Wedding Cake Alternatives http://ping.fm/WUoRL

Wedding Cake Alternatives

Cake Shooters! Yum!

Wedding cakes can be many-tiered, big, beautiful and extravagant or they can be small, simple and elegant. It’s all up to you, the bride, and what you want your cake to say about your wedding. But maybe you’re not sure if you want to go with a traditional cake. Maybe you want to do something different or maybe you just want to provide guests with a dessert that is secretly saving you money. Whatever your reason may be, here are some great wedding cake alternatives that’ll have everyone buzzing!
· Cupcakes – exactly like cake (obviously) but smaller and therefore, cuter and more fun to eat! You can decorate each of them differently if you want to or make them all the same. Buying a tiered cake stand to put them on makes them more visually appealing as well.
· Chocolate fountain – might seem a little cheesy (actually, it’s chocolatey) but no one said you have to do dark or milk chocolate. This idea is one that you can have some fun with as well. If you decide to use white chocolate, you could even dye the liquid chocolate to match your wedding colors. It can be beautiful and delicious when you treat it almost like fondue and set out little goodies to dip in the chocolate. Be creative – it could be cookies, marshmallows, even bits of cake. The possibilities are endless and completely to your choosing!
· Cookie buffet – maybe baked goods aren’t really your thing but you still want a yummy, sugary dessert to give your guests and to enjoy for yourself, of course! A candy buffet is not childish, as it might sound, but can be fun and different. There are so many different kinds of candy out there that there is sure to be something for everyone.
· Puddings/Mousses – this can be beautiful and exciting as well. You can always put them in different containers, decorated exactly as you want them, and choose from all kinds of different flavors and varieties. You can always include fruit along with that for an extra twist.
· Cheesecakes, tarts, pies, etc… - there are so many other options out there! Make sure you choose what YOU like for your wedding dessert. Be creative and don’t be shy about asking friends or family might have as different suggestions. Magazines and websites have some great alternative ideas as well.

~Meg

Meet Ashley!

The name Details is what caught my attention first about this company. No one, well, besides Jami, is more detailed than me. I believe there is nothing better than to see the end result of an event I’ve helped plan, especially after all the stress of coordinating the small, but oh so important details. I am known for saying, “I want to see action!” Action does not happen unless those tiny, but important details come together.

I am a bride-to-be myself, and loving every minute of it! My fiancé and I have been together since our freshman year at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Our wedding date is set for October 2, 2010 in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Remember how I said I like details? Let’s just say I had everything booked and reserved for the wedding, well besides the DJ, within the first two months of our engagement. Although my planning is practically complete, I still attend as many wedding shows as possible to network and socialize with vendors, and to continue building relationships.

My passion and drive for event planning all began through the national sorority, Sigma Sigma Sigma. I had the pleasure of planning and coordinating campus wide events for over 60 women on a weekly basis. Can you imagine the fine details that had to go into that work? Although I was not planning weddings at that time, I still found myself reading the couture bridal magazines and event planning books whenever I could. When it comes to being a wedding planner, there is nothing more important than knowing the old traditions along with the most current trends.

Besides helping brides plan for their big day, I work at United Healthcare in Green Bay, Wisconsin. I work alongside senior citizens helping them plan their future health care needs. As for the fun stuff, I recently got a black lab/collie mix puppy and I am having a blast spoiling her. I live for the sun, white sand between my toes, shopping, and, of course, champagne! Cheers!

~Ashley

Mmmmm, Cake!

Choosing your wedding cake can be as delicious as it is exciting! There are, however, certain things every bride must know before deciding on a wedding cake and the chef that bakes it.


The first thing you need to know is that a wedding cake needs to be ordered AT LEAST 6-8 weeks before the big day. This means that you need to have all the little details figured out even before then. You need to take into consideration how many guests you plan on having because this will have the biggest impact on size, and ultimately cost, of your cake. Decide what percentage of the budget will be allotted for your cake (and other sweets, if your cake is not going to be the “main event”.)
The next steps include gathering ideas as to how you want your cake to look. If your wedding is going to be more formal, you may want a tiered cake with elaborate decorations. Keep in mind though, the more decorations and detail you want on your cake, the more expensive it will be. There are plenty of great ideas for simple, yet beautiful cakes online or in bridal magazines. Check out our Facebook album with cake ideas! Make sure you have put some thought into how you want your cake to look before you meet with a baker, which is the next thing you’ll want to do.

Ask friends or family in the area if they know of any really excellent cake bakers. This will be a good starting point from which to choose who will make your cake. Once you have selected a few different bakeries to visit, ask to see their pictures of past wedding cakes they have made. This will give you an idea of the kind of work they do. You will also want to sample the different kinds of cakes they offer (the delicious part!) and talk with them about what kinds of icing they are most comfortable with using, as that makes a difference in the way the cake is presented. Make sure the chef can accommodate the design you want for your cake as well. Talk with him or her about what some possible options might be. They are the experts!

Choosing a wedding cake is one of the most fun decisions you will make for your wedding so enjoy it! Don’t feel guilty for trying samples of multiple bakeries…you’re just trying to make an informed decision, of course!

Beautiful images from our latest event! http://ping.fm/7hDcz

Change, Change, Change

Deciding whether or not to change your last name as a result of marriage is a big, and sometimes controversial, decision. Some women choose not to change their names at all while some have been dreaming of taking their husband’s last name for years. Still others may opt to keep their maiden name in the professional arena while using their spouse’s name for their social lives. Here at Details, we cannot make this decision for you, as it is a very personal one, but we can tell you HOW to change it if you so decide.

The first thing you need to know is that when you are making reservations for your honeymoon, you MUST use your maiden name! Your driver’s license, and passport if you need it, will still be in your given name. Kind of a bummer if you’ve really become excited about taking your new hubby’s name but a necessary evil, nonetheless.

You may also want to inform those you work with, especially your boss or HR department, if you’re going to change your name because your e-mail address, business cards, and financial information may all change as well. You might have to wait to change your name on tax/financial documents until after you receive your new social security card but it is a good idea to at least give them a heads up.

If you haven’t already, tell your close family and friends about your new name as well (and the spelling, just in case) because monogrammed gifts are popular and you don’t want any confusion with that.
NOW, after you’re married, and have received your marriage license in the mail – which could take a couple weeks – get your new social security card! This is needed for many other formal changes, like paperwork and your driver’s license, so it is important to get the ball rolling on this as soon as possible. If you go to the social security website (which we have conveniently looked up for you - http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.pdf) you can print off the form, fill it out and take it to your local social security office, along with your marriage license, and viola! You should receive your new card right then and there.

The next step is to change your name on your driver’s license. Just take your marriage license (a handy tool, is it not?) to your local DMV and they should take care of it for you without too much hassle. However, some do require that you show your social security card with your changed name on it but it depends on the location…check before you go in.
All that’s left to do is change your name with every single organization, club and business you belong to and you’re all set! These are mostly people you pay money to…like your bank, your insurance company, your utilities…you get the idea. You should be able to send each a letter with all necessary information and a copy of your marriage license and they will take care of it. There should be no cost involved, either.
Oh, and don’t forget to get used to your new name yourself. Although, for some of us, that won’t be so difficult. Happy changing!

Meet Nicole!

Hi, my name is Nicole Wirth. I am a recent grad from UW-Stevens Point with a

Bachelor's in Interior Architecture. I love being creative, helping people with

design and decor, and have a bit of perfectionist in me..always making sure things

are complete, orderly, and running smoothly. In college I was always called the

overachiever. (Which can be good and bad, I guess!?) I needed to get things done

as soon and as efficiently as I could. It’s really helped throughout the years and

is a quality that can be used in any profession.

Jami's business has really helped me learn what being a professional event planner

is all about...and that the Details, really make or break any event. I've been

learning a ton about planning at the moment, because I am engaged and have been in

the midst of planning my own wedding. It's a great learning tool to get a feel for

the event planning business, what type of vendors are out there, and how to work on

a tight budget.

My fiance and I have been together since high school and are excited to see what’s in

store for us. We are currently living in Greenville, and will probably stay there

forever. Way to be adventurous, right?! Well, his family has a business in

Greenville, so it keeps us pretty grounded in the Appleton area, which really, is

fine with me. Appleton is a great area and new opportunities always seem to come

up. We hope to get many opportunities to travel in the next few years. We consider

a vacation somewhere hot, with beaches, and really good fruity drinks!  We hope to

have kids in the next few years, as well. Lots of plans ahead of us!

In my free time...my family has a cabin up in Shawano on Legend Lake, which I love

visiting. I spend as many weekends as I can up there with friends and family. I love

going boating, bargain shopping, taking walks, doing crafty things, and spending as

much time as I can with those closest to me.



Aside from helping Jami with events, I currently work for Realon Real Estate, in the

Appleton area; completing all aspects of advertising within each listing. I am also

an interior design assistant at Absolutely Yours Interiors in Appleton where I help

each designer with floor plans, choosing furniture, fabrics, colors, etc.

Throughout the years, I’ve learned how much I pay attention to details and how

critical they are in every project I’ve completed. This lead me to become a staffer

for Jami.



I hope you enjoyed learning a bit more about me! I look forward to working events

in the future and hope you have a great holiday season!



*Nicole

What a cool display for your cardbox! http://ping.fm/njT4W

Things that irk your wedding guests http://ping.fm/cEL3Q

Detour

Detours.  Don't you hate them?  You're cruising along smoothly when all of a sudden something beyond your control mandates that your plans be changed.  This recently happened to me at, of course, what I thought to be terrible timing, but I am a believer in the old statement, "Things happen for a reason". 

I was cruising along 5 weeks into a 9 week weight loss challenge - and winning - and one week away from a major event we were handling.  When bam!  It hit me!  Yes, it literally hit me.  I had been working out in my basement (concrete floor) on my mini trampoline (socks only) with hand weights.  Finished with the weights, I placed them on a table next to the trampline then stepped of first with my right foot.  They say timing is everything and it certainly was for at the same moment my foot touched the floor, one of the weights rolled off the table and end-up square on my big toe.  It hurt baaadddd! 

I iced the goose-egg that was trying to show itself and watched the brusing encompass much of my foot - top, bottom, and end.  I assumed nothing was broken and hobbled in flipflops for the next week before finally becoming concerned that the pain was increasing instead of decreasing.  A trip to the doctor with x-rays confirmed that my big toe (or as the doctor referred to it, "The Great One") was broken at the first joint.  "A month," she said.  A month?  I didn't have a month!  I had events to coordinate and exercise to endure!

Detour.  Now, three weeks later, I am still hobbling around, watching my bruising diminish, and becoming more impatient.  While being on my feet for 15 hours for that big event was probably a setback, everything turned out beautifully and we received lots of great compliments.  As for the weight loss, well it has obviously slowed considerably which means not only will I not win the challenge, but I'll not reach the 9 week goal I had set for myself, but it will come eventually.

So why do I share this personal story on a wedding blog?  I want to share my lessons with you in hope that you will learn from my recent challenges.

1. Detours happen.  Even when planning fairytale weddings.
2. It is not the end of the world.  As a matter of fact, the changes will probably be better.
3. You don't have to do it all alone.  I learned of strengths my staff had that I didn't know they possessed until I was forced to give up some control to them.  (Great job, Meg!)
4. Examine your priorities.  I signed up to lose 10lbs in 9 weeks and 5 weeks in I had lost 7.  Even with a broken toe and next to nil exercise, I am down 12lbs in 8 weeks.  I had lost site of the fact that my goal was not to win the challenge itself, but to win in my personal goals of weight loss, which I've already done.  Yes, I want to lose about 5 more, but I have the tools to make it happen now.

~ Jami

Meet Meg!

Well, I believe I am the last blogger to submit my information…which says something about me right off the bat.  I am a horrible procrastinator! If ever a blog is late, it is usually my fault.  I was supposed to have this “fun bio” finished approximately three weeks ago…good thing Mom is “the boss.” That’s right – Jami is my mom.  

My name is Meg and I’m part time staff for Details because I’m a full time college student in Columbus, Ohio.  I attend a small, private school called Capital University and I absolutely love it!  My majors are public relations and political science pre-law.  I like to think doing work for Details – planning weddings, events, etc – is good for my public relations major.  Kind of like intern work except I get paid and does it count if you work for your mom…? I guess we’ll see. It’s good experience working with people, if nothing else.  I really love the creative side of this business too…it’s really fun helping a bride express herself and show her personality through her wedding.  Of course, everyone is different so every wedding is different which means we’re never doing the same thing. 

Hmm…what else can I tell you about myself? One of my favorite things to do is go on adventures with my friends.  We just pick a place and drive and drive until we find something to do.  I guess it’s the spontaneity that we love and just being together.  That says something about my perspective on life, at least at the moment.  I know that there are certain things in life that need to be done – like going to class, writing papers, studying for tests…all that kind of stuff but I also don’t want to let life pass me by.  When I look back on this time that I’ve spent in college, I want to know that I made the most of it.  I like to make the most of everything really. 

Something else that is really important to me is my family.  Since I don’t live anywhere close to my immediate family or close to my extended family either, for that matter, I try to see them as much as possible when the opportunity presents itself.

I think those are the most important things about me.  Thanks for listening and continue to visit our blog for great tips and tricks!

~Meg 

I love spandex for events. What a clean look and the colors are awesome! http://ping.fm/ApjJu

Considering event insurance? Not a bad idea with companies going out of business http://ping.fm/P0r8z

Help with selecting your wedding colors http://ping.fm/aP00r

"I already have a wedding planner. She's with my venue."

Don't Let This Become You!

I recently spoke with a bride who was excited to announce she already had a wedding planner - through her venue.  My first thought was, "Oh, you have no idea!", but I very briefly explained the difference without trying to sound like I was making a sales pitch.  I honestly feel for brides who expect their venue-supplied wedding planner to actually fulfill that role. 

Ladies, a venue "wedding planner" is not a professional, full-service wedding planner looking out for your best interest!  The "wedding planner" supplied by the venue is a sales person who has been hired to promote their venue as a viable option to the wedding market.  This wedding salesperson will provide the following services:

• Provide a tour of the venue
• Make menu recommendations
• Create your Banquet Event Order outlining your event specifics
• Arrange for a tasting
• Oversee setup as it pertains to the venue responsibilities
• Act as a liaison between your professional wedding planner and the venue staff
• Communicate to the venue staff contract specifications
• Process your invoices

Depending on the services you select, a professional wedding planner (Details included!) will provide the following services:

• Act as your personal representative with your venue and other suppliers (baker, photographer, florist, etc.)
• Recommend suppliers that meet your budget, style and personality
• Pass along discounts provided to the planner by the suppliers
• Negotiate contracts (including with the venue "wedding planner")
• Preview facilities to ensure layout will work for your event
• Meet with suppliers along with bride and/or groom and, if necessary, meet with suppliers in place of the bride and groom
• Assist with etiquette and protocal
• Create timelines and keep everyone on track
• Manage your total budget
• Create a supplier payment schedule with reminders sent in advance to the person responsible for payment
• Create room layouts
• Design all printed pieces to ensure cohesive look from start to finish
• Design decor for ceremony and reception (and rehearsal dinner, engagement parties, etc)
• Act as liaison between family members and bridal party
• Stuff, address, stamp and mail invitations
• Track rsvps
• Direct the rehearsal
• Direcet the ceremony
• Direct the reception
• Secure room blocks and arrange for transportation
• Oversee all setup and teardown
• Be onsite throughout entire event
• Review final catering bill for accuracy
• *AND MUCH MORE!

Ask yourself this one question:  Who is signing the paycheck of the venue "wedding planner"? 

I hope this clarifies any confusion, but should you have questions, please contact us at jami@detailsplanningcompany.com

~ Jami

Link to Our Graphics Samples

Details offers custom design services to ensure your theme is evident on every element from start to finish.  You can view samples by clicking here to be taken to our graphics site.  Or you can click the link at left.

Details can easily provide graphics services anywhere in the United States.  A new website offers private viewing to customers.  Ask us for a quote on your next printed items!

Meet Carolyn!

My name is Carolyn Fraser and I’m the Marketing Director for ACME Corp. Production Resources. We provide dramatic lighting décor for events. I’ve worked at ACME for 2 years, and I really enjoy being a part of the events industry and working with brides, planners like Jami, caterers, and more.


In my free time I like to keep busy with many different activities and hobbies. I love tennis, and have played on a number of different teams and leagues throughout the years. I also began training for a marathon two years ago, but life and work got in the way, so I haven’t made it to the finish line yet. I do hope to one day complete that goal and run my first race! In the meantime I also experiment with my creative, artistic side once in awhile, through abstract painting. I am a movie buff as well. I love romantic comedies, horror movies, and psychological thrillers. The whole experience of seeing a new movie in the theater (complete with popcorn of course) is so fun, and maybe because I was an Advertising major, I can never miss the previews!
Overall, I am a very social person and love to go out with my friends and spend time with my boyfriend when I’m not working at ACME.

This photo was taken at the Milwaukee Auto Show this past summer, where I got to see a Smart Car up close and personal. Before that, I thought my Mazda 3 was small! No pun intended, but I chose this picture to demonstrate that I have a creative drive and a passion for connecting with people. This can be a blessing and a curse at the same time, as I often try to be in three places at once; between work, social life, and taking on volunteer projects, I occasionally bite off more than I can chew. At least I’ve learned how to organize and manage my time.

On that note, I’ll wrap up by saying that I am looking forward to contributing as a guest blogger for Details! Hopefully you will enjoy learning more about our world, through reading advice and perspectives from a number of different experts within the events industry. We want you to have fun while gaining some important information along the way. Please provide comments and feedback on what you would like to hear from us. Please also visit ACME’s website and connect with us through our social media sites: Twitter @acmemilwaukee, Facebook, and our company blog.
Thanks for reading!

~ Carolyn

Beautiful hair accessories for the bride http://ping.fm/dofa5

Go green for your wedding http://ping.fm/SQq8O

It's Not Easy Being Green. Or Is It?

Our mascot, Prince, believes it's easy to be green and so do we.  There are a lot of options to reducing waste and treading lightly on our earth, even when it involves the biggest party of your life.  Here are a few ideas:

• Donate leftover food rather than throwing it out.  If you call your local shelter in advance, they often can make arrangements to have someone pick it up from your venue.
• Register only for what you need then give your guests the name of your favorite charity they can donate to in your name.
• Instead of favors, leave a card at each placesetting stating your donation to a charity in their name.
• Select a green favor - saplings, seeds, bamboo stalk, etc.
• Minimize the amount of driving your guests need to do by either hosting both ceremony and reception in one location, or by providing a shuttle.
• Use recycled papers for your printed items or consider sending e-invites (Details has an exclusive discount with http://www.ourwedvite.com/)
• Create a personal website (some are offered free) and allow guests to rsvp online rather than send response cards.
• Go retro with your ring by purchasing an antique.  If you don't like the style, you can save the stone and have the metal melted down and redesigned to fit your personal style.
• Purchase locally, organically grown flowers which trims transit and pesticides.

Share your own green ideas with us!

~Jami

Just how much is too much? I think this dress qualifies http://ping.fm/sxbXf

I love looking at wedding cake ideas! There are some really talented people out there, like Ron Ben-Israel http://ping.fm/5X1Qh

The first issue of Wedbits a monthly newsletter for brides who want to know, if available for viewing Wedbits for brides - http://eepurl.com/d1Li

Wedding Trends and Tips for 2010 Brides

If you are planning a 2010 wedding, like most of those brides, you’re probably curious as to what the trends are and how you can pull off the look for less money. Let me start by saying that I would much rather a bride come to me with a budget – no matter how high or low – so that I can use my creative skills and deliver an amazingly beautiful event. Weddings in 2010 will be focusing on your style and interests as a couple, creating a highly personalized memory for you and your guests.

Homemade wedding favors are a way to still offer a small thank you to your guests without blowing your budget. Don’t have the time, interest, or skill to pull this off? At Details, it is one of the services we offer – researching suggestions and even producing the favors themselves. I encourage brides to gift a consumable wrapped in lovely packaging. Nobody needs another trinket! Aren't these great? Stuff them with whatever your heart desires!

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a popular trend that makes sense on several levels. For instance, many designers offer a color and fabric swatch book which can be used for any dress in their line. Select a color from the swatch book and let your bridesmaids select the style of dress that looks best on their body type. Or, do the reverse by selecting the style and let them pick the color (within a range so it doesn’t look like a rainbow!) You can use the latter method and they can purchase an off the rack dress. Just make sure to set the formality level before they shop.

Start planning a year in advance if at all possible. This not only reduces stress, but allows you time to make good decisions and shop for deals.

Floral needs can take a huge bite out of your budget. By thinking seasonally and using flowers that are in season in your local area, you can reduce costs tremendously. Also, there are some amazing centerpiece options that are easily created with items from hardware and dollar stores. A good planner should be able to share these options with you and even create them during (or before) setup. I admit, I'm gaga over the sample at the right! Let your favors be the centerpiece!

Dessert buffets and candy stations are popular for good reason. Both offer lots of options for guests, a lovely, colorful display, and a lower cost than the traditional wedding cake. Sold on having a cake? Purchase a smaller cake and elevate it on a lovely cake stand for presence. Have several smaller cakes beautifully made and display on stands of varying heights! Make this even more of an eye catcher by adding colorful lighting.

Scratch the disposable cameras. You’ll end up with poor photos, shots you wish you had never seen, and paying for processing of only a few images. Not to mention the cost of the cameras themselves! I know it sounds tacky, but it’s not – hire a photobooth! You’ll get some really fun shots that you’ll cherish the rest of your lives and your friends will have a great time playing in it.

Think outside the box for your wedding gown. Realistically, you’re going to wear this once and pack it away. Consider renting, purchasing a used gown (some have never been worn!), or vintage. Another option is to gather photos of your dream look and hire a seamstress or fashion design student to create your custom look. Work with a local design school and offer a contest for the design of your dress offering a cash payout.

~Jami

Tux shops often give one free rental for signing your wedding party. Pass this savings on to the father-of-the bride who's footing the bill!

"The Office" has a big wedding on Thursday! Take a peak at Pam's dress http://ping.fm/jhuH7

Check out these beautiful cake toppers! Oohh-la-la! http://ping.fm/im1Z0

Etiquette says to leave their names off the inviation if you don't want children attending. Afraid you're guests won't get it? On the rsvp, state, "We hope the two of you will be able to join us."

"Hello, My Name Is . . ."

Sometimes it's nice to know a little bit about the people behind the blogs you read so we're going to take the opportunity over the next few weeks to get a little personal with you. We'll still have our regular tip article on Mondays, but midweek be sure to check back and meet our bloggers and our staff. So, let's get this party started!

I'm Jami and I'm the owner of Details. My degree is in graphic design, but in 1996 I was hijacked by a Fortune 500 company to plan their national sales meeting. I not only single-handedly coordinated the event, but I also created all of the print design that was associated with event, including a training manual. From there, a new passion and career was born. But, that's boring stuff! On to what is really important . . .

Average has never been a goal. To me, being average is like drinking bottled water that has been left in your hot car all day. I have one, and only one, husband and two children - none of which are average, they're exceptional! : ) I have one dog and three cats and trust me, none of them are averge either.

My favorite colors are green, purple, and zebra. If you've never done a study in color personality, you should, it's awesome. My mix pretty well sums me up. Zebra is awesome because it reminds me that God not only is creative, he likes to have a little fun, too. Seriously, black and white stripes on a horse, how cool is that!?

My favorite flower is the tulip. I like the simple elegance on the outside with the surprise inside - a little like me : ) The bright red ones with the shiny black star in the center are my favorites. Deliveries are accepted.

One of the first adjectives my family would probably use to describe me is compulsive. There is . . .

1. an off position for a light switch; it is down.


2. a correct way to place toilet tissue on a holder; over, not under.


3. a correct way to place a plate which has a directional pattern; the pattern should be facing you.


4. a reason there are doors on closets and cabinets which is not so they can be left open.


5. a reason they make matching bras and panties.


6. a reason companies create rugs with fringe; to drive people like me crazy as we're constantly combing the tangles!

Jami

New trend in bachelor parties - adventurous weekend outings such as skydiving, kyaking, fishing, etc - forget the girls!

Selecting an Officiant

An easy detail to overlook in planning your wedding might be selecting your officiant. With all the other big decisions to make, it is easy to forget that you have to find someone to actually marry you. Some girls simply assume that it will be the pastor of the church they’ve grown up in; maybe he married her parents and even baptized her as a child. It is important not to forget that you still have to book the pastor – he has a schedule too!
Besides working out the scheduling, there are a few other things that you will want to discuss with your officiant of choice…things that need to be worked out before you book him or her.


~ Will there be a charge for his services? If so, what are they and how will that number fit into your budget?


~ Is experience important to you? How many couples has he married over the years?


~ If you want to personalize your wedding (write your own vows, have someone other than your father walk you down the aisle, etc.), discuss these changes with your officiant. Some will only perform traditional services.


~ Do you and your groom need to attend premarital counseling in order to book your pastor or clergy member? How do you feel about that?


~ Does he have a backup in the event of an emergency?


~ If you are not getting married in his church, will he still perform the wedding? Is he comfortable with the alternate location you’ve chosen?


~ Even if you don’t have an officiant in mind yet, these are things that still need to be talked about. You may be more or less willing to compromise with his preferences depending on how important his presence is to you.

Designing a new e-newsletter and contemplating the new look for our website. Big changes coming soon!

Meet Our Wedding Mascot!

Be sure to say hello to Prince!

First Name: Prince

Last Name: Charming

Physical Characteristics: short and stout with the promise becoming tall, dark, and handsome

Goal in Life: to Live Happily Ever After

Special Gift: Great kisser!

A great resource for event planners and brides http://ping.fm/2nRzZ

Of course, you'll want to personalize your toast, but here are a few samples to stir your creative juices http://ping.fm/Qb7fi

I have to admit, I think these are funny http://ping.fm/C3PKo

Favors with a conscience - on the table assignment, let guests know that you donated to a charity in their name

Some mom & pop suppliers will say that they do not use contracts. Protect yourself by typing up a contract listing specifics for your event!

Who's Responsible? A look at wedding party roles. http://ping.fm/F6qoR

Who's Responsible? A Look at Bridal Party Roles

The reason we select our maid of honor and bridesmaids isn’t just because they’re close family or friends…we choose them also because we know we can count on them to fulfill certain responsibilities. The bride and groom have many decisions to make before the wedding day arrives and it should be a comfort to both to know that they can count on those standing up with them to help out in different ways. Some may not be familiar with the traditional roles of various bridal party members. Here’s a quick refresher so that you know what can be expected of your attendants -

1. Maid of Honor – Usually one of the most important and influential people in the bride’s life. She is someone the bride trusts and because of their relationship, the bride may call on her maid of honor to help her make important wedding decisions. Some of her other responsibilities include throwing the bridal shower, deciding and pulling together the gift that the bridal party gives to the bride and groom, walking in the wedding processional, holding the bride’s flowers during the wedding ceremony and the groom’s ring until the bride places it upon his finger, and traditionally, she is also there to witness the signing of the marriage license.

2. Best Man – Also a very important person in the wedding as well as the groom’s life. Generally speaking, the groom is much less involved in the actual planning of the wedding than the maid of honor or the bridesmaids. He is assigned certain duties as well including planning the bachelor party, organizing the gift the groomsmen give the bride and groom, holding the bride’s ring during the ceremony, witnessing the signing of the wedding license, making a toast to the bride and groom at the reception, participate in the receiving line and he is also responsible for making sure that the bride and groom have transportation to their next destination - usually their honeymoon.

3. Bridesmaids – Though less involved in wedding planning than, say, the maid of honor, they still have important roles throughout the planning of the wedding, the wedding itself, and reception. They are expected to attend the bridal shower, help the ushers (or groomsmen) seat wedding guests, participate in the receiving line and to generally help the bride whenever called on throughout the night.

4. Groomsmen – The male equivalent of the bridesmaids, they do much of the same things throughout the wedding and reception. They are expected to attend the bachelor party, help seat guests along with the bridesmaids, participate in the receiving line and assist the groom or bride whenever called on to do so.

Now, we know that this might all seem very complicated and knowing that certain things are to be expected of each member of the bridal party can make it even more difficult to choose each one but keep in mind that these people are your helpers. If you make the right decision, it should ultimately make your life a little easier.

Don't panic at the price! These are stunning and can be placed on every other or every third table. http://ping.fm/7q9qU

Brides - don't forget to eat! Stash an energy or protein bar in your take-along kit and consume it before the ceremony or immediately before the reception.

Create a new email account for wedding-related lists. Delete once you're wed, no more harassing emails!

Is your best friend the best fit? http://ping.fm/RdmD9

Are Your Best Friends the Best Fit?

A girl doesn't need to think too hard when asked who her maid of honor will be. It might be the girl who’s been her best friend since they were five years old or maybe her old college roommate. But how do you choose the other important people that you want to stand up with you in your wedding? Before you make that decision, you need to have a specific number in mind. Your wedding budget will help determine how many will be in your wedding party. Here are some important things to keep in mind when choosing your attendants:

~ Which of your friends are you closest to? Are there certain people who expect to stand up with you on your wedding day?

~ Can these chosen few afford the costs that go along with being a part of the wedding party? (attire, special showers/parties)

~ Will they be able to handle the responsibilities that go along with the honor?

~ Are you financially able to pay for bouquets for the bridesmaids and boutonnieres for the groomsmen?

~ Are you prepared to buy gifts for all attendants?

The general room of thumb is one usher and one bridesmaid for every 50 guests invited. This can be a sensitive process, as some feelings may inevitably be hurt. However, this is your day and while the feelings of your close friends and family are important to consider, don’t forget about your own feelings in the process.

Next blog - Who's Responsible? A Look at Bridal Party Roles

Please keep the memory video at your wedding reception to no more than 10 minutes. Do you want to sit and watch 20 minutes of someone's childhood?

Welcome to our two new part-time staffers Ashley and Erica!

When shopping for a wedding dress, bring inspiration photos to share with clerks. Then, be open to their ideas, too.

Coming Soon!

I hope that you had a wonderfully relaxing and fun Labor Day weekend. We did! Which is why there was not a blog posted on Monday!

We'll be back on again next Monday with some great advice!

Jami

What are you doing to cut wedding costs? My recommendations? Trim the guest list, trim the alcohol, adjust day/time.

Keep the party vib and the convos going with the latest trend - small plates of varying appetizers served to guests

New updates! http://ping.fm/GFn7s

Just added to our preferred supplier list - Advanced Entertainment DJ Service - Save the $200 booking fee! http://www.aedj.com/

Looking to cut costs on your wedding flowers? Decorate every third pew or eliminate pew decorations altogether!

Great source of specialty bags and boxes for your event favors! http://ping.fm/ROhU4

Great deals on vases and candles holders for your decor! http://ping.fm/3fCtz

Two items to consider when trying to meet the wedding budget - the number of guests on your list and the type of style (dinner, cocktails, brunch, lunch, tea).

http://ping.fm/bnliQ How to get the perfect planner.

Check out www.momentville.com which offers free wedding websites with an awesome selection of themes . . . or you can create your own look!

The ABCs of Creating a Guest List http://ping.fm/pPku8

And She's Off!

Megan will still be blogging for Details and updating our Facebook among other items while she is away at college, but she'll be missed here at the office!

We have a long list of topics we'd like to cover but also want to hear what you think would make for interesting blogging. Share your thoughts below!

A great comment was posted on 8.11.09 in response to our information on engagement rings. Check out the comment and our reply to learn about more options available to brides!

The ABCs of Creating a Guest List

The ABCs of Creating a Guest List

Creating and editing your wedding guest list is a very tricky, and sometimes sticky, thing to do. Unfortunately, resizing your guest list is a necessary part of wedding planning. Your guest list determines your budget, your venue, your catering and many other parts of the big day. It is imperative that any issues regarding your list be figured out as soon as possible in order to minimize extra stress and know exactly what you’re getting yourself into financially as well. As mentioned before, it is no walk through the park and here are some tips to help you figure out who gets a spot on your list and who gets the ax.

• Some planners suggest starting with your “fantasy list” – everyone you can think of to invite to your wedding. This is a good place to start because you know you won’t be forgetting anyone. From there, you can eliminate those you don’t want, or need, to invite.
  
• Put a star next to, or underline, those that absolutely must be at your wedding, like parents and the closest relatives and friends. These are the people that have to receive an invitation and are the most likely to attend. We’ll call them “Tier A”.
  
• Next choose a way of selecting the “Tier B” friends and family. These may be distant cousins or old friends that you were close with but haven’t seen in a while. This group of people is going to be different for everyone because only you can decide if it is really necessary for them to receive an invitation. These invitees have about an equal chance of attending as they do not attending.
  
• The third and final group of people is “Tier C.” These are the people that you need to send an invitation to for etiquette reasons but you really don’t expect to come. Again, this group will be defined differently for each person.
  
  

Here are some tips for narrowing down the guest list quickly:

• If you have a tight budget, it is okay to eliminate all of Tier C. Most people will understand that in these tough economic times, cost comes into play in some of these decisions. Don’t feel bad about not inviting them – it is sometimes necessary.
  
• Talk with your fiancée and family about asking that children be left out of the festivities. This can quickly knock guests off your list as well. You will need to specify on the invitations that children are not included. For example, you may want to address the invitation and RSVP to Mr. and Mrs. Smith instead of the Smith Family.
  
• Thinking about inviting co-workers? Maybe just invite people from your department or your close working group instead of the entire office. Or you can nix co-workers altogether…that may eliminate a large group, too. If anyone asks, simply explain that you’re inviting only very close friends and family members. They should understand.

Details will be out of the office (in other words, not posting fascinating tidbits) until Tuesday, September 1. Enjoy your weekend!

Looking to cut wedding costs? Trim the guest list. The average cost $100pp for a sit down dinner reception. Cutting just 10 people saves $1000!

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Post-Wedding Blues

A wedding can takes months, sometimes years, to plan – for a one day event! So what happens when after all the focus, effort, money and time you have put into planning this day, it’s suddenly over? Approximately one out of ten brides experiences the post-wedding blues. It can be confusing to feel sad after you’ve experienced the happiest day of your life but when you begin to analyze the reasons why you feel that way, it makes perfect sense. A day you’ve been looking forward to your whole life, or at least since you met Mr. Right, is over and now life has to go back to normal. The focus is no longer on you as the beautiful bride. To top it off, the really big decisions of life are headed your way – which house to buy, when and how many kids to have, not to mention planning the rest of your life together. It can be all at once overwhelming and a huge disappointment. It doesn’t have to be this way though, not if you know what to do to pick yourself up from this temporary letdown.

~ You just married the love of your life…this should be exciting in and of itself! You get to spend every day with your best friend, the person who knows you best and makes you happiest.

~ Planning a wedding can be stressful, frustrating and definitely time consuming. Take some time to relax. Lounge around the house for a while, treat yourself to a day at the spa, reflect on the things you don’t have to do anymore, like go to appointments and make endless wedding decisions.

~ Since you probably didn’t see too much of your family and friends while you were caught up in a wedding frenzy, spend some quality time with them now that you have the extra time.

~ The post-wedding blues can lead many couples to feel nostalgic about the days just before their wedding. Focus those feelings and energy on creating a scrapbook of your pictures and memories together, watch your wedding video or just spend a day reliving the special moments with your new spouse.

~ If you miss the planning phase of your life before the wedding, try planning a dinner party at your new home that you’ve created with your spouse. Invite friends and family over to enjoy their company and to show off your new place and life!

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Adorable for a beach wedding! http://ping.fm/lN6Uz

Your guest list has a huge impact on the budget. Take time to make a preliminary list for a more accurate count before beginning other plans.

Thinking an outdoor event is less costly? Maybe. Maybe not. A long list of rentals and the contingency plan for foul weather can quickly add huge sums.

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Social networkers check out www.ping.fm! A free service worth its weight in gold!

Check out new the new blog update! http://ping.fm/ukWaP

Prewedding Jitters?

It is perfectly normal to be a little nervous or stressed before your wedding day, whether it be a few months or only a few days prior to the event. However, it is extremely important to analyze your feelings behind these pre-wedding jitters in order to figure out if this is something you should really be concerned about.

Cold feet before your big day can be caused by a variety of different things. It can be brought on by your own personal insecurities, serious doubts about your relationship with your fiancée or sometimes just the stress of planning such a costly and time-consuming event. Some women have a difficult time with the identity shift that takes place after getting married. This usually occurs in brides who love their single life or are very involved in their career. They may have a hard time adjusting their self-image to include that of a wife or a one man woman. If you feel this may be the cause of your cold feet, here are some helpful things that experts suggest you can do:

• Take the time to sort out your feelings about being engaged. Did you expect it to be picture perfect? If the reality isn’t like you thought it would be, this may be the source of some of your negative feelings.

• If you’re having a hard time letting go of your single-girl image, reflect on the times and certain things you valued in that period of your life. Once you have taken some time to think about each of these things, it may bring you some closure and help you to accept the new life you will be beginning with your special someone.

• It may also be helpful to you to determine how the different relationships you have with family and friends will change with your fiancée becoming your husband and a more permanent part of your life. You can get a better idea of the changes that are coming and be better prepared for them.
  

If you are having some serious doubts about your relationship or your fiancée, it may be best to go to pre-marital counseling and see the help of a professional. Issues like previous infidelities, either by you or your partner, a drug or alcohol addiction that has not been dealt with or real personality conflicts are something that need to be dealt with before you say, “I do.” In some cases, it may lead to postponing or calling off the wedding altogether. As difficult as this may be to do, it is better to end the relationship before you get married as opposed to dealing with the problems months or years down the road.

Sometimes it’s just the stresses of planning a wedding that catch up with a bride. If this is the case with you, just take some time off from planning the wedding so that you do not become overwhelmed or let your feelings about the event impact your feelings about your relationship. Heck, maybe hiring a wedding planner is just what you need!

Engagement Ring Trends

While some women may prefer the classic diamond solitaire engagement ring, others want something a little different, a little trendier. We’ve researched the top engagement ring trends so that you can be in style AND discover a ring you will love.

Colorful gems have been brought into style by celebrities. Instead of a white diamond, why not check out engagement rings with rubies, sapphires or other neutral colored gems as the centerpiece? What a beautiful way to make your ring stand out from all the rest.

Everything is about going green these days and engagement rings are no exception. If this sounds like your thing, look into purchasing a ring with recycled metals and U.N. approved diamonds.

Many websites suggest that engagement ring bands covered in tiny diamonds are the next new fad. Designers believe it makes the center diamond look larger and of course, adds more dazzle to the entire ring.

Raised ring settings are also becoming very popular as are twisted bands. These are simple yet beautiful ways to add a little something extra to your ring without going overboard on the bling.

Something that has been around for years but is definitely making a comeback is having an inscription made on the inside of the ring. This could be your wedding date, a favorite quote or something as straightforward as initials engraved inside. Or, try the latest trend of capturing your fiance's fingerprint inside your band!

There are many different ways to make your engagement ring more unique so check out the endless possibilities for yourself if this is something that interests you.

This is only a brief, brief overview of what all you can do. You want your ring to be as individual as you are.

Quest for the Best

Beginning your search for the perfect wedding dress can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are, however, many different things to remember before you start looking. Here are some tips to make your “quest for the dress” an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Before you head out…

~ As mentioned in the previous blog entry, have in mind a specific style of dress that you want – this will help narrow down your search before you even begin.

~ Ask only one or two people close to you (like your mother or one of the bridesmaids) whose opinions you trust to go with you to try dresses on…this way you aren’t getting caught up in too many different opinions

~ Don’t plan to try on dresses while you are on your period or PMSing. Many women experience bloating during this time and are maybe not their normal size.

~ If you have a certain piece of jewelry, an heirloom such as a veil, or some other item that it is important you wear on your wedding day, take that along with you when you try on dresses. You will want to make sure everything coordinates.

~ Make appointments at the different stores or boutiques where you plan on shopping for your gown. This assures that you have the attention of a sales consultant who may be very helpful in your “quest”. Just don’t put too much stock into their opinions – many are paid on commission and may be more intent on getting you to buy the more expensive dress rather than the one that is the most flattering on you.

~ Do not wear make-up when you’re going to try on dresses or at least call ahead to see if the stores will allow you to wear it. Some do not because they don’t want to risk the make-up getting on one of the gowns.

~Most importantly, give yourself as much time as possible to find the dress of your dreams. If you can, allow yourself nine months because fittings should begin at six months before the big day.

While you’re there…
~ Figure out which kind of dress looks best on your body type and narrow your search down to those dresses (as long as you like the style, of course!)

~ Take a look at bridesmaids dresses…not for your bridesmaids but for you. You may find one in white or off-white that would work just as well as a wedding dress but it will be much, much cheaper.

~ For goodness sake, find a dress that you FEEL COMFORTABLE in! This is so important! If you don’t want to be pulling up your dress all night, don’t buy a strapless gown. If you want to breathe easily, watch out for too much boning. You wouldn’t want your day to be ruined because of your dress!

~ This is so important too – buy a dress that feels like you. Don’t let yourself get talked into a dress you don’t like or isn’t your style by someone else. Find the dress that you love and that conveys your own personal style. You want to feel confident in your dress!

Choosing a Custom Gown: Pros, Cons and How-To

Most girls are dreaming about their wedding day before they even hit puberty. And what is usually the fixture of that fantasy (aside from the groom, of course)? The wedding dress. Everyone wants to be especially exquisite on their big day and the gown plays a huge part in making the bride look like a princess. Searching for your perfect dress can be a little more stressful than what the fairytale implies. Experts agree that brides should begin their search about six months before the wedding day since it will not only take some time to pick out their dress but it is also time consuming to have it fitted and altered. Maybe you’ve already been looking for months and know exactly what you want by now but simply can’t seem to find what you have in mind. Or maybe you don’t want to shop for a dress that’s already made – you want something more special, a little more unique. This is the point where you want some advice on having a custom gown made because you’re unsure of where to begin and if this is the right choice for you. Here are some pros and cons of having a dress made especially for you…

Pros
~ If you already know what style looks best on you, or how you want your dress to look, you can take your design and ideas to a seamstress and have the gown you’ve always dreamed of instead of settling for something that’s close to what you want.
~ You know no one else is wearing your exact dress and that what you’ll be wearing on your wedding day is totally unique.
~ Your gown is created not just for your body “type” but for your actual body. For example, women with larger busts may have difficulty finding a dress that fits them just right because most ready-made dresses are made for B, sometimes C, cup bust lines.
~ You will have an heirloom for generations to come.
~ You are involved in every detail of the design of your dress – you have total control! (Yes, bridezillas, this means you)

Cons
~ You won’t be able to see your dream gown in reality until it is finished.
~ Custom gowns can be more costly than ready-made dresses – however, this depends on how much you have allotted for your wedding dress budget. Expect to pay anywhere between $500 to $5,000 for a custom dress.

Tips
~ Even if you know you want your dress custom made, if you haven’t already, go to a few local bridal shops and try on different dress styles to see which is most flattering for your body. This will give you a better idea of what you want to be asking of the seamstress.
~ Ask friends and family for seamstress references – using someone who has already been “tested” by someone you know and trust can put your mind at ease.
~ To make everything a little simpler, decide on the payment plan and scheduling ahead of time.
~ Allow at least six months for this entire process as the dress not only has to be created, but there are multiple fittings involved which are spread out over a few months.
~ Most importantly, no matter how stressful this whole process may be, remember to relax and enjoy all of it. This is supposed to be fun, too!

The Engagement Photo

Having an engagement picture taken is a great idea for many reasons. It may be something you hadn't thought about just yet (with all the other decisions that are weighing on your mind!) but here's a few reasons you might want to consider it -

1. It's great documentation of one of the happiest moments of your lives. Some brides may choose to use as their engagement photo one that they have taken themselves, the day they became engaged. Doing it this way can capture those joyful memories right when they happen.

2. Maybe you've dreamed of submitting your engagement photo to your local newspaper since you were a little girl. Even if you don't still live in the town you grew up in, it's a nice way to keep old friends and family up-to-date with what's going on in your life. Every newspaper has their own requirements but most ask not just for the picture, but also the bride and groom's names, current city and jobs, high schools, colleges attended, and of course the parents' names. Some newspapers even allow you to submit all of his information online. If you decide you're going to submit your picture to your local newspaper, make sure you send it in at least six weeks before the event although three months ahead is generally preferred.

3. Having your engagement photo taken is also a great way to test out the photographer you've booked for the big day. Many photographers include this in the packages they offer - take advantage of it.

4. One of the last reasons you may want to have an engagement photo shoot is to put that picture on save-the-dates, invitations or little favors you may hand out to guests at the reception. Of course, if you're going to go this route, make sure you ask to see the pictures ahead of time!

A few last minute thoughts....
Before having your pictures taken, think about how you are planning to use them. This will help determine where you want to have the shoot at and in what style. Share this information with your photographer as well so he is clued in to what is going on. He may have some helpful tips of his own to share.

Determine Your Budget

It seems as though everyone is trying to figure out how to better manage their budget these days. Engaged couples are no exception. Planning a wedding is a huge undertaking and the first, and most important, thing couples need to do is set their budget. The average wedding costs $28,000 – an incredibly large sum of money! It isn’t an easy task, deciding how much to spend on your dream day, but it’s something that becomes much more manageable when you consider these guidelines.

1. Determine where the money is coming from. It is tradition for the bride’s parents to foot the bill for the wedding but that is becoming less and less common. If you are getting money from your parents, or his, find out just how much that is and then decide if you think that is enough. Maybe you, or your fiancée, will want to begin saving your own money to pay for your big day.

2. Oftentimes, a big deciding factor in what a wedding budget will be is how many guests are invited to the reception. The more guests you have attending, the more expensive the wedding will be. If you are looking for a quick, if not altogether easy, way to cut costs, the best way to do so is by shortening the guest list. Keep in mind – an average wedding size is 150, a large and expensive wedding would be attended by 250 or more.

3. Something else to consider – figure out what you want your wedding theme to be. Once you have determined this, you can begin researching tips on how to save money according to your particular style. There are literally thousands of websites on the internet that provide hints as to how to cut costs.

4. One of the best things you can do to eliminate stress for yourself when you’re planning your wedding is to decide just how you’re going to spend your budget. How much are you willing to spend on your dress? Your reception venue? Your catering and drinks? These are very important things to consider and can keep you from going over your budget.

Choosing a Style for Your Wedding

First and foremost the style of your wedding should reflect who you and your fiance are together. What is it that makes the two of you so special? Are you a casual, outdoorsy couple? Is your favorite date a trip to the contemporary art museum? Identifying your personal style will help you determine the style for your wedding.

Once you’ve determined the basic direction of your wedding style, discuss with your fiance all the various options of how your style could be represented in your wedding. Don’t disregard ideas that others may have, including parents. They may surprise you with some great ideas or tips!

Hiring a professional planner can help you organize your thoughts and ideas into a cohesive style and keep you on track to achieve your custom look with less stress and less of your time wasted. Be sure to check out our idea albums on our Facebook Page.

Working through the following statements can be a starting point to determining the style of your wedding:

Rank the following in order of importance:
___food
___photography
___aesthetics (flowers, decor, ambiance)
___liquor
___music
___convenience
___apparel
___spirituality
___family & friends

When I reflect back on our wedding, I want most to remember:
___How exciting everything was
___How romantic it was
___How beautiful it was
___How proper everything was
___How smoothly and easily everything went
___How happy my parents, family, and friends were

The following terms most define me and/or my fiance:
___romantic
___bold
___soft
___artsy
___classic
___exotic
___clean
___contemporary
___traditional
___dynamic
___simple
___eclectic
___formal
___casual

___semi-formal


Most importantly have fun with it and enjoy the process!

Creating an Idea File

In my opinion, this is one of the most fun aspects of planning your wedding. First, develop a system for organizing your ideas. This may be an accordion folder with several pockets, a notebook dedicated just for this purpose, or a scrapbook or journal. If you are a creative person, the scrapbook and journal options offer opportunity for sketching and jotting down thoughts and will allow you a keepsake to treasure after the event. A file folder will allow you to best organize your ideas into categories, for instance, "bouquets", "centerpieces", "cakes", "bridesmaid dresses", etc.

Next, think outside the box. Wedding publications are the obvious places to look for inspiration and can be extremely helpful. However, your garden, paint store, or favorite dress might provide that perfect color or bouquet flower.

If you are using a file folder, you can tear out and place an entire page into the appropriate pocket, such as "dress ideas". A folder will also hold brochures and business cards collected at bridal shows.

While you can certainly make notes and place them in a folder, it can also be insightful to use a large journal. Get creative! Instead of securing a full or partial page clipped at 90 degree angles to the journal, cut around the shape of the photo you have collected. Jot notes listing what you like about the item. Love the bodice of the dress but wish it had a mermaid skirt? Make the note . . . even include a sketch with a drawing pencil or colored pencils. Include the date and jot down your wedding thoughts for that day.

Intersperse a few personal photos of you and your fiance or have someone snap a few shots of you and your bridesmaids dress shopping. Have each girl write a short comment stating what she enjoyed most about the day. Spa day with mom? Include it, too!

Looking back on your thoughts and dreams will bring fond memories and create a wonderful legacy for those who follow. It might even be nice to display it at the ceremony!

Why Should I Hire a Planner? Why Details?

Why Hire a Planner?

Let’s face it – when most of us think of wedding coordinators we think pretentious, costly and unnecessary. The way movies and TV shows portray them, one might think a wedding planner is only for the very rich and extravagant but that’s just not true. Having one assist you can make your life much, much easier and make your wedding more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some reasons why you should consider hiring a wedding coordinator.

Your Time Saved – Part of a wedding planner’s job is to research vendors and details for you. Without a wedding planner, the bride is left to do this for herself which takes a lot of time and energy.

Your Money Saved – Since wedding planners are so well acquainted with various vendors, they can work with each to negotiate special pricing for you. They also work with you to create a personal budget – and help you stick with it.

Your Relationships Saved – Because planning a wedding can be so stressful, it is easy to find yourself bickering with your friends and family. A wedding planner does the jobs you might normally assign to those closest to you and in doing so, can save you unneeded grief and help make your day truly special for all.

Your Liaison – The average number of vendors for any given wedding is 22. Between squabbling with vendors and handling the concerns of your family and guests, a wedding planner can be your person with all the answers.

Your Scheduler – When your big day arrives, you don’t want to be worrying about where everyone is supposed to be, and where they actually are, at all times. Let your wedding planner create a schedule for everyone involved so that things will run smoothly.

Your Crisis Manager – It is almost inevitable that some crisis will occur on your wedding day and who better to turn to than a cool and calm professional who can handle the situation for you?

Your Peace of Mind – A wedding planner is helpful not only with the decision making in the months leading up to your special day but can also be there for you from your rehearsal to the reception. You want to relax and enjoy your day with those you love – not worry about all the details.

Your Inspirational Guide – Every bride and groom wants their wedding to stand out in the minds of their guests. A wedding planner has lots of great ideas on how to make your wedding one to remember.

Your Etiquette Guide – Weddings have a special decorum all their own and the language and tricks necessary in planning one may sound foreign to you, but your planner will be fluent. The professional planner understands exactly what you need.

Clean-up Director – This is something most brides and grooms may not consider much in advance because they are so focused on how things go ­during the event, as they should be. Let your wedding planner handle the aftereffects.

Your Personal Representative – Oftentimes, venues offer something called an event manager who says they can plan your wedding. A venue planner focuses on the details as they relate to their facility. The facility function is just one piece of a very large pie. A wedding planner is like your personal assistant; totally focused on you and your day as well as ALL aspects that you have selected they coordinate.

The Task Master – A wedding planner knows all there is to know about weddings, as they should since that is their job. Many brides do not realize the details, time and energy that go into a wedding but a wedding planner can make sure you have all your bases covered.

Why Hire Details?

Details has experience
· In coordinating all kinds of events
· In planning events with 25 to 1,000 attendees
· In locations in the United States as well as Mexico
· In negotiating contracts that save the client money
· In managing guest travel and accommodation arrangements

Details possess creativity
· With a background in graphic design that means your event will exude a better visual dynamic and cohesiveness
· With in-house design that saves you money from save-the-date cards to guest favors
· With everything created specifically for your personality and theme
· With the ability to see the smallest of details while still focusing on the big picture

Details offers unique benefits
· 13 years of event planning
· A degree in graphic design
· Members of MPI
· Exceptional attention to detail
· Structured and task-oriented
· Personal staff

Choosing the Date

Some couples know exactly where or when they’d like to get married. Others are more open – or indecisive! – about their important date. Whatever your situation you’ll want to keep in mind the following as you make your selection:


~ Consider your dream location (for wedding and reception) and contact the venue(s) for availability

~ Are the available dates for both the wedding and reception venue compatible?

~ Are the dates good for you and your fiancé? Do they conflict with school or work schedules?

~Are the available dates good for your potential guests? Do they conflict with holidays (which could be family time)? Would it require them to take time off from work or school? Some holidays work well for guests who need to travel in for the wedding (such as Labor Day or Memorial Day)

~ Will the available dates make securing rentals difficult (for instance finding an available tent over the 4th of July)

~ Is this the peak season for the venue? If so, are you okay with paying more?

~ Saturday is the most popular wedding day, expect higher fees, but it also allows guest more flexibility for traveling

~ Friday evening and Sunday weddings typically costs less

~ Does the available time work for you? Serving lunch or dinner can get expensive. Serving hor d’oeuvres or a brunch is an alternative

~ August, June, and July are the most popular wedding months followed by September, October, May, April, November, December, March, February, and January. Expect higher fees during peak months

~ Do you may have a particular honeymoon destination in mind which may dictate the month/season you select for your wedding date

~ If you are set on a specific look or theme (Mom’s garden with roses in bloom) this will dictate the month you will select and the location

~ If you are hoping to save money on decorations, some venues will already be festooned for certain times of the year – say with poinsettias at Christmas or lilies and palms near Easter

~ Maybe you are set on a particular color scheme, perhaps lilac and spring green, which lend themselves to a spring or summer wedding

~ Some brides are dead-set on hiring a particular planner; make sure he/she is not already booked for the date/time you have mind

Keep in mind, the earlier you plan, the more options you have – the early bird always has the best options!