Behind the Scenes- Taste of Excellence

Food is a HUGE part of the wedding day and finding good food that fits your taste, style and budget is important and difficult.  The best thing you can do is use a referral from a planner, family or friend. While reviews are helpful, people have very different taste and different expectations of food so you really should taste food from any company that you work with for your event.  Also, never be afraid to ask for changes to the menu if you prefer different flavors or portion sizes.  Taste of Excellence has had a consistent presence in the market place for years and they staff some of my VERY favorite people.  I really love working with them and thankfully they were kind enough to be interviewed for the blog.  

Let me introduce my FAVORITE of favorites with Taste Of Excellence- Taylor Amsden-Winter

Q: What is the biggest misconception about your industry?
A: The amount of time and manpower it takes to execute an event, from set up to dinner service to breaking down at the end of the night- it takes an army!

Q: How you describe your style and your brand? 
A: We’re a completely custom-designed catering service. We use all local and organic products when possible and pride ourselves on keeping up-to-date with current culinary trends.

Q: What are a few mistakes brides sometimes make when choosing their vendor?
A: A big mistake is not sitting down with each vendor before booking them so that as the vendor, we can better understand the client’s vision and get to know them.  This helps the client feel more at ease throughout their entire planning process knowing that we can provide the level of service they envision.

Q: What things should a client look for, look at, when selecting a vendor?
A: They should look for a vendor that they can trust is going to deliver what their expectations are the day of the event. Anyone can tell you that they have experience, as a client you have to do your research and trust that your vendor will follow through with what they say.

Q: If you had a client who had endless funds what unique ideas and products/services would you offer them?
A: The same thing we offer all of our clients- exceptional service, creative menu planning and exquisite cuisine based off of their vision for their big day.

Q: What are a few things that clients should review in contracts?
A: Everything- every detail of that contract is imperative to the clients understanding of the product and service that they’re receiving. We require a meeting with our clients a week prior to their event to review the details of their contract so as to insure that no detail is left uncovered.

Q: What is something you wish all of your clients knew, or a certain thing you wish all of your clients would do to make working with them easier?
A: Communication is key throughout the planning process- it’s our job to help inform and guide our clients throughout their planning.

Q: Who is your ideal client?  
A: Someone who likes to eat! 

That's some great information from Taste of Excellence and as you can see they believe in the same things that All Events Planned believes in- good service (no matter what your budget), value and hard work.  

Check them out here www.taste-food.com 

Happy Planning!
www.alleventsplanned.com 

Behind the Scenes with A Cookie & A Cupcake

We love getting to know more about our favorite vendors as well as getting to see "behind the scenes".  We created this series more than 7 years ago and are thrilled to start presenting some new interviews with area vendors.

First up, A Cookie & A Cupcake

Q: What is the biggest misconception about your industry?

A: So the truth is there is only one big misconception about baking in general, and I know I speak for many pastry chefs and bakeries when I say this.....There are not unicorns and puppy dogs magically baking our product  lol. People think that an 8 tiered cake can be whipped up in no time and can be completely custom, let alone that you may have any other previous projects due, but it will cost next to nothing. This sometimes disappoints many bakeries but truth is, its all about educating the client. So, we at A Cookie and A Cupcake will always try and fit whomever into our schedule with any project but we may have to adjust the design a bit. Our suggestion to clients is to always be well prepared, ask questions, and be reasonable about your budget expectations.

Q: Describe your "brand" at A Cookie and A Cupcake? 

A: A Cookie and A Cupcake has always prided ourselves on our handmade, from scratch baking....we don't keep a freezer full of cakes, but we make everything to order. This not only helps with the freshness of our cupcakes but it extends the life for our client to be able to buy them and enjoy right away or in a few days. We love making and creating and our heart is in everything we do. 

Q: What are some mistakes you see couples make when choosing their baker? 

A: I don't think its necessarily about mistake in choosing a vendor, but more of being realistic. You often see people using their "aunt who has a  friend that bakes" or a friend who will do it for free.....this doesn't always work. So being realistic about your budget and your expectations is the key in choosing a vendor. We are not the cheapest around nor are we the most expensive, but we are "seasoned", with amazing product that your guests will enjoy and remember.

Q: What should a client look for in bakery? 

A: Well, I may say the same thing over again for this question....Always know your budget ( a realistic budget) and your expectation of product before choosing a vendor. So many brides are burdened with keeping in a certain budget and have Walmart prices in mind but want a amazing cake or cupcakes. Now, we do not think that Walmart is bad, but we are a boutique bakery using amazing local ingredients with care and are able to produce a much better product. So if you need to evaluate what you want versus what you can truly afford. 

Q: What are some benefits to working with A Cookie and A Cupcake?  

A: The bride can count on not having a bunch of small fees with A Cookie and a Cupcake. We have a package that includes the delivery fee ( up to 20 miles), and display stand. Also, when choosing A Cookie and A Cupcake you get a large flavor list to choose from for the same price. 

Q: What is something that you think a client should splurge on with their wedding cake?

A: Well a couple should feel like they are in good hands, from custom designs to amazing product. So you should always feel like using the endless list of flavor combinations to your advantage. Whether your choosing a tiered cake or a cupcake wedding, enjoy having a dessert not just plain cake, pick flavors you would like and this will be something your friends and family will appreciate. Now I always say splurge on design as well. there are plenty of ways that you can get an amazing cake if you don't have the budget, and that's what I am here for, but if you had to choose I would say spend the money on designing a one of a kind cake!

Q: What would you do with a client who had an endless budget for cake? 

A: We love helping our clients with creating the most amazing cake for their budget, but we have had a few lucky times when their is not a set budget...and this is a great opportunity for our client. We love designing one of a kind cakes and cupcakes. many times we draw up sketches and work together to create something that is just for the couple. This also included unique flavors as well as unique edible favors. 

Q: What should clients pay special attention to in their cake contract? 

A: I think the fine print is what many people forget to read. The feed back I get from clients about their other vendors is they forgot or didn't see the fine print and end up paying much more then intended. We are very open (as many bakeries are) about out policies and costs. there are no hidden fees or taxes and gratuities to worry about. But I have heard couples say they have run out of money because they didn't see something in their contract and it added "blank" amount of money. So, my advice is not only to read the fine print but take notes and right down reminders. Couples are too busy the last week of their wedding to get hit with hidden fees, so if you are prepared it will go smoothly. 

Q: What are some things a client should know to make working with you an easier experience? 

A: I think its mainly that we want you to feel like you are the only client but we do have many clients and most bakeries are hands on owners. We work extreme hours and most of the time we have endless days. We do this because we love it and we want to make people smile when they enjoy our product....which we never get to see them enjoy lol. So the more time you give a baker the better....it helps us manage our production schedule and our personal schedule .

Q: What do you love most about working with clients? 

A: I love when a client is excited about their special event, they are enthusiastic and want to have a wow piece as their dessert. These clients acknowledge the time put into their product and choose us because we can make that happen. These clients are usually back every year for birthdays, anniversaries etc.....and that's why we love them. 

You can see from the answers that A Cookie and A Cupcakee is a company that loves what they do and enjoys the process.  I hope that you have a great wedding cake for your big day, if you aren't sure who to book, be sure to check out A Cookie and A Cupcake!  

Happy Planning!

www.AllEventsPlanned.com 

Questions That Lead to Love....?

I've seen this article passed around over the internet and then had a client send it over to me for review.  She suggested that I send it to my other bridal clients so that they could have these conversations with the person they are about to marry.  

What do you think?  Can you ask?  Do you already know?  Is anyone willing to have the conversation and let me know how it went?  Could we find two strangers and see what happens? 

Here is the actual article-
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/11/fashion/no-37-big-wedding-or-small.html  

Here are the questions from the article- 

Set I

1. Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest?

2. Would you like to be famous? In what way?

3. Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?

4. What would constitute a “perfect” day for you?

5. When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else?

6. If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?

7. Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die?

8. Name three things you and your partner appear to have in common.

9. For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

10. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?

11. Take four minutes and tell your partner your life story in as much detail as possible.

12. If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?

Set II

13. If a crystal ball could tell you the truth about yourself, your life, the future or anything else, what would you want to know?

14. Is there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a long time? Why haven’t you done it?

15. What is the greatest accomplishment of your life?

16. What do you value most in a friendship?

17. What is your most treasured memory?

18. What is your most terrible memory?

19. If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living? Why?

20. What does friendship mean to you?

21. What roles do love and affection play in your life?

22. Alternate sharing something you consider a positive characteristic of your partner. Share a total of five items.

23. How close and warm is your family? Do you feel your childhood was happier than most other people’s?

24. How do you feel about your relationship with your mother?

Set III

25. Make three true “we” statements each. For instance, “We are both in this room feeling ... “

Continue reading the main storyContinue reading the main storyContinue reading the main story

26. Complete this sentence: “I wish I had someone with whom I could share ... “

27. If you were going to become a close friend with your partner, please share what would be important for him or her to know.

28. Tell your partner what you like about them; be very honest this time, saying things that you might not say to someone you’ve just met.

29. Share with your partner an embarrassing moment in your life.

30. When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?

31. Tell your partner something that you like about them already.

32. What, if anything, is too serious to be joked about?

33. If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?

34. Your house, containing everything you own, catches fire. After saving your loved ones and pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to save any one item. What would it be? Why?

35. Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?

36. Share a personal problem and ask your partner’s advice on how he or she might handle it. Also, ask your partner to reflect back to you how you seem to be feeling about the problem you have chosen.

Happy Planning!

www.alleventsplanned.com 

Who Really Needs a Planner- Laura & Tim

There are few things I love as much as following up with brides to see what they did/didn't like about the the planning process.  Laura and Tim were married at Weymouth Country Club (a venue that I was familiar with) on a beautiful and very sunny day!  I had a great time working with her to put together a truly glamorous day.  She hired the great Pieter Bouterse Studio to do the floral work and design for her big day and had RAD there to capture it all.  Here are her answers along with some of the beautiful photos!  

Q: What made you decide to hire a wedding planner?

A: I hired a wedding planner because I started to feel overwhelmed with doing everything myself. I knew I was only having 2 people in my bridal party and there were so many things to consider.

Q: What types of things attracted you to each planner that you interviewed?

A: Brandi interviewed me! I needed a planner for the day of. I contacted her because she lived close to me and found out later that we had mutual friends. 

Q: What was something that made you NOT want to hire a particular planner and on the same note what was something you found that made you WANT to hire a certain planner?   

A: Originally, I did not have a planner in my budget. I was worried about the cost. Someone suggested to me hiring a planner.

Q: What was the best thing your wedding planner did for you? 

A: If anything went wrong at my wedding, I didnt know about it. And still dont!

Q: What was something your planner did that you would never have thought of doing?

A: Almost everything!

Q: Did you feel that your wedding planner was worth the cost?

A: Absolutely. Especially knowing that i did not have to deal with the invitations. 

Q: Was there anything you would have changed about your experience with your wedding planner?

A: I would have had my family more involved with my planner so I could have had less responsibilities.

Q: What would you have changed about your wedding? 

A: I wouldn't change anything about my wedding. 

There is no better testament to a wedding planners services than "I wouldn't change a thing about my wedding".  I love hearing that.  

Happy Planning!

www.alleventsplanned.com 

Secrets Behind- Makeup Artist with Lindsay London

In my favorite series "Secrets Behind" I've talked with lots of different vendors this time, I'm excited to talk with a makeup artist for secrets behind the wedding makeup!

Lindsay London was kind enough to talk with me about working with a makeup artist for your wedding day.  

Sometimes, I think this aspect of planning gets put on the back burner and then is an after thought by quite a few brides.  How you look is SO important and while no one wants to look "not like themselves" (as I hear so often) real, experienced, wedding makeup artist are able to make you look JUST like you, only "wedding ready".  I think that really means they make it so that you are comfortable, beautiful and authentic but, in full makeup.

  

Lindsay herself has some great feedback on the process- "Most Brides are dreaming of the perfect dress since they were little girls or spend hours doing research on the styles that fit their body type best. Having a flawless face and the right hair style can be the ultimate finishing touch to the perfect bridal look. I've heard it a million times from Brides that say they can do their own make up or that their maids don't want to make the investment. But when it comes down to it, On your wedding day- you deserve to be pampered and feel like a movie star as your beauty team comes to you so you can relax and enjoy your time with your favorite ladies."

That's what you want on your wedding day, right?  Flawless.  

Q: What is the biggest misconception about your industry?

A: I think the biggest misconception in the beauty industry is that anyone can do bridal make up. As women most of us wear make-up daily but by having an experienced professional apply your make up you  will not only make you and your entire bridal party look amazing in all the photos it also makes the beginning of your busy day that much  more relaxing.

Q: What are a few mistakes brides sometimes make when choosing their makeup artist? 

A: I think it’s important to find an artist that listens to your likes and dislikes about how you like yourself in make-up and someone that you’re comfortable with. Having your bestie do your make up on the morning of your wedding can not only be stressful for you if you hate it but it can stressful for her also because she can’t relax and enjoy the time with you.

Q: What things should a bride look for, look at, when selecting a makeup artist?
A: It’s always a great idea to read reviews and go off of other recommendations from ladies that have already walked down the aisle. Don’t be shy to ask your artist a bunch of questions or if you need to get together for another trial to try a new look that you saw on Pinterest. Who you choose to be part of your beauty team is just as important as which venue, photographer and dress you wear. The investment you’re making in all of these things is peanuts compared to what your bridal beauty will cost but is untimely going to give the biggest impact. Everyone will notice how glowing and happy you look but a bad make up job is something you’ll have to look at forever. “If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait until you hire an amateur”

Q: What is the one thing a bride should splurge on when booking with you? 

A: Splurge on a facial treatment or two and brow waxing before the big day. This is fantastic not only for the health of your skin but a great way to pamper and prep your complexion for better results when the time comes to have your make up done. Also, Schedule your trial run! It’s a great time with your artist to plan your wedding day look so that there are no surprises on the wedding day. Trials are the time to try a few looks, address skin care concerns, test the longevity of the make-up throughout the day AND feel gorgeous. I tell all my brides to try and schedule their trial for their dress fitting, bridal shower or special night out!

Q: If you had a client who had endless funds what unique ideas would you offer them?

A: If a money tree landed in a Brides back yard I would recommend her to pay for her bridesmaids and mothers bridal beauty. I think it’s a lovely gesture, because who wouldn’t want to look lovely! Besides having hair and make-up services on location, I would have a masseuse there for chair massages and a manicurist for chip free nails too. Having a monogramed bag with a LL gift certificate so they know beauty services were from you and a lip gloss to touch up with throughout the night. That way your girls feel gorgeous and they can spend all day taking care of you and touching up for photos!

Q: What is something you wish all of your clients knew, or a certain thing you wish all of your clients would do to make working with them easier?
A: Something that I would want all of my clients to know is that as part of their beauty team I am there to work with them. Not to do what I want. I want a Bride to feel and look so gorgeous on her wedding day and when she is in my chair that she breaths and takes a moment to take it all in.  

Makeup artist can make the difference, not only in how you look but also in how you feel, so put that on your list of things to do, SOON and get yourself "wedding ready" before your wedding day!  Thank you to Lindsay London for her time and expertise!

Happy Planning!

www.alleventsplanned.com 

Very Basic Explanation of RSVP Etiquette (for everyone who has forgotten)

"If you’ve sent an RSVP saying you’ll be at the event, you are obligated to go. If something better or more interesting comes along after you’ve agreed to attend the first event, too bad. Cancelling an RSVP without a good reason is bad form and rude, so if you do this, don’t expect the host to ever invite you to anything again."
Debbie Mayne, About.com Guide
http://etiquette.about.com/od/Notes/a/Rsvp-Etiquette.htm

Here is how to RSVP-
1- Receive RSVP in mail
2- Open and review date/time/location of event
3- Review calendar for availability 
4- Respond accordingly 
5- Attend event that you RSVP'd for, regardless of whether something better, different or more fun comes along.

The response time for RSVP's is 24 hours.  Yes, I know that most people are shocked to hear that but yes, 24 hours.  If you review the instructions above, you'll note that these task should only take about 2 minutes, so 24 hours isn't unreasonable.  

We all know if we are/are not available for something by looking at a calendar and reviewing our obligations. It really is that simple.  Even if the RSVP date is weeks away, you can respond sooner, I'm certain that your event host will be thrilled to hear from you sooner.  

Why and where did things go so wrong with people's ability to RSVP? 

Consider this- A bride is planning one of the biggest days of her life and she has thought enough to include you in this big day.  Why are you uncertain about attending?  Do you have an obligation?  Then, immediately and politely decline.  You don't have to give a reason but you certainly should give an answer.  

When a bride is planning her guest list she has to consider the money she is spending and she has considered that YOU were important enough to include, to pay for and to send an invite out to.  The invite alone cost anywhere from $5-$20 dollars, then she's agreed that you are important enough to pay anywhere from $50-$200 for your meal and possibly your guest.  Considering how much she values your attendance, you should make this a priority.  

Now that you've managed to say yes, you do have to show up.  On the day of the event, the money has been spent, the seat, the arrangements and the settings are all there, ready for you.  You can have no valid excuse (outside of illness, death and unexpected work obligations...read that again OBLIGATIONS) to not attend.  

If you had a hair appointment scheduled, would you miss it?
If you had a golf tee time with a group of friends, would you just skip out on it to stay home?
If you had a doctors appointment, would you just ignore it as it approached?

Did you answer no to any of these questions? Well then you obviously know how to prioritize and stick to a schedule and you have no excuse for missing someone's big day.

So, go through your mail, RIGHT NOW, find any invites you have been putting off responding to and sit down with your planner and decide.  If the person who has invited you isn't important enough to make a commitment to, then say no now and don't waste their time.  

Let's bring back the dying art of common decency, politeness and prompt responses to request from friends and family.  

Happy Planning!

www.alleventsplanned.com 

Budget Tracking made Fun!

There are 100's of forms, sheets and documents for keeping track of your budget as you go through the planning process but none as adorable and easy to use as this one!  

http://contentstaging.com/wedding-planning-checklist-infographic/

This might be the first thing that was created to make spending money fun!!

Happy Planning!
www.alleventsplanned.com 

Wedding Wisdom Wednesday- Plan Ahead

Before you go anywhere or do anything with your wedding, PLAN AHEAD!  Talk to people that have recently planned their weddings, find out what they know, what they want to share and what they wish they hadn't done!  Before meeting with each vendor, research them online and get to know what you want to ask before meeting.  Going in blindly will only cost you money and waste time during your meetings!  If you really want the best way to cover all your basis, start your plans with a Wedding Planner!  

www.alleventsplanned.com 

WWW- Wedding Wisdom Wednesday- Budget

Budget-
Discuss and review your budget BEFORE you ever meet with any vendor.  If you only want to spend $100/table for each centerpiece, know that before you meet with you florist and share that with them.  This way you don't end up seeing centerpieces you don't want to splurge on and your florist knows the budget to work with.  It may seem simple but many people will go into a meeting with a vendor and tell them they don't know how much they should spend and leave it up to the vendor.  This is difficult for the vendor because they then have no idea how to plan and then they end up either disappointing the client or overwhelming them.  

Things Always Go Wrong.

I can't claim to have just learned this in 2010 but I definitely found out that no matter how long you have to plan and no matter how many planning meetings you manage, something will always go wrong.  Once you accept that, it will make your life easier.  Brides, you'll be able to relax knowing that something that will go wrong, will be covered by your planner.  Planners, you'll stay on your toes, knowing that when something inevitably goes wrong, you'll be ready for it.  


Well, what could go wrong, you ask?  Anything.  There is a never ending list of things that can go wrong.  Different venues represent different complications.  Different vendors mean different personalities to work with, which means LOTS of different things.  Different Brides will always mean new styles of planning, different levels of planning and different needs from your planning process.  While all of that information doesn't help you to KNOW what will go wrong, it at least lets you know that there are SO many areas you have to cover when working on a wedding, so you have to be detailed to be safe.  


For new wedding planners, this is where you lack based only on not having the experience with all of the different people, places and things but it still doesn't mean you can't do a good job, you just have to be even more detailed and more prepared.  


For experienced wedding planners it means that you always have to be prepared and there is no such thing as being totally certain of how to run any wedding.  You'll always have issues, but the more experience you have the easier things are to handle, the more likely you are to expect things and the calmer you'll be, when things do come up.


During this year, things came up that I can say I just found to come from out of left field.  After almost 10 years in the event industry, you'd think that I'd expect anything but that's just not possible.  You'll never be able to expect everything.  You can be prepared for anything but being "ready" for everything is unrealistic.  If you are hiring a planner that is claiming to know it all/done it all and they are insisting your event will be PERFECT, you might want to reconsider this person as they clearly have never worked a wedding.  


However, as a planner my job is to make it "seem" like the event went perfect.  The greatest comment that client's leave (and you'll find this type of comment on any good planners feedback page) is saying that "if anything did go wrong, they didn't know."  You never want them to know, you never want to stop any part of their day to seek them out for help, assistance or questions.  A good planner has to know that and be prepared to handle anything.  That's why you always want to have plenty of planning meetings as well as lots of documentation that review all of your details, timeline, setup and expectations.  


Okay, so you've been waiting for examples and I'll give you a few.


My classic example from one of my earlier weddings was hands down the best example I have when I'm asked about fixing a difficult situation.


A May wedding was being planned and due to the amount of rain, I asked the tent vendors to setup the tent a week early so we were sure that the reception ground had time to dry.  They setup the tent and we had a long week of time that the reception area should have been drying.  Well, when we went to setup the wedding, the staff was setting up tables and hurrying along to get the chairs up, linens on and settings out before the florist arrived.  Halfway through setup, we realized half the tables were "crooked" and I asked the staff to go back and setup again.  Well, come to find out that the week of drying, hadn't really dried anything out.  The ground was soaked, wet and mushy and the tables were sinking into the ground.  There was NO indoor space available so we had to work with the outdoor swamp space.  We ended up having spare wood planks for the  fire-pit that we had at an even the night before.  We broke them up and used them under each leg, of each table to stop the sinking.  The tables stayed up, but halfway through the event, everyone was covered in mud. Thankfully, it was a great group and most of them ended up barefoot and dancing through the night.  The bride had no idea the tables were sinking, that they had sunk into the ground at one point and she just enjoyed her time. 

There was really no way to be ready for that and had the wood not been in the truck, I'm not exactly sure what we would have done but now I know.  If this were to happen again, we'd know what to do.  Hopefully, it doesn't happen again.  Hopefully and now I know that a week isn't long enough to dry out a field.  Lesson learned.  


Other, shorter examples.
Problem- DJ not showing up (this situation proved that you should always take your planners recommendations, NOT use someone that you "found" that is "cheap)
Solution- Call vendors in the are and find a DJ available that evening, offer to pay them LOTS of money and have them show up, on time and ready to play the music that is on the music list that the planner SHOULD have on hand.  


Problem- Bride realizes the garter she had is lost and now she has nothing for the garter removal ceremony.
Solution- This is an easy one as you should always have a backup for everything in your "wedding emergency kit."


Problem- Limo service leaves hotel with all of your wedding guests, except Great Grandma and Grandpa.  
Solution


So, those are just a few, but the list is endless.  There is usually something that happens at each wedding that makes you, the planner, realize how lucky the bride was to have you there.  Sometimes, they never know, but that's the point.  


Happy Planning!  

A Bad Vendor is a Bad Vendor

There really is no way around this concept.  If you are a bad vendor, you can't be anything else.  Now I'll clarify as to what I consider a "bad" vendor so that we aren't having too many ideas floating around but the main thing is, you can make excuses but bad is bad.

My biggest issue would be clients that book, then make excuses for these bad vendors.  You (client) need to understand that if there are issues with the quality of service in the beginning, there will be issues the entire time.  If you think it stressed you out while you were planning your wedding, wait til your wedding day when you are already stressed out enough.  I want people to expect more from their vendors.  This is a big day, a big deal and you are typically paying a decent amount of money, so expectations are expected. 

Things I've heard from Brides that absolutely make me want to cringe-

"I've booked a photographer, and they have great photos, they are just SO busy they don't have time to return calls"

"I've booked a cheap limo service, it really is a great deal.  They haven't sent a contract, even though I've asked for one a few times, but I can't pass up a good deal."

"I found this great catering company but they insist that they never have been asked to do a tasting before, so we aren't going to have one before our wedding day."

"I saw this band play at a local bar and their music is awesome but they claim they don't do contracts, they will just show up as requested, I'd feel better with a contract, but they said they never do them."

"You should meet this amazing makeup artist I found.  She's kind of short with me sometimes but she's so busy (because she's so good) that I totally understand she's just stressed."

"We did an engagement shoot with this photographer and she really didn't listen to us, or do the photos we wanted, but I'm hoping she will be better on our wedding day, she's been in the business so long, I know she'll do a great job."

Really people?  I have actually had these things said, out loud by grown adults that would probably never allow this type of bad service from any other type of vendor but for some reason on wedding days, people just get uncomfortable with confrontation.  Maybe it is because you already have SO much going on and you are just happy to have decisions made, but let me tell you, it will be something you'll regret in the long run. 

This is the most basic statement I can make
If service is bad at the start, it WILL NOT get better once you give someone a deposit, it WILL NOT get better as you get more nervous about your wedding day.  Deal with it now, while you can.

Am I saying to have insane expectations of your vendors.  Absolutely not.  There are time when a vendor is going to take a day longer to return your call than you wanted, or they might forget a small detail when they send you your contract.  These things are NOT what I'm referring to.  I'm referring to the quality of service you get, the care that they show, the respect that they give you.  I would rather work with a new, inexperienced, young vendor that is desperate to do a good job, than an expensive, high-end vendor who things that their reputation is what sells them so they don't bother with anything else. 

It isn't always bad but if I can tell you, a few of those brides that didn't take my advice to deal with their issues, had worse problems in the long run, that I then, fixed at the last minute all the while trying not to let them stress out about last minute difficulties.  Of course, that's my job, so if you have a planner, you should be safe but at the same time, if you have a planner and choose not to take their advice you are probably better off just not having a planner.

The limo company, that didn't send a contract....
Never showed up.

The rude makeup artist.......
Did the wrong colors/makeup application for the client.

The experienced photographer......
Missed all of the shots the couple had specifically asked for.

Not all of these incidents were with my clients.  Some were with friends who told me about their wedding issues after their wedding.  (Being a friend does not automatically make you a wedding client but being a wedding client does tend to make you a friend)

Not all of these issues ended poorly.  The catering company who "didn't do tastings" had wonderful food on her wedding day.  Although, the fact that they wouldn't do tastings just made her whole wedding planning process more stressful than it would have been had she just gone with a company that made her feel comfortable.

I'm not suggesting you become a Bridezilla.  That will work backwards in the sense that you will end up not being able to work with GOOD vendors because they won't want to deal with YOU being rude and awful to them.  (Side Note: No, I haven't ever worked with a Bridezilla, and I hate the term)

So, think now....are you making excuses for your bad vendor?  Are they causing you more stress than you would like from someone you are paying?  If so, reconsider.  Sometimes it is even better to lose your deposit with them, then it is to be worried that they won't do a good job.  Don't know how to manage that, email me, call me and I'll be happy to help you handle the situation.  I get emails on a weekly basis from people who aren't sure what to do about their bad vendor.  Sometimes the vendor isn't bad, the communication between the two of them is just mixed up and other times, I hope to think that I helped save them from a mini-crises on their wedding day by stopping a bad vendor before they made a mistake.

Good luck and Happy Planning!
www.alleventsplanned.com

The Slow Season

Well, where do I even start.  The season is slowing down and my time is freeing up.  What is happening at this point though, is that people who want to get married next year, want to meet now to plan.  So to consider this "slow season" is a bit of a misrepresentation of what is going on. 

Wedding Shows start at the beginning of October and run through February.  If you choose to market your company that way, the timing is fantastic.  I'm not a fan of wedding shows for Wedding Planners.  If you want a Wedding Planner you find one, but you don't just see the service and decide to invest $1000 in someone you never considered having work with you prior to a wedding show.  That's just my call, they may work for others but I'm not sold.  Of  course, anything to get your name out is a good idea, so if you have it in the budget for your marketing, then go for it.

Clients start coming in during wedding season and keep coming through March.  It seems a rush of people get engaged around Christmas/New Year's Eve so you can always expect that rush of emails/calls around your holiday time.  You don't get a break when you are a Wedding Planner, usually the most important dates to other people are just as important to you.  It is your call whether you'll take calls on Christmas Day to book clients though. (I'm joking, sort of)

Another fun thing during slow season is catching up on your books.  That means finally logging all the miles from each appointment, event, rehearsal, networking event and lunch.  It also means finally entering all of the receipts from this year.  If you don't have a professional accountant, get one, this is NOT the time to figure things out on your own as there are too many "myths" about owning your own business and what you are and are not actually able to write off. 

Then there is blogging.  I'll finally be able to catch up on all things wedding.  I've learned so many things this wedding season that I can't wait to share.  I've even changed my ideas on somethings that I thought I knew everything about!  That's saying a ton since I thought I knew everything about everything!

I can't wait to get started, hope you are excited to start following along again.

Happy Planning,
http://www.alleventsplanned.com/

Secrets Behind DJ/Entertainment Company

This is one of the very first interviews that, when requested, I received back in under 24 hours.  If that doesn't say something about their service, follow up and ability, than nothing will.  I have followed them on Facebook and have had the opportunity to learn more about what an amazing company they are through their blog and emails.  I'm so excited to present secrets behind DJ/Entertainment by Something New Entertainment.

Here is a little bit on Something New Entertainment-
"At Something New Entertainment, we know that your event is special. We know that like each couple, each wedding is unique, and we want to help you make your celebration your own while ensuring that your reception runs smoothly. We eliminate the worries so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the party of your dreams!"

And a special thanks to AJ9 for all of the prompt responses to my request for an interview!  Here is a little bit about her!

AJ9 has worked professionally as a theatrical wardrobe and makeup mistress, shouldering many of the personal needs of theatrical stars from unwrapping cough drops and wiping noses to assisting with quick changes and solving wardrobe malfunctions in a pinch. She compares the high energy environment backstage to that of a wedding reception. "Your bride and your groom are like your leading lady and leading man. It's our job to make sure their evening goes smoothly by helping however we can while selecting music to keep the party going!"

And now for the interview you have all been waiting for!

Q: What is the biggest misconception about your industry?
A: That we play music, or, rather that we "just" play music. That's not to say we don't play music (of course we do!), but rather that there are so many more elements to a great disc jockey and master of ceremonies than pressing "play" or "making a few announcements." A great DJ/MC knows how to bring life to the party without becoming the center of attention, knows how to "read" the crowd to keep playing songs they'll love to keep your dance floor packed all night, has a professional, carefully-crafted microphone presence, and will take the time to make planning meetings to get to know you, your fiance, and your musical tastes in order to do all this with the music you love.

Q: What are a few mistakes brides make when choosing a DJ?

A: Oooh -- for me, this is the Apples to Apples question. Like many aspects of their wedding, most brides and grooms have never hired a DJ before, and they may never again. The service that we provide to them is just that -- a service and only a service. We don't give them a cake like their cakery, flowers like their florist, or images like their photographer (though we do hope to contribute to really, really great photos!). What we deliver is this amorphous thing that they can't see or touch, so sometimes it's difficult for brides and grooms to figure out how to compare us, so they turn to price-shopping. Unfortunately, we're not all the same -- it's not like buying a toaster. There are BIG, BIG differences from company to company, as well as from individual DJ to DJ, and it's just as important to consider the same elements used in hiring a cakery, florist, or photographer when hiring a DJ, considerations like experience, quality, knowledge, and style. Price should be the last thing on your mind, especially since many companies have packages at several different price points. Though of course it's important whether the price is right, in the end, it's much more important whether the DJ is right, and a professional company will definitely not be your lowest bidder.
Q: What things should a bride look for when hiring a DJ?

A: A bride and groom should look for someone who is able to help them crystallize and execute a vision based on them -- not whatever the "standard" is or whatever they "usually" play. It's your day, and it should be about you, but we know it's hard to come up with the right questions to ask yourself to get there! That's where we come in. Last year, I heard some wedding guests whisper to each other as they were leaving "that was so much fun, and it was so Jim and Kate!" Best compliment I have ever received!
Q: What is one of the worst things that can happen when booking a DJ?

A: We have fairly-frequent requests for brides and grooms to have a "swing-by" where they stop in to another event to see their DJ in action. Just remember -- if you get a swing-by to someone's event where the DJ's time and attention is divided between you and the wedding he or she is working -- it's likely that someone or maybe more than one someones will be stopping by your reception for the same. We host periodic public performances (and of course you're always welcome to visit us on the Goodtime III) so that couples can have the opportunity to see us in action.
Q: What is the worst story you have heard about a mistake someone in your industry has made, anyone, ever?
A: Of course straight-up not showing up, not bringing any equipment, wearing a tuxedo T-shirt or something equally inappropriate, doing something tacky to call unnecessary attention to him or herself, playing songs off the "do-not-play" list I'm sure are all on the "biggest fears" list for most brides and grooms, but all of these problems stem from a greater problem: preparation. The biggest mistake any company can make is in not adequately training their staff to learn to avoid these situations to begin with and to troubleshoot if they do occur. Something New has an Apprentice training program to seek out an nurture new talent. Successful Apprentices advance to Assistant DJs, and successful Assistant DJs advance to full DJ/MCs. I come from a teaching background, so we actually use a written curriculum that I produced which emphasizes vocal tone, diction, timing, musical styles and history, sound theory, mood, crowd-reading, electrical/equipment design and setup, etc. sound theory hands on shadowing
Q: If a client had endless funds what unique idea/service or products would you offer them?

A: Lighting, and specifically uplighting, hands down. Oh my gosh, I love uplighting! It is just the ultimate eye-candy, as far as I'm concerned! We do have smaller packages starting out with just a few fixtures to add accents around the head table or in another key location, but a full-coverage design can transform a space in ways that are really and truly amazing. Justin has worked professionally as a lighting designer and technician for some pretty big-time stuff, too -- at venues like Blossom, Tower City (or whatever it's called this year, ha ha), and the late Carousel Dinner Theatre, and he's quite an artist with the lights. All of our lighting is cutting-edge, technology-wise, and uses light emitting diodes (commonly known as LEDs). They look fantastic, and they're "green;" they use dramatically less energy themselves, plus, they don't get hot, so additional energy is saved on the venue's air conditioning system, too. This also eliminates the very real risk of dangerous burns and fire that the cheaper, older lights that are available to DIYers, which are very, very hot. Another advantage of our uplighting serviceis that we have the capability to create amazing intelligent lighting designs for you using advanced computerized DMX technology -- meaning that the specific colors and intensity of the lights can change over the course of the evening. For example: one of my favorite effects is to simulate the sunset within the room. Over the course of Cocktail Hour and Dinner, as the sun sets, the lighting changes smoothly and gradually from orange or yellow to blush, to maroon, to mulberry, and to finally to purple, just like the sky! A very subtle effect, but powerful.
Q: What is the one thing bridal clients should Review in contracts with their DJ?

A: The basic stuff, of course -- when, where, and how much -- but, also, if you've requested a specific person, any additional services you've requested, and any additional costs. A contract is a promise made to protect you, so know your recourse if the terms of the contract are not met, and make sure to get a copy with the signature of the company representative (preferably the owner) for your own records.
Q: What is the one thing you wish all of your clients knew when working with you?

A: Did you know St. Louis Bride and Groom Magazine conducted a poll and that more than 80% of wedding guests surveyed said that what they remembered most about a wedding was the entertainment? That's how important your DJ is, and we're ready and eager to live up to that demanding role. I think it's easy to underestimate the amount of time your DJ puts in to your event. It's not just the five hours your reception lasts, it's also an hour setting up, and hour tearing down, probably an hour or more travelling to and fro, an hour making special preparations with regard to grooming and dress including drycleaning, ironing, etc. Multiply all of those by two to count for the Assistant DJ, as well., plus the DJ/MC also holds at least two planning meetings and conducts several hours of music research to prepare a library of selections that fit into the bride and groom's stated musical preferences.
 
Well, that interview says it all!  They are incredible and obviously very passionate about what they do.  If that's what you look for in your DJ, then go on over and book Something New Entertainment for your wedding.



In the meantime,
Happy Planning,

http://www.alleventsplanned.com/