Wedding Planner Magazine

Transcription

Wedding Planner Magazine
A publication inspired by the
Association of Bridal Consultants
March/April 2012 Volume 2 Issue 1
the publication for wedding planners, professionals, and designers
Anniversary
1 st
Issue
Emerging Color Trends 8
WPM Advisory Board 13
Nigerian Weddings 15
Doing Business in the Cloud 19
Dramatic Event Lighting 23
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8
Features
Color Trends 2012: The Color Evolution…………… 8
Want to stay ahead of the game? Learn to think
like the color pros. Find out what it takes to
predict evolving color trends. See the latest “it”
colors and combinations. And discover why the
right color has an impact on your bottom line.
Color Inspiration Palette—
Pewter and Old-World Elegance………………………… 10
Color Inspiration Palette—
Vintage Cashmere… ………………………………………………… 11
Color Inspiration Palette—
Tango with Tangerine……………………………………………… 12
Meet Our Advisory Board Members………………… 13
Ranging from Master Bridal Consultants™ to
novices, meet the members of Wedding Planner
Magazine’s inaugural advisory board.
PW Photography (Design by Mcbride events)
Photo courtesy of Omu Obilor
Paul Versluis Photography
Table of Contents
15
Departments
International: When Families Unite—The
Customs and Culture of Nigerian Weddings…… 15
Though Western influence is being felt in the
Nigerian wedding market, cultural traditions
hold strong in this African country, with colorful, lively weddings that celebrate the uniting
of two families.
Real Wedding—Georgia…………………………………………25
Rustic and modern was the theme for this arts
center wedding designed and planned by We
Tie the Knot’s Callie Garrett.
Real Wedding—New Jersey… ………………………………27
What do you get when two singers wed? A sassy,
contemporary wedding, and the bride serenading the groom with one of the songs from her
role as “Effie” in the national tour of Dream Girls
in this wedding by member planner Sarah-Jane
Bennett, All Events Perfect.
23
Columns
Business Basics: Take Your Business to
the Cloud… ……………………………………………………………… 19
Certified Public Accountant Edward Jaekel
helps you navigate the cloud by exploring
options to help you manage your business
on the Internet.
Master Bridal Consultant™ Profile:
Camelú Millán Vargas, MBC™………………………………… 21
ABC Member Insight—Meghan Ely, OFD
Consulting……………………………………………………………………23
Add a little drama to your life with event
lighting.
In Every Issue
ABC President’s Letter… ………………………………………… 7
Editor’s/Publisher’s Letter… ………………………………… 7
ABC Meetings & News…………………………………………… 16
Who You’ll Meet In This Issue……………………………… 17
Advertisers Index………………………………………………………30
ABC Member Best Practices…………………………………29
Inspiration—Where Do You Find It?
Wedding Planner Magazine
5
letter
We’re celebrating our first anniversary!
Editor Beth Erickson
Creative Director Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
Art Designer Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
Writers Meghan Ely
Beth Erickson
Edward Jaekel, CPA
Omu Obilor
Proofreader Kim Seidel
Photographers Michael and Anna Costa Photography
Dawn V Gilmore Fine Art Photography
Jeffrey Studio
Mueller Photography
Olivier Kpognon Photography
Nule Nicholson Photography
Christy Parry Photography
PW Photography
Amy Shepherd Photography
Paul Versluis Photography
Stephanie Yonce Photography
Ahmet Ze Photography
Wedding Planner Magazine, a publication 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 2012 Wedding Planner Magazine LLC. All rights
reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced
without written permission from the publishers.
How will we ever top our first year? With the help of our new Advisory Board. Turn to
page 13 to meet our inaugural board members. This eight-member team of ABC members
has committed to moving us forward by sharing their expertise and insight. Ranging from
masters to novice, they will guide us as we grow readership and make Wedding Planner
Magazine the most indispensible professional toolbox for wedding industry professionals.
Each member will serve no more than two consecutive one-year terms.
Also in this first anniversary issue is our annual Color Trends feature. This year, we
talked to industry experts from Pantone, the Color Association of the United States,
and the Color Marketing Group to get their insight on how color trends are predicted so
you can stay ahead of the game. You’ll also see the latest trending colors and experience
several palettes through our custom color photography shoots created by members
Tammy Cunningham, PBC™; Ariel Yve, MBC™; and Diane Boone.
We’re even unveiling a new feature column, Business Basics. Certified Public Accountant Ed Jaekel shares his insight on the options you have to streamline your business
through the “cloud.” ABC member Meghan Ely shares her take on dramatic lighting
effects. And, you’ll read about Nigerian weddings, how members find inspiration, our
profile on Camelú Millán Vargas, MBC™, and more.
The return of spring also means conference registration has begun. The first-ever
Asia Pacific Wedding Professionals Conference will be August 22-24 in Singapore.
Find out more at www.apwpc.com. Business of Brides 2012: Diamonds & Denim is
Nov. 11-13 at the Grand Hyatt in Denver. Register at www.BusinessofBrides.com or
www.BridalAssn.com. Register by April 15 and save $90.
© Olivier Kpognon Photography
Wedding Planner Magazine does not necessarily endorse the
claims or contents of advertising or editorial material. Printed
in the U.S.A.
For advertising information: 608.796-2257 or email
[email protected]
by the
A publication inspired
Consultants
Association of Bridal 2 Issue 1
Volume
March/April 2012
the publication for
wedding planners,
designers
professionals, and
Anniv1ersary
© muellerphotography.net
Publishers Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
David Wood
© muellerphotography.net
Volume 2 Issue 1
March/April 2012
This issue of Wedding Planner Magazine officially marks the beginning of our second year
in print. In one short year, we’ve taken the professionalism of the wedding industry
to new levels. Within these pages, we bring you smart, informative ideas to grow your
business, the latest trends and inspiration, as well as tips and Real Weddings from
Association of Bridal Consultant (ABC) members. Since our first issue, we have featured
hundreds of ABC members including Alan Berg, Mary Dann, Barbara Wallace, Sharon
Naylor, and many more. Plus we’ve featured other industry professionals like the
Pantone Color Institute’s Leatrice Eisemann, Jerry Edwards of Chef’s Expressions, The
Wedding Report’s Shane McMurray, and Engaging Concept’s Renee Grinnals.
Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™
Publisher/Creative Director
[email protected]
Beth Erickson
Editor
[email protected]
Design by Ariel Yve, MBC™
Photography by Michael and
Anna Costa Photography
st
Issue
8
Emerging Color Trends
13
WPM Advisory Board
gs 15
Nigerian Weddin
the Cloud 19
Doing Business in
g 23
Dramatic Event Lightin
Wedding Planner Magazine 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 at La Crosse, WI and
pending additional entry at Eau Claire, WI. Postmaster
send changes to Wedding Planner Magazine, 400 Main
Street, La Crosse, WI 54601.
David M. Wood, Publisher
President, Association of
Bridal Consultants
www.weddingplannermag.com
Twitter: @wedplanmag
Next issue: Tented Weddings, Business of Brides, Indian Wedding
Customs, MBC™ Profile of Stephen Stawicki, and more.
Wedding Planner Magazine
7
feature
The Color Evolution
Color Trends 2012
Stephanie Yonce Photography (Design by Honeydew Events)
Nule nichol son photography (design by lynda barness)
By Beth Erickson
What do the 2012 Olympics, The King’s Speech, and the royal
wedding have in common? Each is part of the recent cultural influences
that continue to shape color trends.
According to Leslie Harrington, executive director of the Color Association
of the United States (CAUS), emerging color palettes are about evolution
not revolution. Color shifts from year to year are gradual since dramatic
shifts would not be affordable for people to upkeep and stay trendy.
So much time and research goes into selecting emerging color trends
that wedding industry professionals can learn a lot from the pros.
“We look at the consumer, political, and economic trends that influence behavior,” says Harrington. “We interpret things that influence
consumer desire and identify what we think are important trends and
the resulting emerging colors.” The CAUS forecasts color trends for
8
Wedding Planner Magazine
manufacturing and retail 24 months ahead since it takes that long for
products to go from concept to market.
The fashion and cosmetics industries are also influential, says George
Iannuzzi, a chair holder and executive committee member for Color
Marketing Group (CMG) and market development manager at EMD
Chemicals. “Fashion trends are forecast every six months and 18
months into the future. It rapidly moves from season to season and
eventually impacts automotive, consumer goods, and interior palettes.”
From Neutrals to Color Bursts
Groups like CAUS, CMG, and Pantone spend all day, every day, following
international events, socioeconomic factors, as well as cultural, arts, and
design developments before releasing their color trends. The 2012/13
Color Report from CAUS explores the aging process with colors that are
feature
How important is color to the bottom line? Consider these powerful facts from various marketing studies:
Source: Excerpted from “The Profit of Color,” by the Color Marketing Group, www.colormarketing.org, Alexandria, Va.
Color increases
brand recognition
by up to
80 %
Color improves
readership as
much as
40 %
found in nature and range from subdued to
bright. Its seven color stories include purples,
yellows, blues, greens, red/oranges, and
neutrals. “We’re seeing where we’re going to find
a lot more color. Everyone’s hopeful as we move
out of the recession period, which will bring a
more colorful palette,” says Harrington.
Care to Tango?
The return of bright colors was the focus as
Pantone unveiled its Color of the Year—Tangerine Tango. Designers like Tommy Hilfiger,
Nanette Lepore, Elie Tahari, and Adrienne
Vittadini, are already incorporating the color
into their spring collections. “Tangerine Tango
provides the energy boost we need to recharge
and move forward,” says Leatrice Eiseman, color
expert and executive director of the Pantone
Color Insititute. She sees it pairing well with
unexpected color combinations—an elegant
wine color, like Syrah or Rhubarb Red; a greenish
blue like Vallarta; or a hot pink like Cabaret for
a retro look. “Of course, it’s always great with
warm taupey tans like Tiger’s Eye, and a special
favorite of mine is a deep, yellow green called
Winter Moss. And there is the summertime
staple of White Alyssum,” she adds. Pantone also
released nine home interior color palettes. “The
continuing challenge and goal will be in keeping
the consumer visually engaged by blending the
playful with the practical. To reach that destination, color is the compass,” says Eiseman.
Color
accelerates
learning from
Color increases
comprehension by
55 to 78 %
73 %
International Summit in September 2011. “Our
color received the highest form of validation this
past holiday season by being worn in President
Obama’s family portrait,” says Ianuzzi. “With
black, it is warm and darkly evocative, offering
richness and depth, even if it takes us to the
dark side of the imagination with vampires
and the cosmic black hole. When paired with
white, Boys-N-Berry plays well with ermine furs
of royalty, stark white sand beaches, and the
brightness of lights...Imagine the sophistication
that comes with a pearl grey or white pairing.
Imagine the fun that comes to mind when it is
combined with a clear lime green.”
Compared to similar
ads in black and white,
color ads are
read more by
42 %
Up to
85 %
of why people
buy is because
of color
Lighting plays up the hues as well. “Recently,
we’ve seen long, sheer, soft pastel fabrics hanging from the ceiling and beautifully accented
with OLED lights that were gently blown by
large fans. This created a surreal atmosphere
where attendees interacted with them by either
touching or wrapping themselves in them and
spinning,” say Ianuzzi.
The bolder colors will translate just fine for
potential bridesmaid fashion, and décor, but
bridal dresses are an altogether different matter
as they tend toward neutrals, says Laura Mease,
ABC™, MWV™, Laura’s Couture Collection of
Shawnee Mission, Kan. Mease sees mostly
Though Pantone and CMG have different “it” col- muted undertones in bridal attire. “The ones
ors, they are complementary. In January, Vogue I’m seeing are all one color in the fabric under
Magazine reported Salvatore Ferragamo, used a white or ivory lace—usually blush or taupe.”
version of Boys-N-Berry paired with a version of
No matter your palette, it’s important to
Tangerine Tango in a casual print dress.
realize that the chosen colors have a significant
impact. “Color affects how the guests feel,” says
Use Trending Colors to Make
Maria A. Lugo, PBC™, a Puerto Rico wedding
a Statement
planner. “Seeing the effect on them is much
Colors can be used to evoke emotions and enhance mood through décor via floral, tabletops, different if they’re seeing something other than
linens, and fashion. “There, the brides are willing the traditional or the common.”
to have color really pop. Yet, they don’t want
Barness agrees, “A wedding’s ambiance is
the room to look like they are going to a prom,
so color is added in a sophisticated manner and enhanced by the choices of colors in clothing,
flowers, lighting, and design. This, along with
carried throughout the event. For example, a
the sounds, scents, and happiness for the
centerpiece may be earthy, mossy, and floral
with pops of fuschia. Natural elements, like birch couple helps define the celebratory nature
of the event. It has been said that color is a
branches, may be a soft background. And the
flowers may be dimensional with different tones language, and it certainly speaks in the setting
Boys-n-Berry is CMG’s “Next” Color
of a base color,” says Lynda Barness, ABC™, I Do of a wedding.” ••
The international, not-for-profit CMG proclaimed Boys-N-Berry the “Next” color during its Wedding Consulting of Philadelphia.
Boys-N-Berry + pewter + black
Tangerine + Moss
Tangerine + Boys-N-Berry
Tangerine + Hot Pink
Tangerine + Taupe
Resources
The Color Association of the United States, www.colorassociation.com—
providing forecasting, education, and advising to color professionals.
Color Marketing Group, www.colormarketing.org—an international, not-forprofit association for color design professionals.
Pantone, www.pantone.com—a worldwide organization dedicated to providing
consulting, inspiration, and products to multiple industries.
Design Boom, www.designboom.com—an e-zine from Europe about art, architecture, fashion, photography, and graphics.
Mix Magazine, http://globalcolor.co.uk/mix-magazine.php—a color, design, and
trend magazine by Global Color Research™.
Merck Chemicals Color Forecast, www.merck-chemicals.com—a color
forecast produced for Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter.
Behr’s Interior Paint Forecast, www.newsroom.behr.com—an annual paint
forecast featuring new colors and design themes.
Co.Design, www.fastcodesign.com—a site about innovative designs in business.
Produced by Fast Company magazine.
Wedding Planner Magazine
9
in s piration
Pewter andOld-World Elegance
ABC member planner: Tammy Cunningham,
PBC™, Sincerely Yours Events, Inc., Sayville, N.Y.
Photography: Jeffrey Studio
floral: Pedestals Floral Decorators
Rentals: American Event Company
Linens: Wildflower Linen
Venue: deSeversky Mansion
Inspiration: The “feel” of a color inspired this table design. Pewter is always associated with
gorgeous, Old-World elegance. Combined with any other color, it instantly makes the most modern
details seem classic and vintage. Delicate Chantilly lace, beautiful satin ribbon, and glistening
crystals photographed against the backdrop of a historic mansion are just some of the luxuries that
combined to evoke this classic, elegant feel.
10
Wedding Planner Magazine
in s piration
Vintage Cashmere
ABC member planner: Ariel Yve, MBC™, Ariel Yve
Design, LLC, Ojai, Calif.
ABC Vendor Member—rentals:
Classic Party Rentals
Photography: Michael and Anna Costa
Photographers
floral: Ariel Yve Design, LLC
Linens: La Tavola Fine Linen
Stationery: Zenadia Design
Venue: Villa Sevillano
Inspiration: Because the norm is now to have a “color palette,” I went against the grain with a
more traditional, understated color scheme of vintage cashmere with touches of butter and peach.
Soft and creamy cashmere conjures up thoughts of luxury as does the setting—a magnificent
multi-million-dollar estate in the Santa Barbara foothills, Villa Sevillano. To bring this fancy
tablescape back down to earth, I positioned an 8' oblong table beneath a grove of mature olive trees
in the estate’s circular driveway. My goal was to create a look that was not only romantic, but also
chicly “unbuttoned.” This perfectly imperfect table conjures up a spur-of-the-moment celebration
using heirloom linens, mother-of-pearl silverware, fine china, and an antique silver candelabra to
cast a warm glow over guests as they dine into the evening celebrating life, prosperity, and beauty.
Wedding Planner Magazine
11
in s piration
TangowithTangerine
ABC member planner : Diane Boone, Arcadian Events & Design, Overland Park, Kan.
Photography: Paul Versluis Photography
Stationery: Studio Dan Meiner
furniture: Studio Dan Meiner
floral: Studio Dan Meiner
Rentals: All Seasons Rental
Linens: Connie Duglin Linen Rental
Inspiration: Our goal was to show a sophisticated use of a powerful color. This look has an urbanforest feel. The backdrop and tabletop are wood recycled post-Katrina from New Orleans. Lucite
columns were used for the base to add a contemporary feel. Brown leather benches with a tangerine
pop of color are pulled in with the pillows. The table-top pieces were an eclectic mix—tangerine
opalescent wine glasses with square glassware for the signature cocktail of blood orange juice, orange
vodka, and kumquats. Chargers are starburst, taupe glass topped with an amber swirl. The square
dinner plates are accented by tangerine duponi silk napkins. The floral is a hedge design in reflective
vases with tinted plumosa, tulips, roses, and day lilies. Mercury glass votives complete the look. To
accent, pale tangerine cupcakes with edible glitter and pearls are served with Italian sparkling wine.
feature
Meet Our Advisory Board Members
International
Barbara Diez
Barbara Diez Event Planners
Argentina, www.barbaradiez.com
[email protected]
54.11.4804.0220/3186
Favorite quote: Menos es mas (less is
more). Why the wedding industry: I
organized everything for my own wedding
12 years ago, when there were no wedding
planners in Argentina. I became the first
wedding planner here. Little known
fact: Intense mother. Intense wife. Intense
professional. Reading now: Steve Jobs’
biography. Can’t live without: Daughters Manuela, 15, and Paloma, 10. Why she
said “yes” to the board: I got to know
Nancy Flottmeyer!
Master Wedding Vendor™
Edward L. Griffin
The Wedding DJs/Hardcastle
Entertainment, Inc., Renton, Wash.
www.TheWeddingDJs.com
[email protected]
425.255.7010
Favorite quote: “You become what
you think about most,” Earl Nightingale. On
his career: In 1990, I was working for a
DJ company. It became obvious that they
could send me out to nearly any event—
which usually caused me to get booked
last. So, I started my own company. What
he’s reading: RFPs—and the 150 emails
I get every day. Can’t live without:
My wife. Greatest hope for Wedding
Planner Magazine: That it helps people
recognize the need for a good wedding
planner and vendor and promotes the ABC
as the resource for those people.
Master Bridal Consultant™
Mark Kingsdorf
The Queen of Hearts Wedding
Consultants, Philadelphia
www.QOHweddings.com
[email protected]
267.251.7786
Got his start: In 1999, I’d left my restau-
rant and catering business and was asked
by a friend to help a client who was having
issues with a wedding caterer. Little
known fact: I’m a pizza and street food
junky. Reading now: Creating Magic—10
Common Sense Leadership Strategies From
a Life at Disney by Lee Cockerell. 2012
wedding prediction: Lush, vintage,
white weddings. Why he’s serving
on the Board: I always thought there
needed to be something bigger and better
for wedding planners. And this is it!
Master Bridal Consultant™
Frank Andonoplas
Frank Event Design, Chicago
www.frankeventdesign.com
[email protected]
773.275.6804
Favorite quote: “Don’t dream it, be it.”
Why the wedding industry: It is what
I was born to do. Little known fact:
I hate BBQ. Reading now: Out of Oz:
The Final Volume in the Wicked Years by
Gregory Maguire. Can’t live without:
So many things, but my husband of 23
years tops the list. Why he’s serving on
the board: I love to give back.
Accredited Bridal Consultant™
Tamara Lin Waterman
2011 Miss Dorothy Heart Award Recipient
Special Moments, Pinellas Park, Fla.
www.eventsbyspecialmoments.com
[email protected]
727.343.0800
Favorite quote: “Life is not measured
by the number of breaths we take but by
the moments that take our breath away.”
Why the wedding industry: In 2004,
I wanted to escape corporate America and
take on a new challenge. I joined the ABC,
met Elise Enloe, MBC™. The rest is history!
Little known fact: I’ve never seen
snow. Greatest hope for Wedding
Planner Magazine: That it continues
growing into the most valued and talked
about resource for every wedding professional worldwide.
Vendor
Novice
Professional Bridal Consultant™
www.GodfatherFilms.com
[email protected]
800.495.5530
www.eventsbyshelly.com
[email protected]
715.256.9967
www.somethingbluedc.com
[email protected]
877.672.BLUE (2583)
John Goolsby, MEI, CPV, MPV,
Godfather Films, Riverside, Calif.
Thought to ponder: Our most prized
possessions are the memories of our life’s
experiences—the people we’ve loved, the
trips we’ve taken, and our celebrations. The
purpose of a wedding film is time travel.
Can’t live without: Happy clients.
Why the wedding industry: I was a
corporate film producer when I filmed my
first wedding in 1986. The clients hugged
and sincerely thanked me, which was so
much better than just a check. Vision for
Wedding Planner Magazine: That it
serve as the vehicle that brings knowledge,
credibility, and earning power to thousands
of bridal consultants worldwide.
Shelly Stone,
Signature Events by Shelly, Waupaca, Wis.
Favorite quote: “At first, dreams
seem impossible, then improbable, then
inevitable,” Christopher Reeve. Why the
wedding industry: I love weddings, designing, and helping people take their ideas
to the next level. What she’s reading:
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg
Larsson and The Hunger Games by Suzanne
Collins. Why she serves on the board:
I love new challenges and being as much a
part of this industry as possible!
LaToya Parnell
Something Blue Weddings, Washington D.C.
Why the wedding industry: Adding
weddings to my event-planning business
was the next challenge. Weddings involved
a longer planning process, greater attention
to detail and a great bit of creativity. Current reading: Wrecked by Carol Higgins
Clark. 2012 wedding prediction: Brides
will slowly move toward wearing colored
wedding gowns. Cannot live without:
Snack foods or my iPhone. Why she
serves on the board: It’s a wonderful opportunity to work with other distinguished
ABC members on an industry periodical. Wedding Planner Magazine
13
I nternational
When Families Unite
The Customs and Culture
of Nigerian Weddings
By Omu Obilor, Rubans Rouge, Ikoyi Lagos, Nigeria photos courtesy of omu obilor
Meaningful, vivid, and vibrant, filled with drumbeats and dance,
Nigerian weddings are unforgettable experiences.
From civil to traditional to religious
Although certain customs vary region-to-region and contemporary influences have occurred, these weddings are filled with ancient traditions that
are adhered to and respected. The three types of Nigerian weddings today
are civil, traditional, and religious. The civil marriage typically takes place
at a registry. A traditional ceremony is held in the village setting with
friends and community attending. In the religious ceremony, the bride
and the groom go to the church or mosque and exchange vows according
to the tradition of their chosen religion. Nigerians can participate in one
of these forms or all, but traditional and religious are most popular.
Western influence brings contemporary changes
The Nigerian customary wedding has some similarities with the western
ceremony. In Nigerian weddings, however, these are accompanied with a
lot of pomp and pageantry, song and dance.
• The father gives the bride away in a Nigerian wedding.
• The mother of the bride plays a major role that day as well,
alongside her friends.
• Attention is paid to her and she has her special dance as the mother of the bride.
• The couple has their first dance together.
• The groom doesn’t see the bride the night before the wedding.
Nigerian weddings unite entire families
But what is truly special about Nigerian weddings is this: The wedding
goes beyond the couple. It is actually considered a union between the
families. How does this play out? It begins in the “asking” phase, when
the groom’s intentions become known. He doesn’t just walk up to the
bride’s parents to ask for her hand in marriage. He uses a middleman, or
go-between, who is known by both families. In some cases, only one side
of the family knows him, but the other family has to trust him enough
to pay attention to him.
Gifts for both families are also important and vary according to tribe.
The middleman leaves a list of gifts, including a dowry, or bride price,
with the bride’s father, and a date is set. By the wedding, this list is completed and all gifts bestowed. The bride price is a very important aspect
of the Nigerian wedding. The amount of money paid varies, depending
on the tribe. In some families a token of N20 (less then 50 cents) is
collected. The cost of the Nigerian wedding is not as high as people think
when they see the list of things they have to buy. One finds that most
times, these can be negotiated and you’ll end up not spending much. The
Nigerian marriage is legal and bound by customary law. In the event of
a divorce, although uncommon in Nigeria, the bride price is returned to
the groom’s parents. This is seen as a final dissolution of the union.
On the day of the wedding, the groom also bears gifts to the bride’s
friends and family. This intimate dance of respect between the families of
the bride and groom, acknowledges the importance of the families and the
community to the bride and groom’s own union as husband and wife. ••
Wedding Planner Magazine
15
ABC Annual Conference
Seminars
Business of Brides
Diamonds & Denim
Grand Hyatt, Denver
www.BusinessofBrides.com
www.BridalAssn.com
Early registration through April 15
For individual monthly state meetings, please contact
your state coordinators and the ABC website www.
BridalAssn.com.
Attend and earn two points for education and
professional development. For more information, or to
register, visit www.BridalAssn.com.
Sunday, March 4
Building & Remodeling Bridal Business
Embassy Suites Chicago-O’Hare
Rosemont, Ill.
www.abcehbrbchicago.eventbrite.com
Sunday, April 1
Taking it to the Top
Ameristar Casino-Resort-Spa
St. Charles/St. Louis, Mo.
www.abcTTTheartlands.eventbrite.com
Sunday, July 15
Building & Remodeling Bridal Business
Detroit
www.abchbrbdetroit.eventbrite.com
Workshops
Saturday, March 3
Not Just for Novices Workshop
West Palm Beach Marriott
West Palm Beach, Fla.
www.abcflnovicewestpalm.eventbrite.com
Sunday, May 20
Not Just for Novices Workshop
Orlando
www.abcflnoviceorlando.eventbrite.com
State Meetings
Sunday-Monday, March 18-19
North Carolina State Meeting
Sheraton Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, N.C.
Monday, April 2
Heartlands Meeting
Ameristar Casino-Resort-Spa
St. Charles/St. Louis, Mo.
www.abcTTTheartlands.eventbrite.com
Friday-Sunday, April 20-22
Ohio State Meeting
Marriott Key Center
Cleveland, Ohio
www.abcohio2012-esearch.eventbrite.com
Friday-Sunday, April 20-22
Wisconsin Regional Retreat
Madison, Wis.
www.abcwisconsinretreat.eventbrite.com
FAMinars
Thursday-Sunday, April 26-29
ABC FAMINAR with Rehearsal to Reception Rx
Yucatan & Campeche, Mexico
www.abcYucatanFAM.eventbrite.com
Save the Date
Friday-Saturday, July 20-21
ABC-Florida Keys Retreat
Islamorada, Fla.
Asia-Pacific Conference
Wednesday-Friday, August 22-24
Asia-Pacific Wedding Professionals Conference 2012
Sentosa Island, Singapore
www.apwpc.org
16
Wedding Planner Magazine
Sunday-Tuesday, Nov. 11-13
Achievements
Bobbi Hicks, Weddings by Bobbi, Sarasota, Fla., was
interviewed for “Who Cares About the Kardashians:
Aretha Franklin’s Getting Married!” published online,
Jan. 4, at Style Goes Strong.
Cindy Morley, PBC™, Eventful Moments, Port St. Lucie,
Fla., had wedding profiles published in Stuart Magazine
(www.StuartMagazine.com) in November 2011 and
December 2011. She was also featured in the article,
“Morley Celebrates 25 Years In the Industry,” in the
December 31, 2011 issue of The Stuart News.
Connie Amos-Parsons, PBC™, At Your Service Events
Planner, Lynchburg, Va., was ranked among the “Best of
Heather Snively, MBC™, Weddings Unique, Orlando,
Lynchburg” as the “Best Wedding Coordinator/PlanFla., was featured locally in: Orange Appeal magazine’s
ner” for the Bride’s Guide to Lynchburg 2011.
January/February issue in “Tips to Developing a
Wedding
Budget,” which she authored, and the Real
Candice Benson, MBC™, The Finishing Touch, Millburn,
Wedding of “Stefanie and Barton”; Orlando Home and
N.J., has been named the director of social media
Leisure’s February issue with the Real Wedding of “Jesfor the Association of Bridal Consultants. She will
sica and Enrique”; Central Florida Bridal’s Spring/Sumbe responsible for handling all social media for the
mer issue with the Real Wedding of “Krystal and Xam,”
organization and will retain her position as New Jersey
the “Ask the Expert” feature, and as the featured wedState Coordinator.
ding professional on the publication’s website, www.
cfbstyle.com. Regionally and nationally, Snively had the
Elise Enloe, MBC™, Attention to Details Weddings
Real Wedding of “Darcy and Bill” featured in The Knot;
& Events, Oviedo, Fla., has been promoted to Vice
was the quoted expert in “Destination Wedding Myths”
President of United States Operations in the Associafor the January/February issue of Destination Weddings
tion of Bridal Consultants. In her new role, she will
focus on membership growth and work with ABC state and Honeymoons; and was the quoted expert in “The
Best Ideas for Corporate and Social Events” in the
coordinators on member support and growth.
January/February issue of Biz Bash.
Wish Upon a Wedding (www.wishuponawedding.org)
launched its Michigan Chapter on Jan. 17 with an event
at The Crofoot in Pontiac, Mich. Lanie Lopez, director of
events for E3 Detroit in Novi, Mich., is the fundraising chair.
Rosie Moore, PBC™, 27 Miracles Wedding Consulting,
Windermere, Fla., recently published the book, A Story of
Faith, a personal story about the miraculous birth of her
son, Kaleb, who weighed only 1 pound, 10 ounces at birth.
The book is available for $15 through Amazon.com. All
proceeds go toward Nathanial’s Hope, a national special
needs organization or the charity of your choice.
ABC Kentucky Gathers
for Holidays
Amy Sheperd Photography
Association of Bridal Consultants Meetings & News
ABC Calendar
Kitzia Morales, partner of Love Mexico Weddings,
reported a record-breaking year with three Love Mexico
events for the destination wedding industry last year—
training more than 500 wedding planners in the United
States and Canada in Mexico’s specialized offerings and The ABC Kentucky branch had a holiday gathering
reaching more than 6,000 wedding industry profession- hosted by the historic Brown Hotel in Louisville in
December. Beside enjoying the wonderful food and
als through the web and social networks.
drinks and reflecting on the past year, members thanked
Cindy Morley, PBC™, Eventful Moments, Port St. Lucie, out-going state coordinator, Elisa MacKenzie MBC™,
for her year of dedication and support in building the
Fla., and a friend, have jointly taken over the position
Kentucky branch. New state coordinator, Beth Penner
of food and beverage and catering sales manager of
Torstrick PBC™, was welcomed to the position. Those
Loggerhead Club & Marina in Stuart, Fla.
attending were, first row, l-r: Amy Shepherd; Kenny
Sauter; Mackenzie Spalding; Beth Torstrick, PBC™; Elisa
Kim King Smith, ABC™, Kim King Smith Events, EdinMackenzie, MBC™; Maggie Heely; and Alicia Heely.
burgh, Ind., was voted No. 1 Wedding Planner for the
Central Indiana area, for the fourth consecutive year, by Second row, l-r: Marcie Hancock; Shannon Foster;
Brenda Pottinger; Teri Lieber; Debbie Eltzroth; and
WRTV Indianapolis AList.
Jessica Leisl. Third row, l-r: Audrey Petty; Lauren
Purcell; Carol Grisanti; Bethany Tiesman; Jackie Allen;
27 Miracles Wedding Consulting, Windermere, Fla.,
and Victor Sizemore. Fourth row, l-r: Kristina Haysley;
has won the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2012. This prestigious award is determined by reviews from past clients Ellen Fox, PBC™; and Tessa Wilbert. Fifth row, l-r:
Ashley Smith; Jeannie Smith, PBC™; Pamela Broadus;
and recognizes the top five percent of local wedding
Jeri Payne; Melanie Mauer; La’Keta Bobbitt; Lindsey
professionals from the WeddingWire Network. The
Brandenburg; and Bill Loeffler. Photography by Amy
business is owned by Rosie Moore, PBC™.
Sheperd Photography.
In the Media
Shay Freeman, MBC™, Bells & Bows, Little Rock, Ark.,
wrote the article “Hot Springs Meets Hollywood,”
about a celebrity wedding she planned for Disney
Channel’s “So Random” star Tiffany Thornton and her
groom, Chris Carney, vocalist for the former band Prom
Kings. It was published in the December issue of Hot
Springs Home and Life magazine. We Want to Hear From You!
Wedding Planner Magazine wants to hear from you.
If you are an ABC member and have recently marked
a significant achievement, been featured in the media,
have an ABC item for our calendar, or other information
to share, please contact us at Wedding Planner Magazine, 400 Main Street, La Crosse, WI 54601, 608.796.2257.
Or email [email protected].
The Association of Bridal Consultants congratulates the
following members who have achieved designation.
Professional Bridal Consultant™
Esther Amoah, Alexandria, Va.
Kristi Berry, Enchanted Occasions, LLC,
St. Augustine, Fla.
Krii Black, Durango Party Rentals, Bayfield, Colo.
Erin Bradburn, The Mansion at Oak Hill, Carmel, Ind.
Kim Breedlove, Magical Memories Event Planning,
Chesapeake Beach, Md.
ABC’s New Horizons is being replaced with ABC’s
World of Wedding Planning, an all new one-day startup Sarah Grisez, The Ritz-Carlton, Orlando, Fla.
Angela Hernandez, Riverside, Calif.
seminar created by Elise Enloe, MBC™, ABC director
Patsy Lawyer, Shining Star’s Wedding Rentals & Décor,
of education and Gloria Boyden, MBC™, Indiana state
Washington, Ind.
coordinator. Debuting this summer, watch for ABC’s
new intensive one-day startup seminar that answers the Jamilia Melvin, Forever in a Day, Philadelphia
Tiffany Monroe, Houston, Texas
question, “How Do I Get Started?”
Silvia Pacitto, Simply Chic SRL, Milano, Italy
All of ABC’s Expanding Horizons seminars are getting
Mark Paquette, Events Unwrapped, Denver
a spring “makeover.” We’re dropping the words,
Pamela Tarpley, Monroeville, Pa.
“Expanding Horizons,” and using their descriptive titles
instead. These seminars will be more skill-focused.
ABC’s “growth” seminars will focus on wedding skills
By David Wood, ABC president
facilitated by ABC masters. We’ll be working closer with Don’t get lured in by Internet scams. Criminals
a special group of corporate education members who
can now send emails, using your email address or
are already providing marketing and business coaching.
that of someone you know well. Opportunists
Many of our state coordinators are “passing the baton”
as well, having served honorably and faithfully for years. have recently attempted to scam Association
of Bridal Consultant (ABC) members by sending
We’ll list all the new selections in the next Wedding
fraudulent emails from the emails of well-known
Planner Magazine.
ABC members. If you receive the typical “I’ve been
mugged, please send money” email, please do not
send funds or provide any bank information. Just
In the January/February issue of Wedding Planner
Magazine, the Asia Pacific Wedding Professional
delete the message. In the event of a true emergency,
Conference was incorrectly listed as being in March
ABC members can contact the ABC office directly
2012. The correct dates are August 22-24, 2012.
with their needs, and the office can issue a legitimate
call for help to all ABC members if needed. For more
ABC member planner Maria Cunha’s name was
information on email scams and cyber crimes, visit
misspelled in the Trends article of the November/
www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Internet-Fraud.shtml.
December issue. It is spelled correctly here.
Internet Safety Reminder
Corrections
Who You’ll Meet In This Issue
Designations.................................................................................................17
Toni Adleta, PBC™.......................................................................................29
Connie Amos-Parsons, PBC™.................................................................16
Frank Andonoplas, MBC™................................................................13, 29
Lynda Barness, ABC™.................................................................................. 9
Sarah-Jane Bennett...................................................................................27
Candice Benson, MBC™............................................................................16
La’Keta Bobbitt............................................................................................16
Diane Boone.................................................................................................12
Gloria Boyden, MBC™...............................................................................17
Lindsey Brandenburg................................................................................16
Merryl Brown..............................................................................................29
Erin Calvimontes, PBC™...........................................................................29
Classic Party Rentals..................................................................................11
Maria Cunha..................................................................................................17
Tammy Cunningham, PBC™................................................................... 10
Stephanie K. Davis....................................................................................29
Elisa Delgardio, CSEP, MBC™.................................................................29
Toni Delisi, MBC™.......................................................................................29
Barbara Diez..................................................................................................13
Mimi Doke, MBC™.......................................................................................21
Joel Eckman Maus, Studio EMP.........................................................29
Debbie Eltzroth...........................................................................................16
Meghan Ely................................................................................................... 23
Elise Enloe, MBC™.......................................................................................16
Shay Freeman, MBC™.................................................................................16
Godfather Films..........................................................................................13
Shannon Foster............................................................................................16
Veronica Foster, ABC™............................................................................. 23
Ellen Fox, PBC™.............................................................................................16
Callie Garrett...............................................................................................25
John Goolsby, MEI, CPV, MPV..............................................................13
Edward L. Griffin, MWV™........................................................................13
Carol Grisanti...............................................................................................16
Stephanie L. Hassan.................................................................................29
Bobbi Hicks....................................................................................................16
Mark Kingsdorf, MBC™..............................................................................13
Teri Lieber.......................................................................................................16
Jessica Liesl....................................................................................................16
William Loeffler, W.A. Loeffler Enterprises.................................16
Lanie Lopez...................................................................................................16
Laura’s Couture Collection..............................................................9, 29
Maria A. Lugo, PBC™.................................................................................... 9
Elisa MacKenzie, MBC™............................................................................16
Laura Mease, ABC™, MWV™..............................................................9, 29
Love Mexico.................................................................................................16
dawn v gilmore fine art photography
It’s spring! It’s a time of freshness, renewal, and for the
Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC), a time for
many new initiatives. Here are several: New state websites will be rolling out this spring. In addition to listing
state and local meetings and activities for members,
all corporate, consultant, and vendor members will
automatically be listed so brides can find them easily.
ABC Designations
Celebrating 25 Years in the
Industry
Cindy Morley, PBC™, who caught wedding and event
planning fever while serving on her senior prom committee in 1985, recently celebrated her 25th anniversary
in the industry with a holiday party focused on giving
back. Each of the 125 guests or couples were asked to
bring in an unwrapped toy for the local charity, United
for Families. “We thought, we unite families every
weekend with what we do, so why not support and
give back to families,” says Morley. “I’m very happy to
say that we were able to donate over 55 toys to the
organization, allowing a variety families to have a little
brighter Christmas under the tree.” The event was supported by DiMichelli’s Catering, Bottoms Up Beverage,
Paragon Entertainment, Traxx Entertainment, Premier
Party Rentals, Misty Rose Florist, Dawn V. Gilmore
Photography, Treasure Coast Photobooth, Tradition
Town Hall, and United for Families.
Association of Bridal Consultants Meetings & News
By Elise Enloe, MBC™,
ABC Director of Education
© Jessica Arditi Photography
2012: The Year of Innovation
and Renovation
Camelú Millán Vagas, MBC™.................................................................21
Rosie Moore, PBC™.....................................................................................16
Cindy Morley, PBC™............................................................................ 16, 17
Kitzia Morales..............................................................................................16
Omu Obilor...................................................................................................15
OFD Consulting......................................................................................... 23
Melissa Osborne.......................................................................................29
LaToya Parnell, PBC™..................................................................................13
Jeri Payne, The Brown Hotel.................................................................16
Beth Penner Torstrick, PBC™..................................................................16
Audrey Petty, BBJ Linen...........................................................................16
Kristin Polhemus, PBC™............................................................................29
Jeannie Smith, PBC™...................................................................................16
Kim King Smith, ABC™....................................................................... 16, 29
Heather Snively, MBC™.............................................................................16
Mackenzie Spalding..................................................................................16
Shelly Stone..................................................................................................13
Tamara Lin Waterman, ABC™................................................................13
The Wedding DJs/Hardcastle Entertainment Inc.,..................13
David Wood, ABC President................................................................17
Tessa Wilbert................................................................................................16
Ariel Yve, MBC™............................................................................................11
Association of Bridal Consultants Directorscode of ethics
David M. Wood III, President
Gerard J. Monaghan, Co-Founder
Eileen P. Monaghan, Co-Founder
Elayne Anderson, Director of Operations.......................................................................................................................info@BridalAssn.com
Candice Benson, MBC™, director of social media...................................................................candice@thefinishingtouchevents.com
Carol Carroll, Director of Membership Records.........................................................................................................mob@BridalAssn.com
Dena Davey, Director of Marketing.................................................................................................................................. [email protected]
Elise Enloe, MBC™, Director of Education, VP of U.S. Operations....................................................................... [email protected]
Nancy Flottmeyer, PBC™, Creative Director................................................................................................. [email protected]
Lois Pearce, MBC™, Director of Ethnic Diversity..........................................................................................lois@beautifuloccasions.com
Nicole, DaSilva, Member Services................................................................................................................................mbrsvc@BridalAssn.com
ABC Office: 1.860.355.7000, fax 1.860.354.1404, www.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.
Wedding Planner Magazine
17
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Wedding Planner Magazine
By Edward Jaekel, CPA
Remote Desktop Connection/Desktop
Sharing Software
Internet connectivity sites like GoToMyPC,
LogMeIn, and WebEx, in addition to software
built into Microsoft Windows, give you and
your accountant the ability to share access to
your business’ computer system and accounting
records from virtually anywhere. The primary
In the not so olden days, small businesses often drawback is that remote access typically ties
relied on an accounting firm to process their
up the use of the computer while it’s being
transactions into monthly or quarterly financial accessed. This can limit real-time sharing and
statements. Since qualified accountants
cause inconveniences to both the small busiprepared these statements they were typiness owner and the accountant.
cally accurate and assisted business owners in
tracking and improving their business. The late Web-based Software
1990s saw the launch of affordable, easy-to-use Web-based software is simply a software apsmall business accounting applications such as plication written for use over the Internet. The
QuickBooks and Peachtree. Almost overnight,
advantage is anytime, anywhere access with
most small businesses were purchasing offreal-time sharing. The primary downside of
the-shelf software to track their own records.
web-based software is speed and functionality.
Unfortunately, accounting software doesn’t re- Since web-based software is written to run
place an accountant, and the quality of financial over Internet web browsers, such as Microsoft
statements went downhill. This problem was
Internet Explorer and Google Chrome, it opernot exposed until the economy took a turn for ates as Internet pages and lacks much of the
the worse in 2008. After this, banks and other functionality of desktop counterparts.
regulatory agencies demanded higher quality
financial data.
Application Service Provider (ASP)
Often referred to as Cloud-based applications,
Explore Your Options in the Cloud
ASP is simply the hosting of software applicaThe good news is this: With advances in
tions over a web-based, wide-area network.
technology, there are more options than ever
This can be as simple as having a virtual server
for helping small businesses manage their afhost a single software application or all of
fairs via the cloud, also known as the Internet. your office application. The major advantage of
These options allow small business owners
ASP technology is that the software is usually
unrestricted access while enabling real-time
hosted on large supercomputers in highly
communication with their accountant. This
secure data centers. The result is that your
leads to high-quality financial statements and
software speed is no longer reliant on your
time and money savings. Some of the more
individual machine—it is, instead, a product
common cloud-based options are:
of your Internet speed. Since the software is
The evolution of accounting for small
business has seen amazing advances in the
last 20 years. You could argue that, with recent
advancements in technology, it is coming full
circle for small business owners with some
exciting upgrades—upgrades that will see your
business soaring to the cloud.
run on a remote computer the only thing your
local computer processes is Internet screen
shots. This makes accessing your office on a
tablet a working reality. Large companies have
used ASP technology for many years, and now
the technology is more readily available and
cost effective to small businesses. Many believe this technology will soon replace owning
and maintaining your own computer server.
bu s ine s s ba s ic s
Take Your Business to the Cloud
The advances with cloud-based technology are
productive and exciting. With a reasonable
investment in technology, small businesses
can more effectively use real-time access to
improve the quality of their financial reporting
and enhance operations in ways that used to be
only the stuff of dreams. Best of all, this is just
the beginning. ••
Edward Jaekel is a founding partner in the Certified
Public Accounting firm JRM & Associates, LLC, in
Onalaska, Wis. With 20 years of experience in
his field, he specializes in business taxes, working
heavily with smaller to mid-sized companies and
actively helping his company and clients implement
software and web-based solutions. Ed is also active
in his local community and serves as a speaker
and instructor with the University of Wisconsin-La
Crosse Small Business Development Center.
Wedding Planner Magazine
19
And the Two become One
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Wedding Planner Magazine
Bride’s Cross
ma s ter bridal con s ultant ™
Master Profile
Camelú Millán Vargas, MBC™
Diseño Nupcial, www.disenonupcial.com, Mexico City, Mexico
Employees: 5 full- and part-time
Revenue Breakdown: 75% consulting, 15% day-of coordination, 10% rentals and services
Contact: (52) 55.5442.51.54, [email protected], disenonupcial.blogspot.com
Top left: This cake display, on a crystal table surrounded with cookies, was the focal point during one wedding dinner. Right: This wedding reception, with five types
of flower arrangements and designed by Guillermo Gonzalez, a famous decorator in Mexico, was held at the historic San Hipolito in Mexico. Bottom left: The bride
and groom’s table for this daylight wedding was decorated in shades of pink and green. Photos courtesy of Camelú Millán Vargas.
Family: Married, since 2000, to Luis Garcia
Rojas. They have two children: Diego, 5, and
Mikel, 18-months-old.
Education: I have a university degree, a communication degree in college, and my Master
Bridal Consultant™ designation from the ABC.
On the ABC: I have been a member since
1994. The ABC opened my vision of weddings,
and I started making connections with people
of other countries. Now, I run ABC’s Latin
America branch, and I see it’s a good opportunity to educate the market in Latin America.
We are growing fast.
MBC™ Status: I really wanted to be better at
what I did and take my business to a new level.
I knew that the MBC™ designation could help
me a lot. The process took six years.
Other Memberships: Locally, there is an association in which only the top three services
in each area are recognized. This year, I am one
of the three wedding coordinators. I feel proud
of being part of the Consejo de Profesionales
en Eventos.
Starting the Business: I started Diseño
Nupcial because I was getting married to a
person whom I ultimately didn’t marry. Still,
I approached the ABC and saw a business opportunity that we didn’t have in Mexico City.
So, I started my business Oct. 2, 1994, with
only one wedding—that of a friend.
Goals: This past year, we started charging
more money. We had less weddings but with
very good profit. I’d like to continue like this,
doing only 10 weddings a year. I also have ABC
Latinamerica, which is growing, so I try to work
hard in both companies.
Mentors: I’ve always admired Mimi Doke,
MBC™. Also, Colin Cowie has inspired me.
Marketing Strategy: I network with
vendors and event managers in hotels. I try to
be part of every event I can. The vendors are
the ones who recommend me.
Industry Influencers: The influencers will
be the brides. We could propose creative and
practical things, but the bride and the groom
are the ones who finally decide what they want
in their wedding. We need to be educated and
learn about trends all of the time.
Staying Fresh: I try to discover new ways to
make weddings easier. I visit with professional
people who can help me and my business look
big. Each year, I buy clothes in order to be
innovative and creative and reinvent myself for
the new brides.
In the Media: I made a book/agenda for
brides in 2002, and I write a lot in different
magazines in Mexico: Kena Novias, Nupcial, and
Novias de Pasarela. In the United States, I write
for a Hispanic magazine in Atlanta. On television, I had my own space four years ago. Also,
I have been interviewed on several programs
that discuss weddings.
Ideal Client: My ideal client has no limit in
the budget, but is very specific in what he/
she wants.
Inspiration: I find inspiration in books,
at conferences, talking with people, visiting
restaurants, in wines and food, by looking
at magazines, meeting with vendors, and,
definitely, from brides.
Favorite Movies: Meet Joe Black, Vatel.
Favorite book: A Mexican novel called Aura
by Carlos Fuentes. But I will soon be starting to
read the book by Grace Ormonde that I bought
at conference.
Words of Wisdom: Continue your education. Try to shadow the experts at their
weddings as apprentices. Eat at restaurants to
educate your sense of taste with fine food and
wines. Go to conferences and meetings—this
will help you network.
On Giving Back: I do a lot of free education
in my country. For the community, we have
participated in Teleton, our national program
for disabled children. ••
Wedding Planner Magazine
21
The “Miss Dorothy” Heart Award
Deadline is August 15, 2012
The Miss Dorothy Penner Heart Award for Passion
and Excellence to the Wedding Industry is the only
award presented by the Association of Bridal Consultants. It honors a member who has demonstrated
a “passion for the wedding industry.” Members are
nominated by their peers and are judged by the Miss
Dorothy committee.
The winner will be announced at the Business of
Brides Conference in Denver.
The “Miss Dorothy” Scholarship
Deadline is July 31, 2012
This scholarship is for Novice members only. It
allows them to attend the Business of Brides annual
conference. This year’s conference is in Denver.
The winner will be notified on Sept. 1, 2012,
and will be announced at the Business of Brides
conference. The award must be used for the 2012
conference.
y
r
a
s
r
e
v
ni
n
A ssue
Download both applications today
at www.BridalAssn.com.
A publication inspired
by the
Association of Bridal
Consultants
March/April 2012
Volume 2 Issue 1
Thank You!
1st
the publication for
wedding planners,
professionals, and
designers
Annive1 rsary
st
Issue
I
Emerging Color Trends
WPM Advisory Board 8
13
Nigerian Weddin
gs 15
Doing Business in
the Cloud
Dramatic Event Lightin 19
g 23
The crew at Wedding Planner Magazine
wants to thank our readers,
advertisers, and this incredible
industry we promote on our pages
every other month!
We promise to continue to inspire,
educate, and promote all of you!
Here’s to another fabulous year!
22
Wedding Planner Magazine
A B C member in s ig h t
Add a little Drama To Your Life
with Event Lighting
By Meghan Ely, OFD Consulting
photos by PW photography
After hours of meetings and countless emails back and forth,
the stage has been set for an exquisite day for your bride and groom. The
bad news? No one is going to notice the English garden tablescape in a
dark and uninspired ballroom.
The solution? Professional event lighting, which is quickly becoming a
“must have” on the list of wedding planners and brides alike—from a
projected monogram on the dance floor to strategically placed pin spotting that highlights favorite details.
design by McBride Events
to watch rooms that we have photographed in for years completely change
and feel like we are photographing them for the first time ever as the
lighting breathes new life into old favorites,” says Pete Wright, owner of
PW Photography of Richmond, Va. “We tell all of our brides that if you
want your guests’ jaws to drop, the one place to invest to get that impact is
event lighting!”
The 411 on working as a team
When incorporating professional lighting into an event, take the time
to ensure that everyone from the wedding team is on the same page. A
site visit is a must unless the lighting company has ample experience
“Event lighting is the game changer”
at the venue. The wedding photographer should be informed of these
“We’re continuing to see a steady increase in bridal traffic in all of our
markets,” says Jeremy Kilgore, owner of East Coast-based lighting design additional elements in advance as a courtesy. Plan for ample set-up and
breakdown time in the wedding day timeline for the installation crew
company Blue Steel Lighting Design. “Brides and their planners invest
months and potentially thousands of dollars into décor that often ends up and designers, and be sure that any restrictions are discussed with the
venue well in advance.
looking drab in the wrong space. Event lighting is the game changer.”
Creating a custom image on the dance floor is just the beginning, as today’s event lighting companies have the resources to transform rooms,
oftentimes in the midst of the party itself. In addition to pin spotting,
up lighting is a popular selection that “washes” a space with light and
color to enhance a wedding’s theme. Depth and texture can be added to
most venues with a wall wash projecting subtle images that play up the
bride’s vision.
Jaw-dropping room transformations are possible
Those looking for a particularly sigh-inducing first dance can have a
wash customized specifically as the bride and groom make their way
center stage for the very first dance as husband and wife. Those desiring
an al fresco look can request “stars” to be created just above the bride
and groom for added drama. For simpler spaces, a series of custom chandeliers and ample candle light will do the trick.
Wedding planners are challenged nearly every day to inspire brides
with new and innovative design ideas, which is why the community
has embraced the addition of event lighting. “I just love lighting,” says
Veronica Foster, ABC™, owner of Behind the Scenes and coordinator of
ABC North Carolina. “When done correctly, it adds a whole new dimension to the event.” Wedding photographers are on board as well, as they
find venues transforming before their very eyes. “It has been an adventure
Like any professional that you’re considering adding to the wedding day
team, the best event lighting companies will provide strong references,
have great relationships with the top local venues and will wow you with
an extensive portfolio. Select a company that offers an onsite technician
throughout the event to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
With “been there, done that” wedding details suddenly having the
opportunity to be seen in a different light, it comes as no surprise that
professional event lighting is here to stay. ••
Meghan Ely is the owner the
wedding market and wedding PR
firm OFD Consulting. She is the
exclusive wedding PR columnist
to wedding marketing journal
WedLock magazine and is a highly
sought-after speaker in the wedding industry. She loves ruffle
table runners and royal wedding
tchotchkes.
Wedding Planner Magazine
23
Get noticed in
the wedding
industry!
Have a product or service
that needs to be in front of
wedding professionals?
Contact Nancy Flottmeyer for a
media kit and more information at
[email protected]
or 608.796.2257. We have a variety
of rates for all advertising budgets.
ABC Corporate Members always receive
20% off of advertising rates.
Contact Dena Davey for a media kit
at [email protected] or
860.355.7000, ext. 2.
Ad deadlines for upcoming issues
March 7, 2012: May/June
Tented Wedding Issue
May 7, 2012: July/August
Destination Wedding Issue
July 7, 2012: September/October
Catering Trends Issue
by the
A publication inspired
nts
Bridal Consulta 4
Association of
1 Issue
ober 2011 Volume
September/Oct
the publication
s, professionals,
for wedding planner
A publication inspired by
the
Association of Bridal Consultants
May/June 2011 Volume
1 Issue 2
and designers
the publication for wedding
planners, professionals, and
designers
Premier Issue
A publication inspired by
the
Association of Bridal Consultants
March / April 2011 Volume
1 Issue 1
Catering Trend
ry Wedding
ta Mass Milita the publication for wedding planners, professionals, & designers
t Puerta Vallar
s Alan Berg’s Insigh ation Contract Tips
Flower Show Inspir
Fabulous Tented Wedding
s…Economic Outlook…
Savvy Ceremony Insight
…Irish Wedding Traditions
…Favorite Apps and more…
the
A publication inspired by
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2 Issue
March/April 2012 Volume
AnniIsvesursare y
the publication for wedding
A publication inspired by
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January/February 2012
Volume 1 Issue 6
designers
planners, professionals, and Color
Trends…SYE’s Inaugural
Wedding at Trump Soho
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Business of Brides 2010…
Italy FAMinar Highlights
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1st
the publication for wedding
Emerging Color Trends 34
WPM Advisory Board 55
Nigerian Weddings 19
23
Doing Business in the Cloud
9
Dramatic Event Lighting
planners, professionals, and
designers
Building a Brand
Green Weddings
Business of Brides Review
Creative Ceremony Details
What It Means to Be a MBC™
24
Wedding Planner Magazine
G E O RG I A
Real Wedding
ABC member planner: Callie Garrett,
We Tie The Knots, Atlanta, 770.597.0023,
[email protected], www.wetietheknots.com.
Photographer: Christy Parry Photography.
Other businesses involved: Candler Park
Flower Mart (floral), King Plow Arts Center (venue),
KissAtlanta (DJ).
The couple: Laura and Dan are very down-toearth and were both very involved in the planning
process. They really wanted to ensure their guests
had a great time and enjoyed the environment.
Inspiration: Overall, it was rustic/modern. The
couple wanted a modern and casual feel, yet
still elegant. That’s exactly what we got from the
bridesmaids’ dresses, which were each different
styles but all made of black chiffon, coupled with
the floral arrangements. The yellow accent color
really popped well with the industrial venue and
black linens.
Color palette: Yellow and grays.
Approximate budget: $30,000.
Most unique design element: The ceremony
was “in the round,” with the bride and groom
standing in the center of the circle.
Biggest challenge: Not letting the bride and
groom run into each other throughout the day
because their staging rooms were right next to the
photography locations.
Hindsight: In the future, I would definitely allow
time after pictures (during cocktail hour) for the
bride and groom to sit alone to refresh and have a
chance to enjoy being married before the reception begins. ••
Wedding Planner Magazine
25
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Real Wedding
ABC Member Planner: Sarah-Jane Bennett,
All Events Perfect, LLC, Tyrone, Ga.,
770.969.9608, [email protected],
www.alleventsperfect.com.
Photographer: Ahmet Ze Photography,
Matawan, N.J.
other businesses involved:
Boum Savvy, Absolute Events Entertainment,
and Liberty House.
The couple: The story of Patrice and Elijah is too
incredible not to share. They met when Patrice
answered Elijah’s Craigslist ad seeking a backup
singer for his band, Elijah Bland. Though she
joined the band, she was also, in an unrelated opportunity, selected for the national tour of Dream
Girls. She played “Effie,” the lead role. When Elijah
and Patrice married on March 25, 2011, in Jersey
City, Patrice sang one of the songs from the show
to Elijah at the reception.
Inspiration: Sassy, contemporary.
Most unique design element: The use of their
self-created logo/monogram. Elijah’s background
is in graphic design, so we used that opportunity
to highlight his talent and truly gibe something
original. The logo is comprised of their love of
music, symbolized by the trebleclef, the heart
of their love, and the “B” representing their last
name, Bland.
Color palette: Eggplant, turquoise.
Approximate budget: $45,000.
Guest count: 180.
Biggest challenge: The weather. One of the
highlights of the venue is outdoor space because
it is on the Hudson River and facing New York.
The original plan was to have the wedding outside, but we didn’t know how the weather would
play out. Unfortunately, it was about 30 degrees
with a horrible wind chill, so the wedding had to
be inside where the reception would later be. We
used pipe and drape to hide the tables that were
already set up. They couple still had gorgeous
pictures taken outside.
Hindsight: Patrice and Elijah had a very
elaborate cocktail-hour spread. Adding an extra
15-30 minutes would have allowed guests more
time to partake in all the great food and activities.
Guests were given fun VIP “backstage” passes as
guest escort cards. They also could stop at the
“step and repeat stand” to have their picture
taken. But, by the time guests got a few vittles,
drinks, and their escort card, it was time to start
the reception. ••
Wedding Planner Magazine
27
28
Wedding Planner Magazine
“Depending on the situation, it’s not uncommon for me to steal an hour or two in
some place far beyond the scope of weddings or special events. Whether that’s
the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a visit to a local historic estate, or an antique
store, I often find my imagination sparked by something out of the ordinary. My
mind continues to turn it every which way until this one little item has a life
beyond its original form.”
- Tonia Adleta, PBC™, Aribella Events, West Grove, Pa.
Inspiration
- Toni DeLisi, MBC™, Memorable Events,
Ramsey, N.J.
“One of my greatest sources of
inspiration is the work of the late
designer, Tony Duquette. His work
has really informed quite a bit of
what I do.”
- Merryl Brown, Merryl Brown Events,
Montecito, Calif.
“The one thing that tells me the most
about the bride and her style is seeing the
wedding dress that she has chosen.”
- Erin Calvimontes PBC™, Divine
Celebrations, Pittsburgh
“Nothing gets my inspirational
juices pumping faster than a visit to
an industry tradeshow. I really enjoy
viewing and analyzing the work of
other event professionals...Some
of these ideas become seeds of a
future event.”
A B C member be s t practice s
“I find inspiration for a
client’s event is a process that
evolves, so wherever I am—shopping
at Bloomingdale’s, eating out at a
new restaurant, taking in a museum,
seeing a movie, or simply buying a
card in a gift shop—I always have my
eyes wide open and thank God for
cell phones with cameras so I can
take a picture and bring the idea
back to my office.”
- Elisa Delgardio, CSEP, MBC™, A Flair for
Affairs, Orlando, FLA.
“I am inspired by all things
beautiful—art, architecture, fine
“In order to create fresh, organic design,
fabrics, high fashion, and the
elements of natural beauty that bring I turn to fashion and interior design for
my inspiration. It only takes one truly
everything together.”
- Laura Mease, ABC™, AWV™, Laura’s Couture
Collection, Shawnee Mission, Kan.
great sofa, vase, or garment to inspire an
entire event concept or color palette.”
- Kristin Polhemus, PBC™, Bella Bridal
Consultants, Hamilton, N.J.
:Where Do You Find It?
“Pinterest is my newest and favorite source of inspiration. The
creativity is just exploding on there. If I need ideas for centerpieces,
favors, or anything, that is where I go. I also add my own work to
Pinterest so that others can get ideas from me, too.”
- Melissa Osborne, All About You Productions Wedding and Event Planning,
Novi, Mich.
“I read about 35 magazines a month. In addition to all the bridal magazines, I read
food, décor, and lifestyle magazines, and clip out pictures of things I’m drawn to. From
Victoria to Luxe, Harper’s Bazaar to Traditional Home, and from Wallpaper to Food and
Wine, I spend a lot in magazine subscriptions.”
- Frank J. Andonoplas, MBC™, Frank Events, Chicago
“I get inspiration all around me—
in the media, enjoying the way
the morning light gently blankets
my town while I’m biking to
the studio, seeing thousands of
photographs daily, and I love
photo books from the masters
and newer photographers.”
- Joel Eckman Maus, Studio EMP,
Fullerton, Calif.
“Don’t count out sleep! I tend to come
up with some great ideas thanks to my
dreams. It may have been a little hint
of something that caught my eye in a
storefront or a conversation with an
old friend that I forgot, but somehow
my brain remembers. I cannot count
the number of times I have jumped out
of bed and run down the hall to my
desk. Inspiration comes from the least
expected places.”
- Stephanie L. Hassan, Table 7 Events, Inc.,
La Centia, Calif.
“I get inspired by color combos,
current trends, and new matches.
I look to Preston Bailey, and other top
designers for their take on trends. I look
at programs such as I Do Over, My Fair
Wedding with David Tetura, Amsale
Girls etc. for what they are doing with
styles. I just let my imagination run, and
then I design from the visions created in
my mind.”
- Stephanie K. Davis, A Passion for Elegance,
Ellicott City, Md.
“I find inspiration from nature. I can’t
think of a better resource! I look at the
vivid shades on sunny days and the muted
colors on gray. What is better than the
palette of an unforgettable sunset or a
patch of wildflowers. Nature gives me
depth, dimension, and the courage to pair
colors that I might not think of together.
Nature also is a great resource for floral
design and using unusual elements
combined together—twigs, sand, stone,
feathers, weed pods, leaves, bark, moss.”
- Kim King Smith, ABC™, Kim King Smith Events,
Edinburgh, Ind.
Wedding Planner Magazine
29
advertisers index
marketplace
Accessories
Colin Cowie Weddings………………………………………………… 2
Quick Candles… …………………………………………………………… 14
Associations
American Disc Jockey Association… …………………… 28
Awards
Miss Dorothy Penner Heart Award……………………… 22
Miss Dorothy Scholarship………………………………………… 22
Destination Weddings
Colin Cowie Weddings………………………………………………… 2
Hard Rock Hotel……………………………………………………………… 2
Mexico Tourism Board…………………………………………… 4, 6
Palace Resorts… ……………………………………………………………… 2
Sandals Resorts… ……………………………………………………26, 31
Weddings by Martha Stewart………………………………… 31
Educational Programs/conferences
Business of Brides………………………………………………………… 30
Your marketplace ad here
Promote your product or service here for as little as $1890 a year*
ABC Corporate members advertising cost is $1500 a year.
Keepsakes
Art Vows… ……………………………………………………………………… 24
Keepsake Floral…………………………………………………………… 18
ketubah.com… ………………………………………………………………… 3
The Unity Cross…………………………………………………………… 20
Whether it be invitations, fabric, linens, rentals, software, lighting, furniture, or
tents, our readers influence their client’s purchase decisions in the industry. If
each of our readers work with 10 clients a year, that is over 35,000 potential
brides who could hear abour your product. Where else can you get that much
return on your investment? Call 608-796-2257 today for more information.
Media
The WV… ………………………………………………………………………… 22
* based on a six-time advertising contract for Non-ABC corporate members
Resorts & Hotels
Hard Rock Hotel……………………………………………………………… 2
Sandals Resorts… ……………………………………………………26, 31
Palace Resorts… ……………………………………………………………… 2
Software
Elm Software………………………………………………………………… 32
Murphys Creativity Software… ……………………………… 18
Tourism/Travel
Mexican Tourism Board… ……………………………………… 4, 6
Wedding Agencies
Simply Yours Barbados……………………………………………… 30
Register early for this year’s
Business of Brides
Annual Conference
in Denver, Colorado
$595 by April 15, 2012
Register at www.BridalAssn.com,
www.businessofbrides.com, or by calling
1.860.355.7000
Sometimes one location can have it all. Don’t spend your conference in a
shuttle—spend it having fun and networking. Don’t miss an unforgettable
event in the heart of downtown Denver while you stay at the Grand Hyatt.
You’ll see both sides of this amazing town, so break out your denim and
diamonds! From four-star dining to country line dancing, you can experience
all the Mile High City has to offer Sunday through Tuesday, Nov. 11-13, 2012,
at the Grand Hyatt in Denver at “Diamonds and Denim,” ABC’s Business of
Brides annual conference.
30
Wedding Planner Magazine
Love Is All You Need
Scan thiS tag for
more information
about SandalS’ vow
renewal packageS
What better way to keep the romance alive, year after year, than by reliving your honeymoon night at
the resorts made for love. your clients will have the time of their lives, with the love of their lives, as they
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Visit Sandals.com/vows to learn more!
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Contact kim Sardo, Sr. Business development director
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Stewart themes available at an additional cost. Sandals ® is a registered trademark. Weddings by Martha StewartTM is a trademark and service mark of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.
Copyright © 2012, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. All rights reserved. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.
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