August 22, 2009

Congratulations to Lindsey and Mark Sislo on your recent nuptials. I am so pleased that I could be a part of your day as your wedding planner. It was a wonderful time and I wish you both have all the happiness in the world. Here are some pictures of the memorable day.

Passion

This past weekend, I attended Julie & Julia with my oh so wonderful husband at the old theater in Birmingham and absolutely adored it. I have to tell you that is one of those movies that you could see over and over again. Basically, I know this movie will end up driving my husband crazy because I will want to watch it every time it comes on television. Ladies, I know you know what I am talking about.

Meryl Streep was amazing in her portrayal of Julia Child and Amy Adam’s character was equally adorable and fun to watch. I believe the best part of this movie, however was the passion each woman possessed for food and cooking. I instantly felt a connection to these women because of it. What I love about passion is that once you find it, you cannot get enough of it nor do you feel as alive doing anything else. I feel so lucky to have found wedding planning and only hope that my passion for the business continues until I am old and gray.

First Fitting

I recently shared in the joy of attending the first dress fitting with one of my brides and loved every minute of it. My absolute favorite moment is watching a bride put on her very own dress on for the first time and then seeing that noticeable expression of excitement in her face. I also love it when the mother of the bride, friends and other families attend to support the bride and gush over the dress. I always encourage this!

Attending the first fitting can also be nerve-wracking, so here are a few tips to make the appointment go smoothly:
1.) Bring the shoes and undergarments that you are going to wear the day of the wedding.
2.) Bring a few different jewelry pieces to try on with the dress.
3.) If you have it, bring along your veil and/or headpiece just to get a feel for the full picture.
4.) Always bring a camera and family or friends!
5.) Take along your wedding planner to make suggestions on the bustle or fit of the dress.

The Photographer

Photography is a wonderful way to capture your wedding day memories. It is also a key element in determining many couples’ budgets. Here are a few questions to consider when selecting the right person for your wedding.

1.) Will you be at my wedding or will you send someone else? If so, can I meet him/her?

2.) What type of camera do you use?

3.) What is your style of photography?

4.) When will the proofs be ready?

5.) What type of packages do you offer?

6.) Do you have different styles of wedding books?

7.) Will there be online ordering?

8.) What do you require for the deposit? When is final payment due?

9.) Do you offer videography services as well?

Wedding Elements- The Flowers

Flowers are one of my favorite elements to a wedding and I love devising new ways to use them. Sure, they may be an added expense, but they can easily and beautifully transform a space in minutes. Here are some questions to ask when you are meeting with a florist:

· What packages does the vendor offer?

· Can they work with your budget?

· Do they understand your wedding style?

· Do they deliver the flowers? Is there a charge?

· Do they offer other rentals (linens, candles, chair covers, chairs)? What are the fees associated with these?

· Do they set-up the flowers at the ceremony and reception sites?

· If needed, can they move the ceremony flowers to the reception site?

· Can they provide flowers for the cake?

· What do they require to book a date?

· What is their cancellation policy?

Wedding Elements-The Invitation

In the next month, I will be examining several elements of the wedding planning process. This week, the focus will be on selecting the right invitation.

An invitation will not only set the tone, but will be your guest’s first glimpse into your dream day. Here are a few factors to think about when selecting the perfect invitation:

· What is your wedding theme?

· What colors are you incorporating into the wedding?

· What time of year will your wedding take place?

· What do you want the invitation to say about your wedding?

· What will the text say on the invitation? Will it say black tie preferred?

· What is your budget?

· How many invitations will you need?

· What is the lead time on the invitations?

· Do you want to custom invitations

Lauren & Wes Herrin's Wedding-Flowers (Breath of Spring), Invitation (Lee's Specialty)

Troy Community Center & Merritt Rosenthal Weddings & Events Partner Up

It is an exciting time in the event planning world as The Troy Community Center and Merritt Rosenthal Weddings & Events have aligned to offer special event planning services starting now. A group may select from 2 unique packages and/or hourly assistance to create the perfectly planned shower, graduation, anniversary party, birthday party, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and more. Take a look at the marketing piece on my website or call 248-524-1835 for more information.