How much advance notice do I need to plan a wedding?
It has been my experience that the more time you have, the better. Many of the more popular venues
or vendors will be spoken for quickly, so the more advance time you have, the higher probability for contracting with
your #1 choices. However, typically having 12-13 months time in small to medium size markets is ideal, and 18 months
or longer is preferred in larger markets/cities. However, I am known for making things happen, regardless of timing,
so don't let a short engagement discourage you from having your dream wedding.
Why do wedding and event planners' fees vary so much?
My grandmother liked to invoke the old saying "you get what you pay for". In most cases this is true.
That is not to say that someone who is charging you a lot of money will be the best planner, however, the fee usually
equates to the amount of time that planner is willing to expend toward your special event. I know I am very detail
oriented, so when I get going on planning a wedding/event, I always go beyond what is stated in the contract — simply
because I want things to be perfect for my clients. With me, you will definitely "get what you pay for" and then some!
Why contract with a wedding or event planner at all?
This is a good question that doesn't have a simple answer. There are many reasons why people hire a
wedding or event planner. The number one reason I hear is TIME. Most clients don't have the time to devote to planning
a large-scale event. With family commitments, jobs, and other activities in one's day-to-day life, it can become difficult
to find enough time in the day to adequately plan a wedding. Also, by the time most people come home from work, many of
the vendors' offices are closed, making it difficult to really solicit anyone.
The second reason to contract with a Planner is for their expertise in knowing who to go to in order to get the best
pricing, etc. Planners already have established relationships with vendors and venues. Most of the time, the Planner
can get a reduced rate for items that the bride or the company cannot. I know with my weddings, the savings I negotiate
on behalf of my brides is always significant.
The final reason people contract with a Planner is because as talented as some folks are, many lack vision for something
as big and detailed as a wedding or a large-scale event. Sometimes even thinking about it can be so overwhelming, it can
almost be paralyzing, and nothing gets done. I have over 24 years of planning experience under my belt. Throwing
parties/large scale events is exciting for me. This is what I do! I want to make this the most memorable and unique day
for you — a day that you and your guests will be talking about for years to come.