During any consultation I have, I ask the same two questions: What are your 'must haves' and what are your wedding day fears. Both are meant to a) make you as the bride and groom think and b) let me know what matters most. 'Must haves' can include anything: we 'must have' my grandmothers rosary beads wrapped around my bouquet or 'we must' have a certain vineyards' wine served or we 'must have' pulled pork sliders. Your 'must haves' are items, ideas, concepts that if they weren't apart of the wedding day, would be a future regret. They are the sentimental aspects important to you as a couple or a family.
Your 'must haves' also give your wedding planner insight into where to potentially repurpose your wedding day budget. If a 'must have' is going to stretch your budget disproportionately in one direction, think about where you can put less money in elsewhere. Perhaps you know your guests really aren't into favors, but they would love a late night snack. Forgo the favors in favour of sliders and mini milkshakes at midnight.
Repurpose your budget to make your budget work for you. The greatest thing about weddings these days is that anything goes. The newest tradition is that "traditions" are out the window and its up to the couple to make their own traditions. With that in mind, your budget doesn't need to be cookie cutter - just because so and so did x,y and z doesn't mean that you have to. Make your money work for what you want, not the other way around.
Showing posts with label advice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label advice. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Scheduling Your Wedding Weekend
After you've decided on a wedding date, the next date that should be determined is your wedding rehearsal date and time. The obvious choice is the late afternoon / early evening the day before your wedding day, but sometimes depending on your ceremony venue you may have to hold your rehearsal in the morning or a few days before. Whatever you do, DO NOT NOT SCHEDULE A REHEARSAL! Perhaps many of your bridal party are married or been in enough weddings that they 'know' the ceremony drill - it doesn't matter. Every ceremony is different, every officiant is different and your bridal party plus you and your fiancee need to do a trial run so that everyone is on the same page.
Your rehearsal shouldn't take too long {normally depends on how late your bridal party arrives} and all you are doing is a run through of the processional, ceremony and recessional. You want to determine your line up and who will stand where during the ceremony. Your wedding planner or coordinator will take notes so that nothing is forgotten for the ceremony.
If your ceremony venue is giving you push back on a rehearsal because they have events happening, stress the importance of doing a rehearsal. If you are unable to get into the space to practice, then gather the entire bridal party and officiant elsewhere for a run through. You want everyone to get a feel for what will be happening during the ceremony.
Have you thought about your rehearsal?
Your rehearsal shouldn't take too long {normally depends on how late your bridal party arrives} and all you are doing is a run through of the processional, ceremony and recessional. You want to determine your line up and who will stand where during the ceremony. Your wedding planner or coordinator will take notes so that nothing is forgotten for the ceremony.
If your ceremony venue is giving you push back on a rehearsal because they have events happening, stress the importance of doing a rehearsal. If you are unable to get into the space to practice, then gather the entire bridal party and officiant elsewhere for a run through. You want everyone to get a feel for what will be happening during the ceremony.
Have you thought about your rehearsal?
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Wedding Inspiration Overload
I've written several posts about finding your wedding style and wedding inspiration, but I want to revisit this topic. There are a million and one fabulous wedding websites and blogs to whet the appetite. So many ideas, images, colors, thoughts ~ so overwhelming! When you're pulling together images that you love and would love for your wedding day - par down. Remember the saying, less is more? I recently went through a business development exercise that I am convinced would work wonders for wedding planning. The exercise was to show what you wanted your business to look like through images. Pick 10 to 15 images that represent how you want your business to look like. Much easier said than done BUT the limitations of 10 to 15 made it so much easier to discard the images that didn't connect or that really didn't have a place in my business inspiration board. Not every image or idea is applicable to my business, just like not every image or idea is applicable to your wedding.
Take the concept of the 10-15 images and create your specific wedding inspiration board. The more specific you can be with your images, the more put together and cohesive your wedding will look on the big day. Remember, less is more, and while you've probably pulled 100's of images, go through and really note what you like about the image - if its only a simple aspect of it {the color, one item etc}, write it down and pull the image out of the pile. Your finalized 'board' should tell a specific story of your wedding day.
Take the concept of the 10-15 images and create your specific wedding inspiration board. The more specific you can be with your images, the more put together and cohesive your wedding will look on the big day. Remember, less is more, and while you've probably pulled 100's of images, go through and really note what you like about the image - if its only a simple aspect of it {the color, one item etc}, write it down and pull the image out of the pile. Your finalized 'board' should tell a specific story of your wedding day.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Exciting Times for Wedding Planning!
After months and months of brainstorming and researching, I am finally ready to unveil our new packages of services that we offer! Essentially, we've upgraded the "Full Planning" package to something a little bit more full service {rehearsal dinner planning + coordination, RSVP management, DIY projects all now included!} which will let us get even more hands on in your wedding weekend planning process. We've kept our "Full Planning" and "Partial Planning" packages and upgraded our "Day Of Coordination" to "Month Of Coordination" ... and finally, we've given each package a nifty NYC-esque name, just to give them a little bit of polish! If you are interested in further detail on any of our services, please email me @
lisadee {at} andersongreenevents.com!
In other fab news, check out these links:
The fantastic ladies of Masterpiece Weddings & Swoonoverit were kind enough to add me into their Be A Planner series. Check it out here to see how I got started in wedding planning and to see another lovely picture of my french bulldogs!
Julianne Smith, the genius behind Garter Girl, has written an excellent post for brides and grooms alike. Before you sit down and plan one second of your wedding, read her post! It will be a life saver in the wedding planning process.
Have a wonderful weekend!
lisadee {at} andersongreenevents.com!
In other fab news, check out these links:
The fantastic ladies of Masterpiece Weddings & Swoonoverit were kind enough to add me into their Be A Planner series. Check it out here to see how I got started in wedding planning and to see another lovely picture of my french bulldogs!
Julianne Smith, the genius behind Garter Girl, has written an excellent post for brides and grooms alike. Before you sit down and plan one second of your wedding, read her post! It will be a life saver in the wedding planning process.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Weekly Round Up: Wedding Planning Advice
I've come across some amazing reads, tips and general wedding goodness this week and I wanted to talk a moment to share some of it with you.
Firstly: Spencer Lum of 5West Studios has posted some images from a wedding we worked on together back in August. It was a two day affair {small intimate ceremony at their home on Friday evening, big blow out bash on Saturday night} ... once all the images are up, I will do a full post, but in the mean time, check out the slideshow!
Secondly: Take a looksee at Saundra Hadley's blog for awesome advice on working with some of your wedding vendors. She gives it to you straight and its so on the money!
Lastly: Check out this lovely tidbit on writing thank you notes to your vendors after the wedding. The written word means everything to your wedding vendors, so be a love and write them a glowing testimonial if they earned one.
Have a fantastic weekend!
Firstly: Spencer Lum of 5West Studios has posted some images from a wedding we worked on together back in August. It was a two day affair {small intimate ceremony at their home on Friday evening, big blow out bash on Saturday night} ... once all the images are up, I will do a full post, but in the mean time, check out the slideshow!
Secondly: Take a looksee at Saundra Hadley's blog for awesome advice on working with some of your wedding vendors. She gives it to you straight and its so on the money!
Lastly: Check out this lovely tidbit on writing thank you notes to your vendors after the wedding. The written word means everything to your wedding vendors, so be a love and write them a glowing testimonial if they earned one.
Have a fantastic weekend!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Defining Luxury
Today's post is directed towards you, dear reader. I am currently reading a book on Luxury and how through the age's the word alone has come to be defined. It's quite something to think about, especially when it comes to weddings. Years ago, luxury was thought of something that only the upper upper classes could afford. Luxury items and / or lifestyle was seen as only for the very rich and elite. These days, the word luxury has morphed into something much more. Luxury is not only the finest things in life {which are more accessible to the masses} but also experiences. Free time is now considered a luxury. Travel and amazing perks on your trip are now considered luxury.
How does Luxury play a role in your wedding? Is it the luxury of a budget that allows you to fulfill all your wedding day wishes? Is it the luxury of having the best of the best? Is it the luxury of having all your friends and family be there to celebrate your vows? Is it the luxury of knowing that you are going to say 'I Do' to your soulmate? Is it the luxury of knowing that your day will be smooth, seamless and amazing because of the fabulous vendors you've hired and the trust you have in them?
What are your luxuries in life and in wedding planning?
{Personal note: some of my luxuries in life include a healthy happy family, being able to travel and having a seriously comfy couch}
How does Luxury play a role in your wedding? Is it the luxury of a budget that allows you to fulfill all your wedding day wishes? Is it the luxury of having the best of the best? Is it the luxury of having all your friends and family be there to celebrate your vows? Is it the luxury of knowing that you are going to say 'I Do' to your soulmate? Is it the luxury of knowing that your day will be smooth, seamless and amazing because of the fabulous vendors you've hired and the trust you have in them?
What are your luxuries in life and in wedding planning?
{Personal note: some of my luxuries in life include a healthy happy family, being able to travel and having a seriously comfy couch}
Monday, August 17, 2009
When Vendors Seem To Be Too Good To Be True
I am inspired to write about this topic based off of a consultation I had this afternoon. Apparently, my services + prices were too good to be true. Both the bride and the groom were looking for the catch, the hidden loophole, any reason to believe that what I was offering them was not reality. {Reality: What I offer is the reality, no strings attached, no hidden anything} It got me thinking, how often in the wedding planning process do you think "its too good to be true?". Turns out, fairly often. Its as though life, education, advice and experience have taught us to be skeptical of everything from guarantees to promises, and everyday we face situations that seem to be too good to be true. How do you know when it is that good to be true?!
Leaving gut instinct aside {which yes, I do firmly believe plays a massive role in how we perceive services and make purchases}, what impetus allows you, the purchaser, to believe you're getting the best that you can get?
When planning a wedding, the first rule of thumb everyone tells you is to not mention that you're planning a wedding, since the word alone encourages vendors to jack the price up. In same instances, yes, this does happen and its best to pretend you're just having one extravagant affair. But, in other instances, letting a vendor know that its your wedding may lead to getting a lot of extras on top of what you are paying for. Obviously, some vendors you need to hire will automatically know its a wedding {photographer, videographer for example} and you won't be left wondering if you didn't mention WEDDING if the price would be less.
If during your meeting with a vendor, they show their expertise, they are concise in their descriptions, they understand your goals and they generally seem like they get you and your wedding ... take them at face value. I rarely come across a vendor who is out to screw you. In fact, its quite the opposite ~ people who work in this industry generally have a passion for weddings, happiness and their clients. They want their clients to have a happy wedding day. And, they want their services to be what contributes to a happy, seamless wedding day. They usually aren't sinister, quoting one price when the bottom line is actually multiples more. But, if during your meeting you feel like they won't develop on their services or they aren't going to be the best match, then move along.
Try not to base your decisions off of the bottom line, try to base your decisions off the value add that this vendor is going to provide in your planning process. The best compliment a vendor can receive is that they are invaluable regardless of what they charged you.
Leaving gut instinct aside {which yes, I do firmly believe plays a massive role in how we perceive services and make purchases}, what impetus allows you, the purchaser, to believe you're getting the best that you can get?
When planning a wedding, the first rule of thumb everyone tells you is to not mention that you're planning a wedding, since the word alone encourages vendors to jack the price up. In same instances, yes, this does happen and its best to pretend you're just having one extravagant affair. But, in other instances, letting a vendor know that its your wedding may lead to getting a lot of extras on top of what you are paying for. Obviously, some vendors you need to hire will automatically know its a wedding {photographer, videographer for example} and you won't be left wondering if you didn't mention WEDDING if the price would be less.
If during your meeting with a vendor, they show their expertise, they are concise in their descriptions, they understand your goals and they generally seem like they get you and your wedding ... take them at face value. I rarely come across a vendor who is out to screw you. In fact, its quite the opposite ~ people who work in this industry generally have a passion for weddings, happiness and their clients. They want their clients to have a happy wedding day. And, they want their services to be what contributes to a happy, seamless wedding day. They usually aren't sinister, quoting one price when the bottom line is actually multiples more. But, if during your meeting you feel like they won't develop on their services or they aren't going to be the best match, then move along.
Try not to base your decisions off of the bottom line, try to base your decisions off the value add that this vendor is going to provide in your planning process. The best compliment a vendor can receive is that they are invaluable regardless of what they charged you.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Five Lessons I've Learned About Wedding Planning
I thought I would take the time today to discuss Five Lessons that I have learned throughout my wedding planning adventures. Some are personal, that I've learned along the way about myself and some are related to wedding planning.
1. Get everything in writing ~ even if its the stupidest, smallest detail. Firstly, as hard as I try, I can't remember everything and if I don't write it down, it might as well have never been a thought. Take notes during your meetings and file them away. Somewhere down the line, a vendor will want to know which direction the table runner was going and since you wrote it down, you'll be able to quickly give them that information. This principle also applies to contracts and other promises that vendors give you: if its in writing, they can't renege on it. If it's not, well then its "he said, she said" and that is an ugly route to go down.
2. I can only be as great a wedding planner based off the information a client and a vendor tells me. Its unfortunate, but I have yet to master the art of mind reading. Which means, that as a wedding coordinator, I rely on everyone telling me exactly what they are thinking / feeling / wanting. I can usually make any desire happen, I just need to be told about it first in order to get the ball rolling.
3. Think about your guests comfort, to a certain degree. Obviously, while planning your wedding, you've thought about guest comforts: feeding them, providing them libation, entertainment, a thoughtful welcome bag, the small details to make your wedding as fun for them as possible. But, don't continuously make decisions based off of what you think your guests will like / prefer / want to do. Your guests want to see you get hitched and they want to eat, drink and be merry. Anything after that is just a bonus. The best part about a wedding is that despite your guest having been a guest numerous times, they come to every wedding with a fresh slate. Everything is new, novel and exciting and since the Bride and the Groom are the hosts, they will follow your lead.
4. Bathroom locations are extremely important. We don't really need to discuss this in detail, but just remember that having an easy to locate bathroom is high priority.
5. The wedding is one day, a marriage is a lifetime. I personally subscribe to this motto everyday, and I am a wedding planner! You spend so much time planning and planning the wedding, but something its easy to forget that the wedding is actually only one day and that your marriage is a lifetime. Take time in your planning process to discuss important matters and questions that you will encounter in your marriage. Take time to work on your marriage before the wedding, setting the foundation. Regardless of what may happen on the actual wedding day ~ its one day. Your marriage is for the rest of time {I am a total romantic at heart}, so whatever happens on the wedding day, its just small potatoes.
1. Get everything in writing ~ even if its the stupidest, smallest detail. Firstly, as hard as I try, I can't remember everything and if I don't write it down, it might as well have never been a thought. Take notes during your meetings and file them away. Somewhere down the line, a vendor will want to know which direction the table runner was going and since you wrote it down, you'll be able to quickly give them that information. This principle also applies to contracts and other promises that vendors give you: if its in writing, they can't renege on it. If it's not, well then its "he said, she said" and that is an ugly route to go down.
2. I can only be as great a wedding planner based off the information a client and a vendor tells me. Its unfortunate, but I have yet to master the art of mind reading. Which means, that as a wedding coordinator, I rely on everyone telling me exactly what they are thinking / feeling / wanting. I can usually make any desire happen, I just need to be told about it first in order to get the ball rolling.
3. Think about your guests comfort, to a certain degree. Obviously, while planning your wedding, you've thought about guest comforts: feeding them, providing them libation, entertainment, a thoughtful welcome bag, the small details to make your wedding as fun for them as possible. But, don't continuously make decisions based off of what you think your guests will like / prefer / want to do. Your guests want to see you get hitched and they want to eat, drink and be merry. Anything after that is just a bonus. The best part about a wedding is that despite your guest having been a guest numerous times, they come to every wedding with a fresh slate. Everything is new, novel and exciting and since the Bride and the Groom are the hosts, they will follow your lead.
4. Bathroom locations are extremely important. We don't really need to discuss this in detail, but just remember that having an easy to locate bathroom is high priority.
5. The wedding is one day, a marriage is a lifetime. I personally subscribe to this motto everyday, and I am a wedding planner! You spend so much time planning and planning the wedding, but something its easy to forget that the wedding is actually only one day and that your marriage is a lifetime. Take time in your planning process to discuss important matters and questions that you will encounter in your marriage. Take time to work on your marriage before the wedding, setting the foundation. Regardless of what may happen on the actual wedding day ~ its one day. Your marriage is for the rest of time {I am a total romantic at heart}, so whatever happens on the wedding day, its just small potatoes.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Wedding Day Expecations
Throughout the wedding planning process, its easy to become consumed with all the details and lose sight of a very important aspect of the planning: the actual wedding day!
As you get closer to the actual day, you'll probably be overwhelmed collecting RSVPs, getting escort cards completed and putting together welcome baskets and favors. Try to remember that these are all important details, but by no means the end all be all of your wedding day. The best aspect of weddings is that your guests have no clue what you've planned to notice if something is awry or didn't happen as expected. Use this insight to lose control on your wedding day. While you've picked all your vendors, details, logistics and everything else, there really is only one thing you can't control: the weather. And since you can't control it, just go with it {par example: my outdoor, tented reception took place during a full fledged hurricane. we didn't care because there was nothing we could do about it. but, our guests loved the added drama and it makes for great memories}.
Since you have no control over the weather or how your guests will act throughout the day, just roll with it. Get caught up in the moment of marrying the love of your life, not that your bridesmaid walked too quickly down the aisle. You want to remember all the amazing aspects of the day: your vows, the words your officiant said about you, how your new spouse looks during the first dance, the speeches and toasts made, don't worry about anything else. Its not important.
As you get closer to the actual day, you'll probably be overwhelmed collecting RSVPs, getting escort cards completed and putting together welcome baskets and favors. Try to remember that these are all important details, but by no means the end all be all of your wedding day. The best aspect of weddings is that your guests have no clue what you've planned to notice if something is awry or didn't happen as expected. Use this insight to lose control on your wedding day. While you've picked all your vendors, details, logistics and everything else, there really is only one thing you can't control: the weather. And since you can't control it, just go with it {par example: my outdoor, tented reception took place during a full fledged hurricane. we didn't care because there was nothing we could do about it. but, our guests loved the added drama and it makes for great memories}.
Since you have no control over the weather or how your guests will act throughout the day, just roll with it. Get caught up in the moment of marrying the love of your life, not that your bridesmaid walked too quickly down the aisle. You want to remember all the amazing aspects of the day: your vows, the words your officiant said about you, how your new spouse looks during the first dance, the speeches and toasts made, don't worry about anything else. Its not important.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Time Management
If anyone has followed me today on Twitter, you'll recognize why I am writing this post!
When it comes to wedding planning, it takes time. For however long it is between when you start your wedding planning process and the actual wedding date, you'll have lots of decisions and choices to make, which all take time {see my 30 days guide here for the decisions and choices involved}. You have to make time to in order to bring your wedding vision to life.
Now, don't panic! Regardless of how full your daily schedule is, you have time to plan the wedding, it just means being smart about it. Firstly, realize that planning a wedding is an involved process. Even more so, if you have to travel to the wedding destination or want to do lots of DIY projects. There's research involved, meetings to be held, proposals and bids to look over and decisions to be made and ideas and concepts to be pulled together. There's also lots of time to bond with your future spouse and millions and millions of amazing and fantastic resources to scour on the Internet.
Limit yourself to certain times of the day / week to do research on vendors and ideas. You don't want to upset your boss by always being on a wedding blog, so either start subscribing to your favorite blogs, or utilize Google Reader and read it once a day. Read your wedding magazines on your commute {obviously not if you're driving} or instead of watching TV. Carry a notebook around with you in case any ideas pop into your head, so you can quickly write them down. Maintain a notebook or inspiration board with images / ideas / concepts.
Try to arrange your meetings for evenings or weekends, so you have time afterwards to digest what you learn. Either make a commitment to have "wedding planning weekends" where you cram the entire weekend full of wedding related moments, so that the rest of the month is free, or choose to have meetings when you have free time.
Most importantly, make time for family, friends, fun and exercise! This is not the time to let stress get in the way of your normal life. Being healthy is of the utmost importance! Being organized throughout the process while ensure that you are calm and relaxed for the actual wedding. You don't want to look like this:
{courtesy of Bridal Party Tee's}
When it comes to wedding planning, it takes time. For however long it is between when you start your wedding planning process and the actual wedding date, you'll have lots of decisions and choices to make, which all take time {see my 30 days guide here for the decisions and choices involved}. You have to make time to in order to bring your wedding vision to life.
Now, don't panic! Regardless of how full your daily schedule is, you have time to plan the wedding, it just means being smart about it. Firstly, realize that planning a wedding is an involved process. Even more so, if you have to travel to the wedding destination or want to do lots of DIY projects. There's research involved, meetings to be held, proposals and bids to look over and decisions to be made and ideas and concepts to be pulled together. There's also lots of time to bond with your future spouse and millions and millions of amazing and fantastic resources to scour on the Internet.
Limit yourself to certain times of the day / week to do research on vendors and ideas. You don't want to upset your boss by always being on a wedding blog, so either start subscribing to your favorite blogs, or utilize Google Reader and read it once a day. Read your wedding magazines on your commute {obviously not if you're driving} or instead of watching TV. Carry a notebook around with you in case any ideas pop into your head, so you can quickly write them down. Maintain a notebook or inspiration board with images / ideas / concepts.
Try to arrange your meetings for evenings or weekends, so you have time afterwards to digest what you learn. Either make a commitment to have "wedding planning weekends" where you cram the entire weekend full of wedding related moments, so that the rest of the month is free, or choose to have meetings when you have free time.
Most importantly, make time for family, friends, fun and exercise! This is not the time to let stress get in the way of your normal life. Being healthy is of the utmost importance! Being organized throughout the process while ensure that you are calm and relaxed for the actual wedding. You don't want to look like this:
{courtesy of Bridal Party Tee's}
Monday, June 15, 2009
Fantastic Tips from Cocktails & Details
Thought this was a very helpful post written by Fabuluxe Today! Its the 20 Things to Never Do When Planning Your Wedding List!
Happy Reading!
Happy Reading!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Being Unavailable ...
This topic is not directly related to weddings, but, is one that should be addressed. I had the pleasure or distress (depending on how you want to look at) of my blackberry have a run in with a glass of water ... and then death. This happened last night and I had to spend the better part of today sans any communication device ... which actually wasn't as horrible as I thought it would be. Yup, it was annoying to be without a map while searching for an AT&T store in NYC, but being able to walk around without my head buried into a small screen was actually really nice.
So, I invite all of you, brides or not to untether yourself for a day from your mobile devices and just enjoy everything is happening around you ... you may love being unavailable to all your vendors, bridal party and parents!
So, I invite all of you, brides or not to untether yourself for a day from your mobile devices and just enjoy everything is happening around you ... you may love being unavailable to all your vendors, bridal party and parents!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Going Postal ...
Just a friendly reminder that today the postage increases on standard 1st Class Stamps. It increases from 42¢ to 44¢, and ps: all other postage increases too.
If you're sending out invites with RSVP return dates later than today, make sure you have the increased postage on the return envelopes. The only stamps that are staying the same (i.e. no additional postage needed) are the FOREVER stamps for 1 ounce envelopes. So if you've got those, stamps away!
For more information, check out the USPS website.
If you're sending out invites with RSVP return dates later than today, make sure you have the increased postage on the return envelopes. The only stamps that are staying the same (i.e. no additional postage needed) are the FOREVER stamps for 1 ounce envelopes. So if you've got those, stamps away!
For more information, check out the USPS website.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Getting Married? Getting Healthy ...
More often than not, brides want to shape up and tone (and possibly shed some pounds) before the big day. It's not an entirely absurd proposition as long as you are doing it for the right intentions ... long term health benefits, starting off your marriage on the healthy foot, or just looking damn good on your wedding day! I lost some weight but not as much as I wanted for the wedding (I'm not like other people who lose lots when they stress out, I pack it on), my motivation though wasn't look amazing in my dress (that was going to happen regardless ... haha!) but I really wanted to be committed to being healthy in my marriage. With obesity on the rise in the US and portion sizes larger than most NYC apartments these days, its actually getting harder to eat healthy if you don't eat at home. Its also getting harder to find healthy foods around that don't contain 100% chemical garbage in them. What's great is that people are starting to take back their health and be aware of what they are ingesting! Farmer's Markets are popping up everywhere, and if you're like me, warmer weather makes you more inclined to eat the good for you stuff and less cookies (right?).
I got an email today about this brand new book called: Clean Plates NYC. It looks amazing and is perfect for the NYC bride who wants to begin to be healthier. Check out their website!
Here's to happy, healthy eating!
I got an email today about this brand new book called: Clean Plates NYC. It looks amazing and is perfect for the NYC bride who wants to begin to be healthier. Check out their website!
Here's to happy, healthy eating!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Organizing the details ...
This post is inspired by a dear friend whose getting married on 7/11 ... she's begun working on the final details of the wedding and I mentioned that she needs to remain stress free. She then mentioned that she's a bride and that its hard to be calm!
I advocate a stress free environment. It's not always do-able, but it should be the end goal. Planning a wedding can and will be challenging at times, but the closer the wedding day gets, the more its vital for you to relax and take things in stride. Firstly, being stressed out affects your health and your skin ... you want to be healthy and glowing on the inside AND outside on the big day. Secondly, being stressed brings a negative energy to the wedding, which is probably not the vibe you're going for.
Using A's wedding date of 7/11, she's just about 2.5 months out ... what should she be working on now? Details and nothing else. (The rest of this paragraph isn't applicable to you if you've had less than 4+ months to plan the wedding ... I'll post later this week on managing the shorter time frame). Your vendors should be booked and up to date on what they will be providing, your invitations should be out and hopefully RSVP's are trickling in! Your dress and all the other attire for the bridal party should be almost perfectly tailored. The biggest time consumers now should be your favors (if you're having), out of town gift bags (if you're having),music selection for your ceremony and if you're writing your own vows, getting some pen to paper. All the planning should be to rest, you should be working on details. If you've hired a planner, they should be working on creating the day's timeline with you and making sure that you are getting ready to get hitched. Let your planner deal with the last minute craziness that may flair up (suddenly an extra guest or two pops up, your cellist doesn't have the ceremony address, the florist got in a bad shipment of flowers etc) - whatever nonsense arrives, let the planner handle it. That's why you hired one, right?
Most importantly, as the bride, you should be stress free and indulgent. Go to the spa, read lots of romance novels, whatever you do to unwind. Just take the focus off of the wedding, so that when you start to walk down the aisle, you'll fully be in the moment.
Take a page out of my Maxwell's book and enjoy the warm weather!
I advocate a stress free environment. It's not always do-able, but it should be the end goal. Planning a wedding can and will be challenging at times, but the closer the wedding day gets, the more its vital for you to relax and take things in stride. Firstly, being stressed out affects your health and your skin ... you want to be healthy and glowing on the inside AND outside on the big day. Secondly, being stressed brings a negative energy to the wedding, which is probably not the vibe you're going for.
Using A's wedding date of 7/11, she's just about 2.5 months out ... what should she be working on now? Details and nothing else. (The rest of this paragraph isn't applicable to you if you've had less than 4+ months to plan the wedding ... I'll post later this week on managing the shorter time frame). Your vendors should be booked and up to date on what they will be providing, your invitations should be out and hopefully RSVP's are trickling in! Your dress and all the other attire for the bridal party should be almost perfectly tailored. The biggest time consumers now should be your favors (if you're having), out of town gift bags (if you're having),music selection for your ceremony and if you're writing your own vows, getting some pen to paper. All the planning should be to rest, you should be working on details. If you've hired a planner, they should be working on creating the day's timeline with you and making sure that you are getting ready to get hitched. Let your planner deal with the last minute craziness that may flair up (suddenly an extra guest or two pops up, your cellist doesn't have the ceremony address, the florist got in a bad shipment of flowers etc) - whatever nonsense arrives, let the planner handle it. That's why you hired one, right?
Most importantly, as the bride, you should be stress free and indulgent. Go to the spa, read lots of romance novels, whatever you do to unwind. Just take the focus off of the wedding, so that when you start to walk down the aisle, you'll fully be in the moment.
Take a page out of my Maxwell's book and enjoy the warm weather!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Being Realistic ...
The past few weeks have been very busy, but all very exciting to say the least.
I wanted to post about being a bride and planning the wedding and being realistic. Contrary to most men ... many woman have spent a very long time picturing how their wedding day is going to take shape, thus when it comes time to start actually planning the wedding, their vision can sometimes be a bit larger than life and not so realistic. I'm not saying that your dreams, wishes, desires, wants, must haves etc can't come true, I am just saying that sometimes, dreams must be scaled back a bit ... perhaps you are getting married in July but you've always pictured a winter wonderland theme - you could do it, but it would be a bit out of place; or you've always thought that you'd arrive in style to the ceremony in a Rolls or Bentley, only to find out that there are none within a 500 mile radius of your wedding site. Instead of becoming fixated on one aspect of your desire, try to figure out other ways to incorporate it into what you are able to do in your wedding locale.
Its all about melding the dreams and life together that will produce your most fantastic wedding.
I wanted to post about being a bride and planning the wedding and being realistic. Contrary to most men ... many woman have spent a very long time picturing how their wedding day is going to take shape, thus when it comes time to start actually planning the wedding, their vision can sometimes be a bit larger than life and not so realistic. I'm not saying that your dreams, wishes, desires, wants, must haves etc can't come true, I am just saying that sometimes, dreams must be scaled back a bit ... perhaps you are getting married in July but you've always pictured a winter wonderland theme - you could do it, but it would be a bit out of place; or you've always thought that you'd arrive in style to the ceremony in a Rolls or Bentley, only to find out that there are none within a 500 mile radius of your wedding site. Instead of becoming fixated on one aspect of your desire, try to figure out other ways to incorporate it into what you are able to do in your wedding locale.
Its all about melding the dreams and life together that will produce your most fantastic wedding.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Groom - diva?
I always get asked about how involved the Groom should be in the wedding planning ... I always get a kick out of this. Without the Groom, there'd be no wedding, so he's involved from day one!!! In all seriousness though, having an active (or somewhet active) Groom throughout the planning process is a must have. Firstly, it eliminates him having an surprises on the wedding day ("I hate chicken, why are we serving chicken?" or "This is the venue you picked?") and it also gives him a little bit of ownership of the day. Now, the Groom's involvement doesn't have to be much (obviously you're planning over the course of many sports seasons ... wouldn't want him to miss out on any big games) but he should be helping out.
My suggestions for where the Groom should be involved:
Getting the guest list in order (he should be finalizing his side of invitees AND getting the appropriate addresses from his side)
Help picking the food - he will be eating it, he should like it!
Help picking the band - gotta make sure they play music suitable for his dance moves!
Acting as a buffer between the Bride and the future in-laws ... this is a must do if your in laws are being difficult throughout the planning phase. In theory, he should be the neutral ground - supporting you, listening to them (and then saying no, right?!)
Most importantly - he should be your #1 supporter right now. When you want to scream because all you have is tulle, beef and hydrangea's on the mind and you need to escape from the induced wedding coma, he should be there to listen, calm you down and redirect your fury elsewhere.
Lastly, an involved Groom means he'll be insanely proud of all your hard work after the wedding, and be your personal marketer telling everyone that the wedding was incredible and amazing because of all your fantastic planning!
My suggestions for where the Groom should be involved:
Getting the guest list in order (he should be finalizing his side of invitees AND getting the appropriate addresses from his side)
Help picking the food - he will be eating it, he should like it!
Help picking the band - gotta make sure they play music suitable for his dance moves!
Acting as a buffer between the Bride and the future in-laws ... this is a must do if your in laws are being difficult throughout the planning phase. In theory, he should be the neutral ground - supporting you, listening to them (and then saying no, right?!)
Most importantly - he should be your #1 supporter right now. When you want to scream because all you have is tulle, beef and hydrangea's on the mind and you need to escape from the induced wedding coma, he should be there to listen, calm you down and redirect your fury elsewhere.
Lastly, an involved Groom means he'll be insanely proud of all your hard work after the wedding, and be your personal marketer telling everyone that the wedding was incredible and amazing because of all your fantastic planning!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Losing Faith ...
I recently got into a discussion with some brides regarding vendors and their promise to deliver on their contracts and services, so I want to post some thoughts here:
If you've met with a vendor and they tell you that they will get you a proposal/estimate or contract by a certain date - follow up with them! Obviously things arise, but your vendor should make every effort to get you a proposal as quickly as possible. If weeks go by and nothing comes to fruition, start making calls (or have your planner follow up) ... I view the post consultation time to be the most critical - how you communicate with potential clients instills faith in them that you are competent and will deliver on your services. If you've met with a vendor and a long time passes before you hear back from them - its probably best to move onto your next choice. If you don't have faith in them to send you a document - do you really have faith in them to show up on your wedding day?
Lastly, a contract is a contract is a contract. Its a legal document that states: Here is x,y, and z of the services I will provide you on such and such date, everyone signs it. Whatever is in there, your vendor must provide, by law! So, I was so surprised to hear from a bride that she's heard horror stories that couples have shown up for their wedding only to find that the wedding is nothing like what they've worked so hard to create! Venues switching rooms/spaces, decor being completly different - bands not showing up ... I was left speechless. I am hoping that these are "urban wedding myths". What have you heard?
If you've met with a vendor and they tell you that they will get you a proposal/estimate or contract by a certain date - follow up with them! Obviously things arise, but your vendor should make every effort to get you a proposal as quickly as possible. If weeks go by and nothing comes to fruition, start making calls (or have your planner follow up) ... I view the post consultation time to be the most critical - how you communicate with potential clients instills faith in them that you are competent and will deliver on your services. If you've met with a vendor and a long time passes before you hear back from them - its probably best to move onto your next choice. If you don't have faith in them to send you a document - do you really have faith in them to show up on your wedding day?
Lastly, a contract is a contract is a contract. Its a legal document that states: Here is x,y, and z of the services I will provide you on such and such date, everyone signs it. Whatever is in there, your vendor must provide, by law! So, I was so surprised to hear from a bride that she's heard horror stories that couples have shown up for their wedding only to find that the wedding is nothing like what they've worked so hard to create! Venues switching rooms/spaces, decor being completly different - bands not showing up ... I was left speechless. I am hoping that these are "urban wedding myths". What have you heard?
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Destination-wise ...
Friends of ours recently got engaged! They are planning a destination wedding and it got me thinking. What wedding these days doesn't count as a destination wedding? In this day and age, when guests are attending multiple weddings per year - it seems like everyone is having to travel in from somewhere. A few years ago, a destination wedding was when the couple picked a warm place and a resort to get married, now it can be Los Angeles, New York City, The Hamptons or even Grand Rapids, Michigan - if at least 20% of your guests have to travel, I'd consider it a destination wedding.
What does a destination wedding mean planning wise? I would say the first and main element is - the location of the destination and your location. How many times are you able to travel to your destination to go over planning & details? You have to be able to travel there at least once before the wedding to make sure that your expectations are being met. For me, this is a non-negotiable. After that, with the internet and email, you can work with your coordinator (also, for me, a necessary - if there isn't a person on-site at the venue or resort, hire someone who will travel there for your wedding weekend, even if just for peace of mind) to finalize all other details.
Also, keep in mind that not all of your invited guests will be able to travel to your destination. It doesn't mean that they don't want to celebrate with you, it just means that financially or work wise, they can't afford it. Just accept their congratulations and move on.
Finally, think about why at the heart of your wedding, is a destination right for you as a couple? Perhaps the place holds lots of sentimental value, perhaps the place is where you fell in love - make sure your guests know why they are traveling to x,y and z location. Since it is important to you, it should be important to your guests. Keep them in the know!
As an aside - we had a destination wedding ourselves ... in East Hampton, NY. most guests didn't need to fly in (although some did) but we did have to keep in mind that everyone is on a different budget and that we had to offer something for everyone. We originally wanted to have our wedding in South Africa (where I am from), but quickly realized that most of our friends probably wouldn't want to give up precious vacation days and money to spend a week with us ... plus, we'd have to become travel agents and organize a lot of activities (which, I still think would have been fun, but that's just me!). Perhaps in a few years we can renew our vows in one of these amazing South African locations:
What does a destination wedding mean planning wise? I would say the first and main element is - the location of the destination and your location. How many times are you able to travel to your destination to go over planning & details? You have to be able to travel there at least once before the wedding to make sure that your expectations are being met. For me, this is a non-negotiable. After that, with the internet and email, you can work with your coordinator (also, for me, a necessary - if there isn't a person on-site at the venue or resort, hire someone who will travel there for your wedding weekend, even if just for peace of mind) to finalize all other details.
Also, keep in mind that not all of your invited guests will be able to travel to your destination. It doesn't mean that they don't want to celebrate with you, it just means that financially or work wise, they can't afford it. Just accept their congratulations and move on.
Finally, think about why at the heart of your wedding, is a destination right for you as a couple? Perhaps the place holds lots of sentimental value, perhaps the place is where you fell in love - make sure your guests know why they are traveling to x,y and z location. Since it is important to you, it should be important to your guests. Keep them in the know!
As an aside - we had a destination wedding ourselves ... in East Hampton, NY. most guests didn't need to fly in (although some did) but we did have to keep in mind that everyone is on a different budget and that we had to offer something for everyone. We originally wanted to have our wedding in South Africa (where I am from), but quickly realized that most of our friends probably wouldn't want to give up precious vacation days and money to spend a week with us ... plus, we'd have to become travel agents and organize a lot of activities (which, I still think would have been fun, but that's just me!). Perhaps in a few years we can renew our vows in one of these amazing South African locations:
Monday, March 23, 2009
Spring has Sprung ...
Well, its officially spring. At least by way of the calendar, not the temperature. I love spring mainly because it means that summer is almost here and because brides get more choices for flowers, colors, wearing a sleeveless dress isn't such a cold idea and most importantly because the days are longer and more venues just plain look better!
In the wake of the past few weeks (a wedding, which went well and I can't wait to see photos from), to an impromtu mini vacay with the husband and frenchies - we've got a lot going on and I can't wait to share it all with you! Exciting news coming in the new few weeks - stay tuned.
Now, back to some planning advice:
You've found the perfect venue - for whatever reason - the date is available, the space is incredible, you can hold your ceremony and reception there with minimal resetting, something about the place makes you feel wonderful ... but ... the cost is too high. I hear about this all the time - what should I do? Firstly, make a list of all the pro's and the con's (and the con list can't just be a single line item of: price). Ask for a copy of there contract - get into the nitty gritty. Perhaps they charge for elevator usage or overtime for break down and load out. Maybe they require you to pay for a bathroom attendent, or maybe, you get so many additional items included that the price is well worth it. Once you've got this list, start negotiating. (Personal secret - until I met my husband (the #1 negotiator in the world), I hardly negotiated. He taught me that practically everything is up for negotation - so true!) You want to show the venue that you're interested but don't let on that you're madly in love with the place, it gives them the leg up if you do. Ask if there is any way for a price reduction (feel free to name drop here: the present economy), or if we did away with certain elements having to do with caterering, or if you did everything earlier in the day ... by bringing specific items to the table instead of just demanding a price decrease, the venue may be more amenable. The worse they can say is no.
If you are unable to get a reduction in price, but have to have your wedding there, please do not start thinking "ok, now what do I have to give up?". We don't give up anything - we reshuffle our budget and place more importance on aspects that really matter, and find ways to spend less on aspects that aren't as important to you. Its all about compromise (and creative research!).
In the wake of the past few weeks (a wedding, which went well and I can't wait to see photos from), to an impromtu mini vacay with the husband and frenchies - we've got a lot going on and I can't wait to share it all with you! Exciting news coming in the new few weeks - stay tuned.
Now, back to some planning advice:
You've found the perfect venue - for whatever reason - the date is available, the space is incredible, you can hold your ceremony and reception there with minimal resetting, something about the place makes you feel wonderful ... but ... the cost is too high. I hear about this all the time - what should I do? Firstly, make a list of all the pro's and the con's (and the con list can't just be a single line item of: price). Ask for a copy of there contract - get into the nitty gritty. Perhaps they charge for elevator usage or overtime for break down and load out. Maybe they require you to pay for a bathroom attendent, or maybe, you get so many additional items included that the price is well worth it. Once you've got this list, start negotiating. (Personal secret - until I met my husband (the #1 negotiator in the world), I hardly negotiated. He taught me that practically everything is up for negotation - so true!) You want to show the venue that you're interested but don't let on that you're madly in love with the place, it gives them the leg up if you do. Ask if there is any way for a price reduction (feel free to name drop here: the present economy), or if we did away with certain elements having to do with caterering, or if you did everything earlier in the day ... by bringing specific items to the table instead of just demanding a price decrease, the venue may be more amenable. The worse they can say is no.
If you are unable to get a reduction in price, but have to have your wedding there, please do not start thinking "ok, now what do I have to give up?". We don't give up anything - we reshuffle our budget and place more importance on aspects that really matter, and find ways to spend less on aspects that aren't as important to you. Its all about compromise (and creative research!).
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