UrDreamPlanner's Wednesday Knowledge: Selecting Wedding Colors!

Let's talk colors combinations! One of my favorite things about planning a wedding is learning the colors a couple has chosen. Is it going to be "Fuschia, Brown & White" or "Candy Apple Green, Teal & Red", etc? Whichever color combo they share, I always say, "That's great!" My "that's great", comes from the heart. I truly believe that every color combo can work, especially if you add a great accent color to the mix. As a Wedding Planner, I enjoy the challenge of showing just how great and unique the couple's color combo is!

Bride wanted two colors the Mothers could wear...so I suggested, light & dark grey. 

This board is displaying on the color choices not an attire suggestion. 

When selecting your wedding colors...

1. Select at least 3 and no more than 4.
2. Include an accent color (An accent color is a color that is used to break up or highlight the combination of the others you have chosen. It makes a HUGE subtle difference!!)
3. Find colors that represent you & your Fiance.
4. Do research on the different shades of the color you desire. (There are many shades of every color..including white and black!)
5. Use online inspiration to find color combos displayed in art, food, clothing, jewelry, etc. 
6. Don't be afraid of color!
7.  When you find your exact colors, find a tangible swatch of each. (This allows you to get the exact colors you want for your wedding. Every company does not use the same color grid. Swatches are essential, when it comes to color & design!)

Having a great color combo makes a wedding that more exciting. Color, when used correctly, can make a drastic statement at the wedding. 

 This Bride wanted an "accent" color to the Cherry Red & Sage Green. I suggested she use Eggplant to highlight the colors she had already chosen. This was for a Destination Wedding, so I added this boarder too!

Color Suggestion:

When working with dark bold colors...choose a light, softer accent color.

When working with light soft colors...choose a dark, bold accent color.

"Blending is great for applying makeup, not choosing wedding colors. You want to make sure all the colors you select are seen!"

The key to making a great color combo is selecting colors that make sense to you. It's almost like you should have that "ah-ha" moment. Don't pick colors for everyone else...pick colors for you! Be true to yourself.

Talk To Me:

What made you pick the colors you did? Did you love the colors you picked or did you want to change them constantly? Was finding the perfect colors easy or hard? Share any "color selecting" tips you may have with our readers. Share your experiences below in the comment zone! :-)

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Sincerely,

Wedding Diets "Do Not" Include Feeding Tubes!!!

Hello! If you noticed there was no Wednesday blog post and well that's because we moved it to Thursday! Hope you don't mind and you do continue to keep reading!! 

Now onto a very, very, very important & serious issue!!! 

"Brides using a feeding tube to lose 20 pounds in 10 days???"

This is NOT okay, at all, never! 

Dear Brides,

Please know that you ARE beautiful. Your fiance is marrying you because he also knows that you ARE beautiful inside and out. Dieting is a tricky road to enter and most times require a plan that is kept up for a long duration (way longer than 10 days). Know that your Wedding Day, which is uber important, special and one of a kind; is one day! Your marriage however; which is the reason for Wedding Day, is meant to last for years and years and years!!! Do not endanger your body to loose weight, get fit or be in the best shape. 

Brides, know that there is a healthier way to look and feel your best on Wedding Day. Create a 3 month plan that involves: eating the 5 food groups and in proportioned sized and an exercise plan that you can do at least 3 days out of the week. Everyone's body is different and needs to have a plan that fits their body type and lifestyle. Do this plan with your Groom and/or Bridal party. Get others involved and make it fun!!

I do hope that you know you ARE beautiful and this "feeding tube diet" is NOT the way to go!

Sincerely,

A Concerned Wedding Planner! :-(

P.S. Diets this extreme have harsh side effects. Be Careful!! ;-)

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Dear Groom & Supporting Family Members,

Pay attention to your beautiful Bride. Assure her and reassure her that she is beautiful inside and out. If she desires to get more fit for Wedding Day, guide her to a healthy path this will not endanger her life! There are times to mind our business and there are times to be nosey when it comes to family. This is a time to be nosey, ask questions and step in!!! 

Dieting, again is a tricky road to go down. A support team is suggested to keep the Bride motivated and focused. Over dieting, exercising, etc is not healthy. Help your Bride stick to her plan. Offer to run or walk with her...Cook healthy meals together, etc. Most importantly: GET INVOLVED!! This "feeding tube diet" is bound to take a life, let it not be your Bride's life! 

Wedding Planning is stressful and as woman we tend to be way to hard on ourselves when it comes to our image. Let her know she is beautiful. Be nosey..she will thank you for it later! :-)

Sincerely,

Your Wedding Planner Friend! :-D

If you haven't heard about the "feeding tube diet" click the following to learn more. 

Feeding Tube Diet Risks!

 Feeding Tube Diet - Fox News Insider!

Talk To Me:

What are your thoughts on this? Are you Pro or Con? Why or Why not? Do you have a dieting experience that you can share?? Was it good or bad? Any advice to share that other readers, bloggers, Brides, Pros etc can benefit from please leave a comment below!! Let's chat about this serious topic!! :-)

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Sincerely,

  

5 Ways "NOT" to be a Bridezilla!!!

Today's post is for the Bride that is planning her wedding and beginning to feel overwhelmed, but does not want to become a Bridezilla. Have you seen the show? Bride's are yelling at their friends, their parents and even their fiance!! Being a Bridezilla happens for one main reason: STRESS!!!

Here's 5 Ways "NOT" to be a Bridezilla:

• #1) Hire an Experienced Professional Wedding Planner! ;-) {If you know me and know that I know Wedding Planning, then you knew this would be #1 on the list!! Having a Professional Wedding Planner that matches your needs and wants alleviates a lot of wedding planning stress and allows you to have an enjoyable wedding day!}

• #2) Make a Spa Date! {The Spa is very relaxing..take a Saturday morning with just you and your hunny enjoy a couples spa/brunch date!! You can talk wedding or just talk about life..I will leave the convo choice up to you, but whatever you decide it needs to be relaxing.}

• #3) Keep a binder! {Whether you have a Wedding Planner or not you should have some kind of check-off list that will keep you in the know and on schedule. Planning a wedding takes a lot of work so this organizational binder will be a stress savor!!}

• #4) Have a Girls Night Out! {Take all your bridesmaids and have a girls night out! Tonight, no wedding talk is allowed. Take this time to laugh, get dressed up, get to know each other and relax! This is crucial for the ladies because to often I see friendships crash and burn because of the stress of planning a wedding.}

• #5) Hire an Experienced Professional Wedding Planner!!! {YES! I am inserting this again, because it truly is that important and no longer a luxury but now a necessity to have an amazing planning experience and most importantly a stress free happy wedding day! You, your fiance, friends and family all deserve and want to enjoy the wedding day..so leave the frenzy & stress of wedding day to the pros and truly enjoy!!}

There is no need to be a Bridezilla! Being mean and nasty to those around you that only wish to help you is just not okay. Stress is natural and does come with planning a wedding. However, there are many ways to alleviate that stress like the suggestions above! Take time to relax and truly enjoy the planning process and have a memorable wedding day.

To stay up to date with Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC on twitter use hashtag: #BBDllc!! 

Happy #WeddingWednesday!!

Talk To Me:

Did you have a Bridezilla moment when planning your Wedding? Fellas, family & friends did she have a Bridezilla moment when planning the Wedding? How was the situation handled? What do you recommend to a Bride planning her wedding now? Share other ways wedding planning stress can be alleviated! Share your story and comments below. Let's chat!! :-D

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Sincerely,

"Dear #Brides, Your #Groom has Spoken!!"

I have written this post today to help and guide all my awesome Brides out there planning fabulous weddings! Today is all about what your groom is really trying to say to you. Don't read to fast because this is going to be a short little message!

Dear Brides,

     Congratulations on getting engaged to the man you love. He is the man who completes you and makes everything right in the world. He always listened to your every word and gave advice or maybe he just nodded. Brides, ask yourself these questions: Is my groom into fashion, music, food , etc? What has he always talked about prior to engagement when we were just two love birds getting to know each other? Does he enjoy watching "My Fair Wedding" or would he rather watch football and let you and the girls enjoy all of that? When it's time to go shopping is he the kind of guy that goes with you, gives you the money and says call up your girls, does he surprise you and buy you things? Brides, I want you to think about all these questions and then think about your Groom. The man you love so much that has now asked you to be his wife. I want you to think about your wedding planning process. Are you frustrated by his lack of participation in picking out the colors, desserts, themes, etc..etc..etc? Are you nagging him (yes I said nag because ladies we NAG!) and constantly saying "you never this"..and getting mad when you ask about a color combo and all you get is "idk..pick what you like!". Now Brides..I want you to sit down and close your eyes..find a mellow happy place in your mind and think about the groom your engaged too..is he the same groom that you fell in love with before he was your groom? Is he a give you money and have you go shopping with your girls kind of man..did he constantly surprise you during your relationship??? I say all this Brides, to say that just because your darling fiance has taken the big leap of commitment and asked the question you've been dying to hear..he is still the same man. Brides, I know you have been planning this day in your mind..but learn to listen when your groom speaks. He is not going to change his behavior just because the two of you are saying I Do...and why would you want him to because isn't the man who proposed, the man you fell in LOVE with!? So first and foremost I am so sorry that my short message..now very long letter has gotten so long. Second..learn and listen to your Groom's behavior because he is helping you. He is giving you what you want the only way he knows how. Cut him some slack and enjoy the moment with him. I promise you the moment he does the opposite of what he has always done..the things that you fell in love with..it will send you into a frenzy and you will wish you let him just be him! So again..listen and hear what your groom is saying. Enjoy the planning process and be happy..after all this day is about the love that the two of you have for each other!

Sincerely,
UrDreamPlanner ( A caring Wedding Planner)
xoxo

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Brides & Grooms feel free to reply back: 

Dear,

 UrDreamPlanner (A caring Wedding Planner)...

I would love to hear your thoughts and share in convo with you all!! 

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Sincerely,

::Week 2::Love, History & Heart!

 :::: LOVE :::

I am super excited that Valentine's Day is tomorrow and that this is the month of LOVE! So here is an awesome Valentine's Day proposal!! 

I would of did the same thing probably and dove for the ring!!! LOL I love her reaction!!

Recently engaged?? Don't just plan your Wedding..Enjoy planning your Wedding! Hire a Wedding Planner!

::: HISTORY :::

Here are some great Black History Month Facts. Click the link to find these and read more!!

• On February 10th in 1964, After 10 days of debate and voting on 125 amendments, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by a vote of 290-130. The bill prohibited any state or local government or public facility from denying access to anyone because of race or ethnic origin. It further gave the U.S. Attorney General the power to bring school desegregation law suits. 

• In 1996, Penn's Baccalaureate Speaker was the Right Reverend Barbara Clementine Harris, a Philadelphian who was the first woman ever to become a bishop in the Anglican Communion. 

• Birthday of William Felton Russell, better known as "Bill" Russel, he was player-coach of the Boston Celtics basketball team in 1968 and 1969. Russell was born in Monroe, Louisiana in 1934 on February 12th. 

• The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery, was adopted by the 38th Congress. Ratification was completed December 6, 1865. Also in 1870, Jonathan Jasper Wright was elected to the South Carolina Supreme Court.

::: HEART :::

Here is a touching poem about Heart Disease. I hope it inspires you to check yourself and motivate the women in your family to get checked as well.

A Woman’s Heart

by Nancy Perez

Her heart is like a pocket

Stitched deep within her chest

Inside she stores her treasures

Some are broken, many blessed.

In her heart she has carried

Much joy and much sorrow

With sadness and gladness

She awaits each new tomorrow

In that heart, there were burdens

That seemed would never cease

Until one day, it grew sadder

It developed Heart Disease

Now the woman who possesses it

Has one new heart’s desire

To share with you the “Heart Truth”

To enlighten and inspire

“Be your own Advocate”

You’ll hear her confession,

“Don’t let anyone tell you,

It’s just indigestion.”

“You’re young, you’re a woman,

What else could it be?”

That’s what she was told

And now - just look and see

She has a tiny treasure,

Placed there- close to her heart

It’s a stent and it has given

Her life a fresh new start.

She’s a woman; she’s a mother,

Sister, daughter and a wife

She’s also a Best Friend to

All the women in her life.

My best friend, Lois Trader has written down her story to share with you the “Heart Truth”. To God be all the Glory! 

You can read this poem here: Click Here to Read!

I hope today's Love, History & Heart was inspiring in some way. Feel free to leave a comment and share with a friend! :-)

Missed last Monday's Week 1: Love, History & Heart?? <-- Check it out!!!

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Sincerely,

Wedding Love Recap :: Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC

Love is seen most when Wedding Day comes. The bride to be is glowing...the groom hanging with his guys. It's a great atmosphere to be in as the Wedding Planner. Today's post is all about love and recapturing the moment. Meeting Normal & Bryan for the first time was truly awesome...such fun personalities! Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC was their Day of Coordinator and it was wonderful being able to tie together the loose ends and hard planning done by the Bride & Groom to assure this couple had a memorable Wedding Day.

Here's an Inspiration Board of the two love birds on wedding day. 

Mr & Mrs Norma & Bryan Lewis - June 10, 2011

The Amazing Vendors:

Day of Coordinator: Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC

Venue: Sea Oaks Country Club

Photographer: Kris Rupp Photography

Florist: Betina's Garden    

Stationary: Pinkberry Designs

Hair: Carlos Sanchez- 718-596-0201

Make-Up: Mariluz West

DJ: Darryl Barnett

Live Salsa Band: "Tipica Novel"

Follow us on Twitter @UrDreamPlanner

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Sincerely,

30 Day #Engagement Challenge!!!

Congratulations!!! He proposed and you screamed, cried, whispered, shouted, nodded.....YES!!! Engagements are such a joyous time! A time that should be cherished before diving into planning one of the greatest celebrations you will experience. Today's post is all about enjoying the moment or in this case the month! 

 Take the "30 Day Engagement Challenge!!!"

Take 30 days and enjoy being engaged. Planning a wedding is wonderful and memorable and prayerfully will only happen once since this is your one true love! However..there is dust behind all the glitter and sparkle of planning one of THEE best weddings that your family and friends will encounter!

Being Engaged means that you both are ready to take the next step in life. So for the next 30 days follow these simple steps that will allow you to slowly ease your way into planning an awesome, awesome planning experience.

Day 1 - Day 7

Tell the world! The first week is all about the excitement. The initial "Ahhhhh...I am engaged" by the female and the "Yea man I did it..lol" by the male". It is the big announcement that is made to any and all forms of social media, texts, phone calls, in-person visits and any other way you can think of announcing that your now one of the luckiest ladies in the world. This behavior is mainly (90%) done by solely female. The male version tends to happen in a huddle with the guys in the man cave over beer..some hot beats..silence..stares and joking about this is the only woman he will sleep with forever. LOL! Well that is how it is portrayed on movies anyway... So enjoy telling the world, but DO NOT PLAN A THING! Do not set a date! Do not call a vendor/cousin/sister/mother..etc and ask for anything!

♥♥♥  JUST RELAX & ENJOY THE MOMENT!!! ♥♥♥

Day 8 - Day 14

Let the fun begin! Clearly you both know each other becasue you have reached this level and are now engaged. Take the second week to enjoy each others company. Go out on an unusual date..some place you have never been. Do a challenge date..something that will make you have to rely on the other's help. 

Suggested Activities: Try A New Restaurant, Rock Climbing, Paintball..etc. Save the mushy dates for the end of the 30 days. Explore these activities just in case you will need to do them during the planning process when things start to get a little rough. That paintball practice will come in handy 8 months into wedding planning and your ready to eat your mate for dinner! It happens...but no matter what happens DO NOT PLAN A THING! Do not set a date! Do not call a vendor/cousin/sister/mother..etc and ask for anything! I'm serious just enjoy each other and your piece of mind!

♥♥♥ JUST RELAX & ENJOY THE MOMENT!!! ♥♥♥

Day 15 - Day 21

Get Romantic!! By this time the excitement is still there, but you have begun thinking about all the things you want for your big day! Take this time to be romantic. Go on a candlelit date whether on the town and at home. Great food, music and lighting will make any location romantic. You don't have to go far or spend a lot to enjoy! Check out one of my posts about how to have a 3 course romantic dinner for two for less than $30 bucks and it's in the comfort of your own home!!

Romantic Activities:

Leave little post-it notes for your mate to find!

Get dessert and read old poems and love letters that you wrote to each other!

Go dancing or Take a Cooking Class!

Do a half day brunch, lunch or dinner cruise and more!

Just enjoy and be romantic, but remember DO NOT PLAN A THING! Do not set a date! Do not call a vendor/cousin/sister/mother..etc and ask for anything! You don't need opinions right now.

♥♥♥ JUST RELAX & ENJOY THE MOMENT!!! ♥♥♥

Day 22 - Day 30

Prepare with Jokes..LOL! You are about to start planning a grand occasion. First things first..learn how to laugh! Let this last week be all about jokes, story telling and memories that you have together that make you laugh. Keep these in your memory bank for the planning road ahead. During this week tell each other a joke a day...go all out and send random text that you know will make the other person laugh. Humor is good for the soul and for planning a wedding! I know me and my love have tons of things that we laugh about...LOL I am laughing as I write this...he is so silly! Anyways..bring the kid out of you both. Smiling avoids wrinkles and laughing helps avoid the craziness of planning an awesome wedding!! This last week the same rules apply...DO NOT PLAN A THING! Do not set a date! Do not call a vendor/cousin/sister/mother..etc and ask for anything! I'm serious just enjoy each other and your piece of mind!

 ♥♥♥ JUST RELAX & ENJOY THE MOMENT!!! ♥♥♥

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

So now your 30 days are up and you are curious what to do...well you begin to prepare for planning a memorable journey together! As the new week starts I want you to begin to enter into planning mode. Think about your budget...wedding date..vision..desires..wants..needs! Take the next two weeks to have a serious talk with each other about what you want and how much dinero, bread, cash flow, MONEY..how ever you want to phrase it...you have to spend to get what you want! This discussion should happen before calling on a Wedding Planner.

Once you both are on the same page, do the next best thing you can do for you as a couple, your family members, friends, and most importantly your Wedding Day....HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER!!!

Wedding Planners are no longer a luxury, but a very much needed necessity. We are your eyes, ears, feet, brain..and more to help you enjoy the process. So interview a few Wedding Planners until you find one that fits your needs and personalty. 

For a limited time Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC is offering a "4 Day All Inclusive Jamaica Resort Honeymoon Certificate (airfare not included) to any couple that books a Partial or Full Service & Design Wedding Planning Package! Call 267-702-3037 or email info@beautifulbeyonddreams.com to set up a consultation and to learn more about this amazing offer!! :-D

Do know that you are more than welcome to take much longer than 30 days. When the time comes no matter how long you have been engaged..still take time before planning! 

Hopefully you enjoyed the read and again Congratulations to all the lucky ladies & gents out there taking the next step! :-D

Sincerely,

The Wedding Planner & The On-Site Coordinator--"Two Are Better Than One!"

Often times I read great blog posts, articles, statuses(on FB), tweets & more. Recently within the past week I've seen a surplus of comments related to "not needing a Wedding Planner because you have an On-Site Coordinator". This statement boggles my mind because it is a misleading thought that can ruin a Wedding Day!

This post is not to bash in any way, but to educate and inform! Don't get offended.

Let's begin...

As a Wedding Planner, I find that it is important to have a good relationship with the On-Site Coordinator at any venue. The On-Site Coordinator is great because he or she knows the ins & outs of it's own venue. The On-Site Coordinator has a list of preferred vendors that are associated with it's venue that will provide you with an amazing service to assure your wedding day goes smoothly. The On-Site Coordinator & The Wedding Planner should have a sound relationship because as a Wedding Planner you are stepping into their house. The rule that ALL Wedding Planner's should follow is to ALWAYS RESPECT the On-Site Coordinator's house (meaning the venue)!! The On-Site Coordinator is there to meet the Bride & Grooms needs while at the venue. The On-Site Coordinator tends to not be as involved in the planning process outside of the general wedding planning searching needs.

"I'm not a wedding planner but an onsite coordinator and caterer seems very impersonal..somebody who is providing a service but no feeling behind it...A coordinator really just organize the ppl and order of service but what about floral arrangements, various venue options, etc.. They are only there to advertise their employer not assist in the desires of the couple..#my opinion" -Jugga (Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC FB Fan!)

The Wedding Planner is the "Genie" of Wedding Planning! It is thee Wedding Planner that is truly there from beginning to end. Most Wedding Planner's will educate you, laugh with you, disagree to agree with you, cry with you, break-up family arguments with you, guide you, budget you so you have a life after the wedding day, fight for you (being your voice to make it happen) and so so much more! The Wedding Planner brings a personal touch that wakes up and greets you the morning of your wedding and stays with you all day until the car is all packed and everyone has driven off. Then the Wedding Planner will even return rentals for you while you are away on your honeymoon. Once you return the Wedding Planner is still there to assist you with sending out thank you letters, doing the name change process & more!

The Wedding Planner & On-Site Coordinator are both essential and crucially important to a successful Wedding Day. One without the other just doesn't make sense (this is mainly for a full service venue or a venue that does have an On-Site Coordinator...All other venue types without one is not related to this comment).  Together the Wedding Planner & On-Site Coordinator will work together to assure that each guests finds it's correct table, the bridal party are where they need to be when it is time for introductions, your cake topper is packed away safely so you can enjoy it on your 1yr Anniversary & more! The relationship between the two, again; is crucial. None the less...The On-Site Coordinator does NOT replace the Wedding Planner. 

"Why choose a Wedding Planner over a Onsite Coordinator? The answer is so easy…… A Wedding Planner is a mediator, consultant, sounding board, organizer, an artisan and a financial advisor all rolled into one package. When nerves are frazzled, they may even turn out to be a punching bag, “figuratively speaking.” A wedding planner can work with you from your initial engagement to the honeymoon departure. A Wedding Planner is there to guide you through the rough waves of wedding planning." -Justin S. Brown (CEO/President of Creations By Brown)

Many times the Wedding Planner becomes the On-Site Coordinator for the venues that do not have one. Mainly non-traditional locations (parks, community centers, FOP halls, etc). Therefore to replace your Wedding Planner with the On-Site Coordinator again, just doesn't make sense. If you cannot afford a full service Wedding Planner then bring some relaxation to the busy of planning a Wedding & hire a Month Of Coordinator, which most will provide their services 6 to 8 weeks prior to the Wedding Day. This provides you the ease of knowing the day you have been dreaming of for however long will be beautiful! Your Month of Coordinator will be able to bring your On-Site Coordinator up to date on anything that needs to be known. The Wedding Planner is the middle man, the go-to man, THEE MAN or WOMAN that makes your dream wedding a reality and keeps ALL vendors in the loop!

Dear On-Site Coordinators,

         Wedding Planner's do you respect you and understand that you are the head of your house. It is offensive when you inform clients that book your venues that they do not need a Wedding Planner because they have you! You are indeed misinforming them and potentially causing them undesired Pre-Wedding Day, Wedding Day and Post-Wedding Day stress. In the Wedding Industry it has been taught that planning a Wedding involves a team of vendors, one of those being The Wedding Planner. The Wedding Planner is here to help all vendors have a successful Wedding Day by making sure everyone stays on time, hence the very detailed timelines that are often produced and emailed out! The Wedding Planner wants to work with you and work together to assure a happy Bride, Groom, Parents & Guests. Working together is the main goal!

Sincerely,

The Wedding Planner

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear Brides & Grooms,

        Planning a Wedding is fun, exciting, life-changing, time-consuming, at times stressful, emotional and all around magical. The Wedding Planner & On-Site Coordinator wants to both provide you with a memorable Wedding Day. Do remember that the On-Site Coordinator is the coordinator for the venue, he or she will not be able to be by your side during the whole process. The Wedding Planner is there to guide you from beginning to end no matter the location. He or She will be there months before the Wedding and months after the Wedding! Always do your research and remember to hire a Wedding Planner, as he or she will work together with your On-Site Coordinator!

Sincerely,

The Wedding Planner

Planning a Wedding is absolutely amazing, but a lot of work! Don't get stuck in the stress of planning because you chose NOT to hire a Wedding Planner. Think about it! 

Do you have any success stories that you would like to share about your On-Site Coordinator & Wedding Planner?? Post your stories below in the comments section!! 

"Sharing is caring and it really is fun!" :-)

Sincerely,

Are You "Networking!!" or "Netwatching??"

Photo taken by: Photographer Unknown

 Me at ABC's Southern New Jersey networking event taken place at DFX Sound Vision!

(I'm wearing the big yellow bag and orange skirt :-D)

I love networking! I love to network! But for those that don't and maybe those that do you may or may not know what it actually is. Networking in my book can be defined as stepping out of your comfort zone to get to know another person with the goal of doing business in the future. Again this is just my definition...if you would like a more defined one, Please Click Here! This post is related to networking events vs one-on-one networking meetings.

Now when attending a networking event for the first time it can be scary! (I know from experience) It is recommend that you bring someone with you (well my recommendation) so that you are more comfortable maneuvering around the room. (if you don't know how to "maneuver the room" I will provide some tips on a later post!) Whether in a pair or alone it is crucially important that you attempt to say hello to everyone. This hello can be a simple wave & big smile from across the room, it can be a hand shake & big smile making it more personal, or it can mean sitting down at a table and passing out a business card after a few minutes of conversation all while wearing a big smile! As you can see, smiling is important...why?? "Well because you look more charming when you smile and people remember and rather engage with a smiling person who looks friendly then a serious person"

If you are completing this task solo it may take you a little longer, like attending 2 or 3 more networking events longer, but that's okay! Bravery comes in steps so take baby steps if need be. Once you've attended you a few you begin to make friends and that's where the fun begins!! 

Photo taken by: Mogul Photography

My wedding planner colleagues enjoying some cocktails at the I Do Brunch, a relaxing networking event for Wedding Planners! (Amani, Deidre, Sharnell, Me, Stephanie & LaTonya.)

(I had a virgin cocktail..the bartender said I looked like a baby..lol)

Networking is powerful and can lead to many open doors later down the road. However, some people attend networking events and "netwatch". Well what is "netwatching" you ask?? Netwatching is when you watch others network! (it's that simple) Like said before attending these type of events can be scary but you will get nowhere if you come in: go to the bar to grab a drink, find a table and hope that someone will come say hi (which some"one" more than likely will) as you watch the others attending laugh and putting on their brave faces while walking around the room. As a netwatcher you've handed out 0-3 business cards when there is a room full of people and you leave more scared of networking then when you arrived! 

When netwatching you are not stepping out of your comfort zone, instead your more than likely hoping noone comes over to the big empty table (seated for 8 ppl, but it's just you and a large centerpiece) to say hello. Netwatching means that you probably haven't practiced what you would say if someone came over and I am probably sure many networkers don't do this either. None the less, practice makes perfect and makes you more confident! So practice what you want others to know about you and it will make you 100% more confident as you walk into a room full of newbies & professionals who are coming together to network. Mustard up the courage to go from table to table and simply start by introducing yourself and then smile! Smiling makes everyone more relaxed, so always remember to smile and give out your business card!

"As a netwatcher, your watching others get ahead. Don't be a netwatcher..be a networker!"

So I don't overwhelm you this will be broken down into a three part series of "Netwatching", "Networking", & "Tips on being a confident networker". This three part series will give you more insight on how to network and not netwatch.

This series starts Friday!! So make sure you check back in so you don't miss anything!! 

Until then ask yourself this question... 

"Am I Networking or Netwatching"??
Share your story below, it just may help someone!

Sincerely,

Intern Kelsi Share's: Pros & Cons of Having A Planner!

Definite Pros

Planning an event can easily become a full-time job when you’re doing it by yourself. It takes someone who is highly organized and has an arsenal full of plans A-Z and 1 through infinity for when things go wrong because any experienced planner knows that anything that can go wrong will. Helping their clients avoid disasters and the stresses of them is an event planner’s specialty.

• Most planners have great personalities, which is why they are able to connect well with their clients and actualize their clients’ visions. They can become friends and confidants for the duration of the planning process as well as during and after the event.

• When it comes to budget most planners are very meticulous when it comes to staying within the range of a desired budget.  A planner can also help to save their clients money because often times they know vendors that do great work and are reasonably-priced and they are usually good negotiators and can receive discounts. 

• Hiring a planner can be more affordable than most people believe that it is. Most planners will even tailor their prices to their clients’ budgets as not to go over their clients’ budget. Without a planner you can drive yourself crazy as an event approaches but planners help alleviate the stress on their clients. The results are: a stress free day, a successful event, and memories that will last a very long time. The benefits of having a planner are well worth the cost of hiring one. 

 Do your research and make sure that the planner you choose is a good fit for you and your event!

 .............................................................................................................

Possible Cons

There are a few possible negatives potential clients can run into when dealing with some event planners. 

•  The most obvious would be working with a planner who is very hard to reach. The success of any event depends highly on how readily available an event organizer can make themselves to: the needs of their clients, conflict resolution, touching base with vendors regularly, and being proactive. Without these things the success of an event can suffer irreparably.

• Design and style differences can also cause a rift in the client planner relationship. Planning events is already stressful enough but added tension like opposing concepts between the client and the planner can make it worse. Most planners will just go with the age old saying, “The customer is always right.” Making sure client suggestions can be met and will be aesthetically and logistically favorable to the event as a whole. Some headstrong planners may, with or without realizing what they’re doing; ignore a client’s desires completely. Regardless of whether the event turns flawless if a client comes out of it feeling like their expectations for the event were not met, then ultimately the event was not successful.

• When a planner receives benefits for using specific vendors it is called a kick back or an incentive. Receiving an incentive from a vendor is not a crime but may be a disservice to the planner’s clients. In any situation the planner should choose the vendor that best fits the client’s needs.

Great job Kelsi on sharing the Pros & Cons! Readers, share your experience with a planner! What were the pros & cons of having one? Do Tell!! 

Sincerely,

Intern Aimee Share's: What Do Planner's Do?

"What Do Planners Do" PowerPoint is a presentation that portrays the basic idea behind the responsibilities an event planner takes part in.   

The first slide, above, is a simple look at the goal of a wedding planner.  The goal of a wedding planner always is the same; the planner’s job is to help the client, host or hostess with the planning process.  Even though the goal of a wedding planner is always the same, the planner’s job is ever changing from event to event, wedding to wedding!!  This is what makes planning exciting and rewarding. :-)

  

The second slide that is shown above gives a sneak peak at a few of the key components to planning.  Budget is the most important component to the planning process.  A sounding board is a close second behind budget!  If the planner is not going to be supportive and listen to the clients wants and needs, than forget it, find another planner!!  Organization is third as one of the most important key components and knowing the trends as a planner is the fourth most important component.  The following slide goes into more detail with each key component that is listed above.  

• The first and foremost important key component is the budget. Without a budget the client, as well as the planner, will not know which vendors to choose or what options the client will have.  

• The second most important key component is the sounding board.  The planner needs to listen to the client’s budget, wants, needs, vision and ideas of their special day.  This is such an important component and goes hand in hand with the budget.  Knowing and listening to the budget is the first step to begin planning this special occasion.  

• The third key component is organization.  Organization goes a long way in the planning industry.  The planner must know and coordinate multiple schedules and appointments with themselves, clients and vendors.  This will assure a smooth process in decision making as well as the day of the event. 

•  The fourth crucial key components are trends.  Knowing trends within the industry will help the planner and client create a tasteful, up to date, color coordinated event.  It always helps if the planner is up to date with the most current trends in the wedding and event industry.  This can assist the client with a vision and/or ideas!

All four key components are so crucial throughout the entire planning process.  They go hand in hand with one another through each step and help all the ends meet to create a beautiful event and memories!  

Great job Aimee, very well said. Readers what else do Planner's do? Give your input as well!! :-D 

Sincerely,

{Wednesday's Inspiration}::Wedding Etiquette Tip #2- Listen, We Care!

{Wednesday's Inspiration}::Wedding Etiquette Tip #2- Listen, We Care!

A wedding planner is hired by the couple to assure their day goes smoothly. We are there to be the eyes and ears for the Bride & Groom, but also for the bridal party and family members. Today's etiquette tip is for the bridal party. Although we are hired by the couple, we are also are here for you! 

Wedding Planners carry an emergency kit filled with items that are ready for any and every situation. If we suggest or give advice, "Listen because we care about your well being". I understand not taking the spotlight off of the couple, however we are only advising to make sure the unforeseen accidents don't occur. 

Wedding Etiquette Tip To Go:

(((Take advice given, as it is given to assure your well-being and we want to take care of you too.)))

<---- {Tuesday's Insight}::Wedding Etiquette Tip #1- Make No Assumptions

{Tuesday's Insight}::Wedding Etiquette Tip #1-Make No Assumptions!

{Tuesday's Insight}::Wedding Etiquette Tip #1-Make No Assumptions!

For the past three years I have worked and lead many weddings under Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC as well as for other local wedding planners in South Jersey and Pennsylvania. I have been hired and have hired others. Over these past couple of years I have truly learned the importance of not calling out when scheduled to work a wedding. It wasn't until I was my own boss and someone called out on me that I felt the real effect of looking for someone trained to cover a wedding. Not only does having adequate staff make great coverage, which is crucial; but your couple is also expecting a certain amount of staff to be present.

As an assistant consultant, intern, etc if you are scheduled to work a wedding don't assume nothing. Ask what time you need to be at the specific location for wedding day, attend the rehearsal so you can be introduced to the couple and the bridal party, and most importantly Do Not Call Out unless it is an Emergency! The lead planner will provide all the important information needed for you, however it is important to be in tune to the wedding at least a week prior.

Wedding Etiquette Tip To Go:

(((Do Not Assume Anything; Ask Questions!)))

<----{Friday's Spotlight}::Bougie Magazine

Everyone Has A Choice!

 Hello my fellow blogger's! I have pondered heavily about what I am about to post today. I've been in conversation with Wedding Pros and Non-Wedding Pros on this topic that I am about to present to you. I am writing this because it has been on my heart and I felt guilty about doing something that I believed in and I needed to share. I am prepared for some to agree with me and for many to not agree with me at all. But in the end Everyone Has A Choice!

Last month I received an inquiry to plan a same-sex Day of Coordination Wedding. I looked at the email as I knew what my response was going to be without even thinking twice....I Cannot do it. I thought long and hard on the most respectful and professional way to respond so that I do not offend anyone or be caught discriminating another person. 

The whole scenario went something like this:

Good Evening,

           My partner, (.....) and I, are looking to hire a Day-of coordinator for our civil union ceremony scheduled to take place in (...) on (....).

Sincerely,

(....)

My response went like this:

Hi (...),
I regret to inform you that (...) does not plan civil union ceremonies. I wish you and your significant other much luck finding the right planner.

Sincerely,
(...)

She kindly replied "Thank you" and we both went on with our lives. I thought over and over, did I reply correctly, was I offensive, should I have lied and just said I wasn't available??? I began to feel bad, but then let it go and thought it is okay. Yesterday however, the subject of not completing a service due to religious belief arose and so I thought about this couple. After being called judgmental and rude and unprofessional I really began to think..Oh No..What have I done? Did I really discriminate against this couple by being honest! Again, my thought on this whole thing is that "Every Has A Choice"!

So after a long day of ongoing conversation with Wedding Pros and Non-Wedding Pros, I felt horrible and just had to email this young lady back and apologize for offending her. Which went like this:

Hi (...),

I just wanted to write to you and say sorry if I offended you and your Fiance (...) in any way. That truly was not my intentions. I was speaking with a group of wedding pros and it made me think of you. So again, I am truly sorry if my response was offensive in any way. I hope your planning process has been fulfilling and stress-free!

Sincerely,
(...)

She replied back..

Hello (...),

Thank you very much for reaching out, but your comments were not offensive at all...just honest (which we can appreciate).  Planning has been great and we have found a planner that suits our needs.  Thanks again for your concern and sincerity.

 

  (...) and(...)

After getting her repsonse, I felt absolutely relieved..it was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders!!

So I say all this to say that "Everyone Has A Choice" In my opinon. I have to live by what I belive and if the law doesn't agree unfortunately I have to take that chance because the truth is I live for God and God is who I have to answer to at the end of the day. I truly do hope that I never experience a lawsuit or anything similar due to my religious beliefs. 

Everyone has A Choice..You have A choice...your not a bad person for saying no, just make sure you refer that indivudal to someone who can help. That is what I feel was my biggest mistake, not providing a referral. I have definitely learned a lot about myself going through this. I am happy that I can stand firm in my belief and be able to live with the consequences..whatever they may be. 

For I am a child of God and I live by his rules! 

Feel free to post how you feel on this topic. Again, Everyone has A Choice and even more Everyone will not agree with your choice. You have to make the decision to decide if you will follow your belief or follow the law.

This was not written to offend anyone or to put anyone on trial, etc. It was just a personal experience that I felt I should share with others who may have gone through something similar.

The Blogging Mission!!

Hello my fellow bloggers, I am on a mission to become a semi-daily blogger! Which means, I will blog (to start) three days out of the week! Due to my new business office hours, I will blog on Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday! 

The blog posts will consist of business related information, wedding & event related information, and just-because related information!  I am excited about this new tasks and have even put in place several ways I will successfully accomplish this task! I would love for your support in reading my blog and as you comment, leave your blog link so I can be sure to read yours too!!

This is the mission so I hope you enjoy!! 

Check back tomorrow for the first of many blogs!!

Wedding Planning Tip

You have gotten engaged and now have set a date! It is time to find the perfect group of vendors to make sure your day goes smoothly! When selecting vendors for the Big Day be sure to:

• Bring a list of questions to ask.
• Clearly state what you are looking for.
• Be honest about your budget.
• Leave knowing that you will be able to get what you want and need for your set budget. 

Once you meet with several vendors and find the one's that you love, be prepared to put a deposit down anywhere from 15% to 50% to secure your date. You will not be able to pick everyone so be sure to call back or email the other vendors who did not make the cut and let them know.

Happy Planning,

Intimate Wedding Inspiration Board

Mrs. & Mr. Jeneva & Aaron Givens

9.25.2010

Below are all the vendors that help make this wedding a big success!

Wedding Planner: Beautiful Beyond Dreams, LLC
Photographer: Shoot Me Chic Photography
Officiant: Pastor Darrell L. Parham
Venue: Rock of Ages Worship Ministries
Caterer: On the Marc Catering
Wedding Dress: David's Bridal
Groom & Groomsmen Tuxes: Mens Warehouse
Flowers: Flowers by Mendez & Jackel
Wedding Programs: DIY Project
Linens: Table Top Fashions
Make-Up: La Mode Consulting
Hair Stylist: Shurkriyyah Parham

 

 

 

Sincerely,