start creating ideas
with sample swatches, mood boards, or as stated earlier,
a design mockup just to begin the dialogue. Go over what
your clients’ likes and dislikes are, what mood or feeling
they would like to evoke during their wedding, and most
importantly, their overall linen budget. This will assist
you in selecting the best wedding linens to fit their
budget and that will also reflect their style. ••
27
ABC Member Planner and Officiant:
Pamela DuVal, MBC™, Promised Hearts Inc.,
[email protected],
[email protected].
Photographer: Open Aperture Photography.
Non-member businesses involved: Avalon
Event Floral, Mrs. Vingerber’s Sweets, DreamMaker
Wedding Estates.
The Couple: Erin and Logan were married at The
Watson House in Emerald Isle, N.C. The bride is
Jewish and the groom is Christian, so we included
elements of both faith traditions in the ceremony:
the sand ceremony, the kiddush cup and blessing
of the wine, breaking of the glass, and a memorial candle. Both the bride and groom made it a
point for the day to include elements that were
important to the other.
Wedding date: May 18, 2013.
Inspiration: The couple wanted an elegant event
with touches of southern charm. The wedding was
a blend of different religions and customs and also
highlighted their love of horses.
Color palette: Purple and yellow.
n o rt h c a ro l i n a
Real Wedding
Budget: $30,000.
Guest count: 110.
Most unique design element: The Watson
House features European charm and Southern
hospitality. It is located on a beautifully landscaped
estate with resident horses frolicking in the
background as well as grand water views. This was
the perfect venue for a lovely tented event. There
was even dancing under the stars on a Tuscan-style
paver patio with twinkling lights and a gorgeous
chandelier and outdoor fireplace.
Biggest challenge: Everyone was surprised to
find the caterer left almost immediately after serving the meal. My team and the venue staff were left
to bus tables, clean up, pack leftover food, and find
plates for the cake. We pitched in and took care of
it. Best of all, no one noticed anything was amiss
and everything turned out beautifully.
Hindsight: I should have pushed a bit harder to
get the names and contact numbers of all vendors
involved. And next time, I will double check the
caterer’s departure time. ••
29
Their Love.
Center Stage.
This isn’t just any day. This is their day. Surround it with the unique style and
elegance of 9 ultra chic wedding collections designed exclusively for the All
Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels in Cancun, Riviera Maya, Vallarta and Punta Cana by
celebrity event designer Colin Cowie.
Colin Cowie
Inspired by the passions of paradise, each oceanfront collection, including our
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crystal blue waters and breathtaking tropical views.
After their vows, they can stay, and experience 3 tantalizing Honeymoon Packages
specially crafted by Colin Cowie to celebrate both luxury and love.
Book now and have them enjoy up to $1,800 LIMITLESS RESORT CREDIT** for
select Colin Cowie Wedding Collections, spa treatments, tours and much more.
For more information, please email [email protected],
visit www.hrhweddings.com or call 855-762-5255
* Restrictions apply. **$1,800 Limitless Resort Credit is based on a 7-8 night consecutive stay per
room. 20% service fee applies to all services in the Limitless Resort Credit Promotion. Other
restrictions may apply. Booking and travel window applies.
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400 Main Street
La Crosse, WI 54601
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
While our wedding and social invitations get a lot of attention, our
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ABCCC54

Wedding Planner Magazine 05062014

Transcription

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