FAQs
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I actually started out in this business when I was 17 years old and still in high school. I participated in a program where I went to school in the morning, and when to work after lunch. My first job was at a Marriott hotel in Roanoke. In the afternoon, I worked as an Admin for the Catering Director typing menus, proposals, event orders, etc. I fell in love with the business. She was amazing at her job and taught me the in's and out's. Over the years, I have worked for some of the most talented Catering Directors, Chef's, Food & Beverage Directors, etc. and have continued to learn about the business. I did actually leave the event business twice. I lasted less than a year both times before I had to get back to it. Those of us in the industry say it's in our blood - you either have it or you don't. I finally submitted to the fact that it's in my blood and opened my own business. It'll be with me forever!
- What types of customers have you worked with?
As a wedding planner, my goal for my clients is to help eliminate stress. I will do as much or as little as you prefer. But some of the things I can help with include: Help you find and secure any remaining vendors. Review your vendor contracts for accuracy as compared to your needs for the day Check to make sure all details have been thought of and planned for Communicate with all vendors prior to your event to review expectations Coordinate delivery and setup times Compile a full itinerary that is shared with all vendors to ensure no small detail is overlooked Coordination at wedding rehearsal Day of coordination and contact point for all vendors for any last minute decisions End of the event wrap up including boxing up all items and decorations for your family to pick up the next day .... so you can all ENJOY your family!!
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Wedding Planning is not like the Jennifer Lopez movie. It's not glamorous. We don't have fancy head sets. We actually work. We run. We sweat. We crawl under tables. We get wet when it rains. And you'd be surprised how many things we have fixed with duct tape that the bride never saw! When hiring a wedding planner, you need someone who knows how to improvise, make decisions and has the forethought to ask all the questions in advance. A wedding planner is not there to make the event gorgeous .... that's what your florist or event designer will do. A wedding planner is there to make sure everything runs exactly how you envision it.