If You've Ever Considering Being A Wedding Planner...

This article is written by one of my favorite wedding planner/blogger/business women.  She has amazing insight about the wedding industry and life as a whole!  If you want to be inspired in business read her blog Think Splendid.  Personally I love it!  Here's today's blog post, which actually happens to come from a few years back, but still carries the same weight.  Everything she says is true.  Wedding planning is not for the glitz and glam, there actually isn't much of that.  It's for the people seeking to truly make a difference in someones life on the most important day in their lives thus far.  Many, many hats are worn in this job.  This article describes a few!  Enjoy!

The Must-Have Trait for Wedding Pros (And Everyone Else) Posted: 17 Jul 2014 01:45 AM PDT My first job was in high school as a receptionist and shampoo girl at a hair salon. I learned many important skills at that job but the most valuable was learning how to listen to people on a deep level. It's a universal law that hair salons are some mysterious safe zone where people open up about their most vulnerable feelings while reading gossip magazines. As the professional, you're suddenly entrusted with a piece of their heart, whether you asked to be or not. It's like this in weddings, too. If you expect everyone to be rational, logical and approach decisions with level-headed analysis, the wedding industry is not for you. Every engaged couple and every wedding brings with it a lifetime of family dynamics and subtext that you must learn to navigate almost immediately. Some of it you'll recognize right away: the emotional loss of identity when two financially independent people are looking at merging accounts, a mom who can't seem to cut the apron strings even though her son hasn't lived at home in 14 years, divorced parents who will be in the same room for the first time in decades, crazy Aunt Mary who doesn't fall off the wagon, she jumps every chance she gets. And then there's the stuff that's less obvious: the sibling rivalry only heightened as adults because of differing life choices, the unspoken social expectations passed down through generations, the years of dinner table conversations and the perspectives they shaped, the hours of therapy the bride or groom has sat through as an adult because of family circumstances. Sometimes I'll "assist" a colleague on an event in order to observe the behavioral dynamics behind the scenes. At one wedding in Chicago a couple years ago, the mother of the bride made a tear-filled comment to me about how frumpy her arms looked in her sleeveless dress. On the surface this seems like a common insecurity every woman has had at some point in her life. What mattered, though, was that the mom wasn't looking at me when she was talking to me. She was looking across the room at her ex-husband's much younger (read: bride's age) new wife, whose arms could have given Michelle Obama's a run for their money. There, in the middle of photographs and makeup and hair styling and laughing over champagne, was a woman who was simultaneously excited for her daughter's wedding and grieving afresh her own shattered dreams. She wasn't interested in hearing that her arms looked fine and she looked beautiful, she wanted to know that she was still lovable and worthy of being pursued. These are tricky waters to navigate and require the ability to listen and pay attention on a level most jobs do not. They require building a team that practices empathy and isn't solely concerned with their own art, fame, timelines, Instagram updates or checkmarks on a to-do list. They require a thick-skin, grit and a willingness to forgive and forget when people's emotions prevail against their better judgment. They require consistently paying attention to a world beyond ourselves. Originally published January 2011

Your engaged!!! NOW WHAT!

It is that time of year when the reality of planning your wedding may be hitting you like a ton of bricks!  The high of you holiday proposal has mellowed and with the days turn into weeks, and weeks into months your realize that "OH SHOOT!" it February, and I need to get started! Here are the first 8 thing you need to do this month for your wedding!

1. Hire a professional wedding planner -
Yes, this may seem like a shameless plug for my or another planners services, but it really is beneficial!  Wedding planners are trained professionals who have been through exactly what you are experiencing many, many times!    We have the knowledge, TIME, and expertise to save you time, money and stress of starting from square one.  Statistically it takes up to 300 hours to plan a wedding, based on my experience with a wedding planner you can divide that number by 5.  That gives you 240 hours back!  Also, you won't make the first timer mistakes that can be costly on your budget and morale!

1.a. Set your budget -
This is an important step that will effect the rest of your planning!  Every decision you make effects you bottom line, so it's important to know what that line is!

2. Define your wedding vision-
Your wedding planner can really help you with this!  You don't have to set it in stone; it can be a work in progress, but it is important to set you and your fiances' priorities before starting.  You should know what size, style and personality of wedding you want.  Do you want an out door, barn, elegant modern, whimsical tent, destination, etc.  Will it be for 20 people or 400.  Are there certain family or traditional obligations you need to consider?  All these decisions will dictate the direction you go!

3. Find your venue(s) -
Once you have your ceremony & reception venues secured you can set the date and start planning!  Later in the month I will give the key question to ask when venue shopping so keep your eyes out for it!

4.  Compile your guest list and collect addresses -
There are many mailings that go out prior to your wedding invitation, so having your guest list with addresses in one place is really helpful.  The first of those mailings is the save the date!  You will want to send out your save the date at least 6 months in advance

5. Choose Attendants
Invite those closest to you to stand by your side on the most important and joyful days of your life!  They are also a wonderful support system through the whole planning process!

6. Start Wedding Dress Shopping -
This might be a long or speedy process!  It is critical that you find the perfect dress!  Take your time (if you have it) savor the experience and have fun!  You get to do this once (and after a few years will forever long to do it again)!  You do want to order your dress 6 months out from you wedding date.

7.  Vendor Selection -
Start researching, meeting with, and hiring your vendors!  You have a long list of people to find and hire so get to it!  You will want to select 1 of each of these:

• Wedding Planner
• Photographer
• Videographer
• Officiant
• Caterer
• Bartender/staff - if needed
• Cake/Pastry 
• Florist
• Ceremony Music
• DJ/Band
• Rental Company
• Transportation

8. Start attending wedding shows -
This is for fun with the potential to lead to wonderful vendors!  They are all gathered in one place waiting to meet you!  Don't get overwhelmed and this you need to go to them all, or need to hire all your vendors at one show!  Attending 1 or 2 that fit your schedule is a right of passage!  It should be fun!  (If you have a planner working with you for the whole planning process, there is no pressure to select vendors.  You can go for the fashion shows, cake tasting, and pure enjoyment!)


Okay, now you know what you need to do for the next month!  Go to it!  If this blog post overwhelmed you and made your head want to explode, then give me a call or shoot me an email!  I can help!  I'm here for you!

Postage Increase

*POSTAGE INCREASE HAPPENING AGAIN SUNDAY 1.26.14*

The blog post below is from March 2009 and has been updated with the newest info about the date and increase of postage!  Please take note!

It's important for all of you planning on sending out invitations to your guest for your spring/summer wedding, to note, that the price of postage is going up on Sunday 1.26.14 from $0.46 to $0.49. You can combat this price increase by buying forever stamps at the $0.46 price. These "forever" stamps will work no matter how high the cost of postage gets. I recommend buying far more than you need so you can use them on your RSVP envelopes or postcards and thank you notes too! With the Forever stamp you won't have to worry about not receiving an RSVP due to inadequate postage. Saving money and stress anywhere you can adds up to a lot of savings!

Get Hitched Give Hope - Hope Chest!!!

Recently married? Full up on stuff? This goes for you, vendors, and you, brides and grooms! Do you have perfectly good wedding decor, DIY projects, or leftover supplies that are piling up and collecting dust?

 DONATE TO HOPE CHEST WEDDING RUMMAGE SALE!!



 During the Hope Chest Drop-Off Event, we will be collecting new and gently used wedding items. Gowns – Veils – Apparel – Accessories – DIY Decor – Signage – Paper Goods – Centerpieces – Props – Antiques/Vintage – Napkins/Linens – Favors — Vases – Sparklers – Candles. You name it, we want it.

 THE DROP-OFF EVENT IS AT PUBLIC STORAGE SOUTH LAKE UNION 700 FAIRVIEW AVE N, SEATTLE, WA
 DAY ONE :: 01.31.2014 FROM 3PM TO 8PM
 DAY TWO :: 02.01.2014 FROM 9AM-2PM

 Your items will go up for sale at the Hope Chest rummage sale on Feb 23, 2014, where happy couples will pick up some great pre-loved stuff for their wedding while saving serious coin. It’s fabulous for your closets, lovely for their wallets, good for the environment, and great for our hearts because it’s all for charity. Proceeds will benefit Dream Foundation, to grant wishes to those given a terminal diagnosis, and Young Survival Coalition, to provide support to young women with breast cancer. Please RSVP for the Hope Chest Drop-Off Event on Facebook.

 Want to donate, but can’t make it? Email :: donate@gethitchedgivehope.com Check out this spot on KOMO news about Hope Chest! Blog post from Get Hitched Give Hope's website

Show It Off! Display Worthy Guest Books!

Stuck trying to decide what kind of guest book you want? What’s the point? You’ll never look at it again anyway! Wrong!  Here are ten look at over and over, actually display year round ideas!                                                                          

1. Coffee Table Photo book: Make good use of your engagement or favorite photos of you as a couple! Use a picture of you on one side of the page and the other side blank for guest to leave you a personal message. This is a guest book you won’t want to wait until after the Honeymoon to read!

 2. Calendar: Set out a calendar, and ask your guests to find their birthday and sign their name. Now you’ll have a reminder for everyone’s birthday along with a wedding guest book.

 3. Puzzle: Ask your guests to leave a message for the happy couple on a puzzle piece. One night, you and your husband can read the messages together while putting the puzzle together. You can even add a personal touch by using a website to create a puzzle using a picture of you and your fiancée.

 4. Wishing Stones: You can purchase some stones from any hobby/craft store and display them either in a nice vase or bowl. Each guest can then write a ‘wish’ for the happy couple. The bride and groom can then display the vase or bowl of stones in their home.

 5. Postcards: Provide various post cards and ask your guests to write a message of happiness to you and your husband. Then after the wedding, ask either a good friend, or family member to send you the postcards through out your first year of marriage. It will add a special moment since you won’t know when you’ll be receiving the next postcard.

 6. Quilt: If you have a family member or friend who knows who to sew, they may be willing to help you create a quilt for your wedding day. You can set the quilt out and ask guests to sign the guilt, which you and your husband can use later. If you can’t get the quilt sewn prior to the wedding, you can just ask guests to sign the quilt squares and then sew the quilt together after the wedding.

 7. Jenga: Every marriage has building blocks; why not build blocks together? Ask guests to sign wooden pieces from the game Jenga. Then on your anniversary, you and your husband, can play the game together, sharing the advice, or well wishes on each block as you earn them throughout the game.

 8. Wood Initial: Big letters are common at arts and crafts stores. Why not purchase the initial of your new last name. You can paint the letter, and add any special embellishment you like to the letter, and then ask your guests to sign the letter. After the wedding, the initial can become wall decoration.

 9. Time Capsule: Ask guests to leave messages to the bride and groom, photos, or memories you may share with the couple in a time capsule. Then open the time capsule on your first wedding anniversary or even your fifth anniversary, and take a stroll down memory lane.

 10. Wood Chair/ Bench: Purchase a wood bench or porch chair from any home improvement store and ask your wedding guests to sign the furniture. You can then seal over the wood so the messages don’t get ruined and place the bench or chair out in the backyard or patio. Every time you sit in the chair you can read the messages and names and remember your wedding day. This is a bigger guest book, to move, but the memories are worth it.

Picture Links:
2. Bench: http://1elegantevent.blogspot.com/2012/10/alternative-guest-book-ideas.html

Marry Me! Proposal Inspiration!

If any Men out there are getting ready to Pop the Question check this video out for inspiration. It is really sweet and well thought out!

LOVE...Happy Valentine's Day!

I hope today is a magical day of love for you!

Junebug Weddings Article

I found this article on Junebug Weddings today and found it really interesting!  I agree with all of their tips.  Choosing the right planner is 2nd to finding the right person to marry when planning your wedding!  I hope you enjoy!

How to Hire the Best Wedding Planner or Designer for Your Wedding

Sunday, November 25, 2012 6:00 AM

Filed Under: planning tips | with no comments

Over the last few years the Junebug team has frequently asked our readers “What is the best decision you made when planning your wedding?” By far the most popular answer is, “hiring a wedding planner!” With a substantial financial investment, and between 200 to 400 hours allocated to planning the average size wedding, it’s no wonder so many couples are grateful to wedding planners for helping them navigate the many details of their wedding planning process.

(wedding photo by Elizabeth Davis Photography) What does a wedding planner provide?
An experienced wedding planner offers you sound budget and management advice, contract negotiation, timeline creation, vetted vendor and location selection, along with stylish design aesthetic and execution. Contrary to popular belief, wedding planners can actually save you substantial amounts of time and money while ensuring you and your guests are delighted with your decisions.

(wedding photo by Claire Morgan Photography) What does a wedding designer provide?
Designers are experts at creating atmospheres that blend complementary décor concepts throughout your entire celebration and they generally work with your planner, lighting crew, décor companies, and photographer to transform your venue into an unforgettable experience. Celebrity couples and couples looking to make a one-of-a-kind statement frequently employ wedding designers. The wedding planner you choose may also be an experienced wedding designer, and if not, you may decide to hire a designer separately to create the overall visual aesthetic of your wedding.

(wedding photo by Cunningham Photo Artists) Whether you choose to hire a planner, designer, or both, here are five tips for choosing the professional that’s right for you.

1. Look to your friends, family, co-workers, and highly-vetted resources like Junebug Weddings to create your own list of wedding professionals. Visit their websites and blogs, and read online client reviews. Be sure the companies you’re considering have orchestrated numerous weddings from start to finish before you trust them with yours (we ask our members to have at least 50 weddings completed before they join Junebug Weddings).


2. Choose 3 to 5 planners to interview, and pay attention to how well they listen, and how comfortable you feel with their ideas and responses. Ask them for multiple references and check them. Trust is the most important component of a great working relationship, so choose someone who you believe will keep your best interests at heart, and who you are looking forward to spending time with in the months ahead.


3. Set a budget upfront and let your wedding planner and/or designer make the most of it. Your budget will include your wedding planner so keep in mind that wedding planners charge for their services in several different ways. Some charge by the hour, others charge a percentage of your overall budget (generally 10-20%) and still others charge a flat rate. Be sure the pricing structure you agree to fits your needs and desires best.


4. Share your style, history, and dreams with your planner, and let them know how involved you would like to be in the planning process. After all, you want your wedding to fit you to a tee so the more your planner and designer knows about you and your expectations, the more likely they will be to exceed them.


5. Keep in mind that your wedding will be much more than a party. Chances are your guests will vary in age and interests, (and even dietary restrictions) and the scope of your celebration from the days leading up to your wedding and the days after will be full of details, logistics, and frequently unforeseen changes that can cause you unnecessary stress. If you decide to plan your wedding yourself, or if you’re going to let your friends and family do it, you may want to consider having a “day of” coordinator with you on your wedding day; a professional to help you manage logistics and last minute details so you can relax and enjoy your wedding day unencumbered with worry, and overjoyed by the all the little moments that will never come again.

(wedding photo by The Rasers) Junebug Weddings has spent years compiling our World’s Best Wedding Planners and Designers Hotlist. Every planner and designer we recommend is highly sought after and trusted for their talent and expertise, and every one of them is ready to make your wedding planning more fun and easier than it could ever be without them. Don't miss it!

(wedding photo by Elizabeth Messina)

Wedding Show Bells are Ringing!

Hi All,

Happy New Year!

I hope all of your holiday dreams came true! If you are one of the lucky ladies who ended up with a romantic holiday proposal, then the Seattle Wedding Show should be your first stop of the new year! If you have been planning your wedding for a little while now, the wedding show is still for you! (I sort of feel like it is a right of passage when planning your wedding!) There are a ton of vendors (some wonderful and others that you should research first) at the show, great cake and goodies, so it can be fun to go to.  I don't suggest that you plan your whole wedding based on the show, but it will expose you to many ideas, professionals, and the wedding experience as a whole!  It can be a really fun day with your Mom, Mom to be, and friends!  If your not a football fan and need something to do during the Seahawks game Saturday afternoon, the wedding show is a perfect escape!  If your the girl (like me) who will be glued to the TV watching the Seahawks march one step closer to the Superbowl, then anytime Sunday is a great time to go!  Go Seahawks!  

Here is the info, and tips I have if you are heading to the show:

Seattle Wedding Show

Location: Washington State Convention & Trade Center

800 Convention Place, 4th Floor

Seattle, WA 98101

When: Saturday January 11th, 201410:00am to 5:30pm (ticket sales open at 9:30am)

Sunday January 12th, 201410:30am to 5:00pm (ticket sales open at 10:00am)

TIPS:

1. The Seattle Wedding Show is the largest of its kind in the Pacific NW. There are hundreds of vendors (some the right fit for your wedding and some not)! Do your research before or after the show. DO NOT sign up with the first vendor offering a Wedding Show Special Deal! You will be sorry! You MUST research the quality of the vendor and their reputation before signing a contract! If you find someone you really like on Saturday, go home, look at their website, call their references, check their yelp reviews, etc.; then go back and book them on Sunday. If you don't want to or can't go both days, many vendors extend their wedding show pricing and deals out past the end of the show (especially if you spoke with them directly)! Make an appointment for a consultation after you've had time to find out more information! Quality vendors will not high pressure sell you!

2. Wear comfortable shoes. It is a huge show! It is possible it could take you 2+ hours to get through it.

3. Layer your clothing. Generally it's cold in the morning at the show and then fills and heats up. Saturday is very busy especially in the morning. If you want to avoid the crowds go later in the afternoon on Saturday or on Sunday. Sunday late afternoon is the least busy, but some of the vendors may have run out of their samples and freebies by then. So, Sunday morning is best!

4. Create a separate wedding email address. (This only applies if you're looking for vendors solo, with out a wedding planner.) You could end up receiving emails from many different vendors, so to keep your real email clean create a wedding only email.Create wedding information labels. This will prevent you from having to write your contact information over and over to enter contests, connect with a vendor, etc.. You will want to include your name, phone number, email, and maybe your mailing address. I have found that large mailing labels work best for this. 1 sheet is probably enough, but is up to you. (Again this only applies if you are looking for vendors with out a wedding planner.)

5. Don't be afraid to go into a booth or speak with a vendor. In my years as a vendor at the show I have seen so many timid brides! The vendors are there to meet you and chat with you about your wedding, and how they may play a role! I know that it can get overwhelming, but know the vendors are there to meet you and answer your questions.

6. Lastly, don't be afraid to say "No". It's okay not to give your information or take a flyer from a vendor that you are not interested in. It's your information, you don't have to give it out.

I hope this helps! If you have any additional questions or concerns please email or call me! wendi@etherealevents.com I'd be happy to assist! Happy Planning & Happy New Year!

Wedding Show Re-Cap

If you missed the Seattle Wedding Show this year, don't worry! Seattle Bride Magazine went to and is sharing it with you in a 3 part video series! Check it out!

SEEN with Seattle Bride @ The 2012 Seattle Wedding Show - Style Episode from Seen LIVE with Team Photogenic on Vimeo.

Need Something New & Blue?

I don't know if all of you are aware that Nordstrom has launch the Wedding Suite at its downtown Seattle location! It is a beautiful boutique like setting in the heart of Nordstrom's designer 2nd floor! Saturday January 15th, they are rolling out the red carpet for Brides to be, their family and friends! I stopped last week to get a sneak peak and was really impressed by the selection of shoes (of course!) Bride's maids dresses and accessories! Here is all the info you need:

January 15, 2011

noon-3:00pm

Nordstrom Downtown Seattle

the Wedding Suite, on two

It's a drop in event so no appointment needed. Can't make it Saturday? To book an appointment or for more information, call 206.628.1730. I hope to see you all there!

Pictures from Nordstrom Wedding Suite Website.

A Toast to the New Year!

"Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right." ~Oprah Winfrey

As we ring in 2011 I'm reminded of all the blessings in my life and business! I'm not really one for resolutions, but this year I'm going to make a concise effort to write down all the small and big accomplishments and happiness 2011 brings! Most of which comes from my clients and family! 2011 is my 5th full season in this business, and I love it more with each new day and new client! I feel so lucky to be doing I job I adore! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you to all my clients who have touched my life for the better!

Happy New Year!

Here it is! When is help no help at all article!

Back in November I told you that I was being interviewed for an article about unwanted offerings of help from family and friends. It sparked me to write a whole blog post on the topic, which has hopefully been very beneficial to your planning! The article is finally syndicated and available for your reading pleasure! Feel free to check it out here, here, here, and also here! And, AS ALWAYS, with Ms. Sachse's wonderful articles, there are over 200 more of these, both in print and online, across the U.S. and Canada. Hopefully it will be helpful when planning your wedding and beyond!




Thanks, but No Thanks
5 ways to politely deny “help” from overzealous family and friends

By Anna Sachse
CTW Features

Everyone knows that planning a party for everyone you know is a lot of work, so chances are your loved ones will offer to pitch in. Sometimes you might appreciate their offers – maybe your best friend is a whiz with flowers and offered to create your centerpieces free of charge – but sometimes you may find that their benevolence is more harmful than helpful.

Need some graceful ways to “just say no” to unwanted assistance? Here are five expert tips that should help keep your dream wedding and your loved ones’ feelings intact.

Be Switzerland

The key to politely deflecting unwanted help is to reduce the personal aspect, says Elise Mac Adam, author of “Something New: Wedding Etiquette for Rule Breakers, Traditionalists, and Everyone In Between” (Simon Spotlight Entertainment, 2008). For example, if you are dealing with a pushy relative or future in-law, one way out is to say: “I love you so much, and I love that you have offered to help, but I have to be very careful not to alienate anyone on the other side by leaving people out. For that reason we’ve decided that we won’t involve family in the big jobs.”

This is the “it’s just politics” solution, says Mac Adam. “It also makes you look considerate while allowing you to get what you want or, rather, not get what you don’t want.”

Be Magnanimous

Perhaps your only-cooks-with-a-microwave cousin has offered to bake your cake. The solution? Tell her that you are touched by her generosity, but that you just don’t feel comfortable putting the people who are most important to you to work, says Mac Adam. Instead, you’d prefer that she enjoyed the food, took part in pictures and cut loose on the dance floor.

Play the Blame (it on the pros) Game

“I often tell my clients to blame me!” says Wendi Hroncich, a wedding planner and founder of Seattle-based Ethereal Events. “Most people don’t have a good argument against ‘I really appreciate the offer but my wedding planner thinks it’s best if ...’ And the same goes for any other wedding professionals you work with, including the caterer, DJ, photographer, etc.”

In addition, it’s unlikely that your meddling mother-in-law will maintain a lifelong relationship with any of your vendors, so it’s far better for her to be temporarily upset with them than with you.

Redirect

You may not want your scatterbrained cousin to be in charge of passing out the checks to vendors like she offered, but chances are you can find another role for her. For instance, Mac Adam suggests saying something like: “It’s so nice of you to offer, but it would actually mean a lot to me if, instead, you could check up on Aunt Tessie throughout the night so that she doesn’t get lonely.”

You can also dole out “real” jobs, which, even if done incorrectly, won’t have a major impact on your event or your happiness, says Hroncich. Safer bets include guest-book attendant, gift attendant, usher and candle lighter.

Minimize Damages

If you want a loved one to feel included but you simply can’t stomach the idea of having him or her take part in the logistics of your actual big day, Hroncich suggests assigning a task that you need taken care of in the days or weeks prior, such as picking up a friend from the airport, dropping off hotel gift bags or collecting the programs from the printer. Just be sure that you have a back-up plan in case the person flakes.

Hire a Wedding Coordinator if...

My sister who is getting married this October emailed this to me. I thought I would share it with all of you! I think it is fun and cute! If any of them apply to you: HIRE A COORDINATOR!
We will save you all the stress, time and money!! We are there to be on your side no matter what!

FROM: the knot and MSN

What Kind of Bride Are You?
Even the calmest woman can suffer a meltdown (or six) in the course of planning a wedding. Do you still recognize yourself, or have you turned into one of these bridal caricatures?

By Hallie Goodman

Every bride has her own, well, let's just say quirks. Read on and see if you recognize anyone you know.

The Non-Decider
Shoe fit? The deadline for mailing invites is looming. Too bad you've yet to choose a location. The dress? You've narrowed it down to white. Or, wait, ivory. Ivory or white it is.

Break through it: Not a case of cold feet? Phew, okay, then the culprit could be perfectionism. It's a simple equation: perfectionism = procrastination = paralysis. Afraid to make the wrong decision, you've opted not to make any at all. If your budget can bear it, call a wedding planner ASAP. Not possible? Call a summit of your closest friends and ask for help. Divide and conquer the scary to-do list together. Relax, it'll be fun. And a fun wedding is a perfect wedding!

The Alpha
Shoe fit? Bridal binder? Check. Countdown calendar? Check. Hostages? Check (though you prefer to call them the wedding party). The upside to you bordering on bridezilla is that you know what you want. The downside — you knew there would be one, right? — you've been voted most likely to go 'zilla at the first fumble. And while bossy might get you results at the office, with friends and family it's not cute.

Break through it: If you're a proper type A, you've hired the best people, so have a little faith! Give vendors a list of instructions, in writing, and then lay off. When it comes to friends and family, any help they offer is a labor of love, so help them love it by dropping the drill sergeant act.

The Fairy Princess
Shoe fit? You went shopping for a sheath, but bought a dress so poufy it'll dust both sides of the aisle. Instead of reserving a limo, you put a Cinderella coach — complete with six white horses — on hold. You've always been a minimalist, so what's up with Barbie's dream wedding?

Break through it: Sounds like your inner 8-year-old has taken over the planning process. Hey, it happens! But your wedding should reflect who you (and your man) are now. Not something you once scribbled in a diary. Run everything by your BFF, the one who always tells you when you've lost your mind. If it's all wrong, she'll see it. And if it turns out that a castle-shaped champagne fountain is you, she'll help you get it.

Miss Baby
Shoe fit? When you hear that the flowers you wanted are out of season, you cry, stomp, and say (unfortunately out loud), "Why me?" When your honey says the groomsmen vetoed the color coral, you can barely get out of your pajamas for three days because, really, what's the point if there will be no coral on your wedding day? In short, stress has gotten the best of you. But rather than raging when you don't get your way, you throw lavish pity parties left and right.

Break through it: You're obviously overwhelmed and/or exhausted. Time to declare a serious WTO (wedding time-out). Turn off the laptop, hide the BlackBerry, and spend the evening paying attention

The Balanced Bride
Shoe fit? Not a single family member is avoiding your calls. Your bridesmaids don't roll their eyes every time you talk. Even your fiance appears to be having a relatively good time. Congrats on not driving everyone around you crazy!

Break through it: What's to fix? Sounds like you're sitting pretty. But don't be shocked if you have a few mini meltdowns. No one expects you to be perfect.

(This Girl definitely has a coordinator!!!)

For more on this from MSN click here!

Ready to figure out your intended? Read "What Kind of a Groom Is He?"

Real Wedding Friday: Jackie & Bryan

Jackie & Bryan are an amazing couple I had the pleasure of working with to plan their wedding last summer! The Woodmark Hotel at Carillon Point was the perfect setting for their chocolate, coral, cream and peach wedding! This couple is as beautiful on the inside as they are out, and their wedding day was a true reflection of that. I hope you enjoy!

Photography: Jane Lee Photography

Wedding Coordination: Ethereal Events
Venue: Woodmark Hotel
Florist: Flora Nova
Videography: Cory Bogle Productions
Cake: Sugar Cake Studios
Officiant:Chaplain Lt. Col. Carl Supplee
Linens: BBJ Linens

Dear Wendi Wednesday...Tips & Tricks for Seattle Wedding Show

Dear Wendi Wednesday a little differently! It is my first Vlog ever so please take it with a grain of salt. I am by no means a videographer, nor am I trying to be. I'm just trying to keep the blog interesting! (And I got a flip camera for Christmas that I have been dying to use! I hope you like it!

Dear Wendi Wednesday...That takes the cake!

Dear Wendi,

What is the deal with the Groom's cake? Should I incorporate this into my wedding?

Thanks,

J.F. Seattle

Hi J.F.

Thank you so much for your question! I love Groom's cakes! They have been thought of in the past as an unnecessary additional cost, but currently they are becoming incredibly popular. They are a wonderful addition of the Groom's personality into the wedding reception. According to Wikipedia:

"A groom's cake is a wedding tradition typically associated with the American
South... The decoration of the cake may reflect the favorite hobby or
interest of a groom, or be used for humorous effect... The groom's cake
is often served at a separate table from the wedding cake at a wedding
reception, though it may be served as a dessert for a rehearsal dinner."

The important part of a Groom's cake is that you have fun with it and make it about him. Have it made of his favorite flavors, and shaped to represent something he loves. Below are some great examples of my past clients' wedding cakes and groom's cakes!

Jenny & Amit's Indian inspired wedding cake

Jenny & Amit's University of Washington Husky Groom's cake
Hannah & Ryan's Naranja inspired wedding cake

Hannah & Ryan's Nike shoe inspired Groom's cake

Each Groom's cake was a surprise to the Groom, as a gift from the Bride! They were thrilled and touched! The cake really showed that the bride has thought about them, and what they would have picked if given the opportunity to pick the wedding cake! It was so wonderful to witness! I highly recommend a groom's cake.

Are you having a Groom's cake? Tell me about it!

Red Wine Be GONE!

Dear Wendi,

My wedding is coming up in a few weeks! I can hardly wait! I do have a concern as the day draws closer. My fiance and I are red wine and scotch drinkers. We are serving a variety of both at the bar. I am starting to worry someone will spill red wine on my dress. Is there something you can recommend if this does happen?

Thank you,

E.R. Woodinville, WA


Hi E.R.,

I'm so glad you asked this question! Spills and stains are a huge concern with most brides. But I promise, you have little to worry about! I have a couple of secret weapons to combat a red wine stain.

1. Avoid serving or drinking red wine prior to the reception. The less possible contact the less likely you'll be spilled on.


2. If you are spilled on, immediately poor white wine on the spot. It will neutralize the acid of the red and pull the red color out. You will still be wet in that spot, but the red will vanish.


3. Lastly, I am a huge fan of a product called Wine Away. (You can find it in most grocery stores. I've had luck finding it at Albertson's and QFC. ) It works in a heart beat on all fabrics and leaves no trace behind. I have used it on silk, satin, french lace, duchess satin, you name it. I use it at weddings and at home. I absolutely love it. They don't pay me to say this. I just love how well it works! (Though, they should!)

*Every dress (wedding or not) is different, and will be effected by these products differently. To be safe, I would first try any of my suggestions on a small area (maybe near the bottom or underside) before using all over your wedding dress. I have had extremely positive results, but can't guarantee them for all.

Do you have a suggestion for getting stains out of a wedding dress? I'd love to hear them!

Happy Planning!

Oh NO! Dear Wendi Wednesday

Dear Wendi,

I've heard from my friends and brides maids that I should have an emergency kit on wedding day. What should I include in it?

- L.S. Portland, OR

Hi L.S.,

Thank you so much for your question! Your friends are right. Having an emergency kit on wedding day can be a real life saver. My kit is FULL of different goodies to get through any situation. However a bride's emergency kit can have far less. Here are some basics that I find my clients using the most:

• Stain stick - Shout wipes. Wine away. Bleach pen. Any one of them will do the trick
• Sewing kit - make sure it includes thread the color of your and your brides maid's dresses
• Tissues - small hand held packs are the best
• Hair spray - a small travel bottle will do the trick
• Comb or Brush - or both
• Scissors - even a small pair. Check and see if there is a pair in the sewing kit
• Ribbon in your wedding colors - can use it anywhere
• Fashion tape - Can help secure a dress or ribbon to flower girls dress
• Band aids - someone always needs one
• Straws - you don't want to ruin your lipstick
• Breathe Mints - insurance for an amazing first kiss!
• Blotting papers - (if you don't have these - toilet seat cover will work the same)
• Plastic cups - just in case the hotel doesn't have enough for everyone to toast
• Wine opener- a cheap one will do
• Granola Bars - hunger can strike at any moment!

There are a million other things in my kit, but this should prepare you for almost anything on your wedding day!

Have any suggestions for what should be in an emergency kit? I'd love to hear your suggestions!

Happy Planning!

I'm Hungry!

You wedding day has finally arrived! The months if not a year spent researching and hiring the right vendors, weeks of perfecting the details, days of running errands, and hour agonizing over your seating chart are behind you. It is now time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

The people you love are all around snapping photos, pouring champagne, steaming dresses, listening to music, and celebrating what lies ahead in just a few hours! With all of the things going on and excitement in the air it is all to common for this mishap to take place.

Monday Mishap: No one planned anything to eat outside of the wedding meal

The wedding day is a long day especially for the bride, groom, and their bridal party. With hair and makeup starting 5 to 6 hours prior to the ceremony. It is common that a wedding day last 10 to 12 hours if not more. So count back, if your ceremony starts at 5:00pm then that means 11:00 am or so you start hair. Then getting dressed, photos, ceremony, etc. And what time is dinner scheduled? 7:00 or 8:00 pm? That is a really long time to go without food. You are packed full of emotions and adrenaline, but that will only last so long. Eating during that time is a very important part of a successful and fun day.

If you have overlooked this ever so important detail, don't stress you are not alone. It is often overlooked by almost everyone. My advice is to sit down with your groom and talk about what each of you is going to do for breakfast and lunch on wedding day. You are obviously going to do different things, but having a plan for each of you is very important.

Since I don't know what you getting ready plans are, and won't be there to bring lunch, here is a wide variety of simple suggestions:

For the Groom:

• Meet up with grooms men for breakfast/lunch - (*make reservations if you have a large party)
• Eat at the golf course after your 9 holes (*You don't have time for 18! You just don't!)
• Arrive to the hotel early and eat in the lounge prior to getting dressed
• Order room service
• Eat breakfast and lunch at home prior to arriving at picture location (*this does mean you need to have food for both meals in your home ahead of time. Yes, a trip to the grocery store!)

For the bride:

• Order room service in your bridal suite
• Have your family or brides maids bring in muffins, fruit, yogurt, lunch meat,crackers, etc. for you all to snack on.
• Have your bridal brunch/luncheon in the morning before hair and make up
• Stock up your house with your favorite foods (nothing that can not be prepared before wedding day. No cooking or hassle on wedding day!)
• Pack a snack bag ahead of time and bring it with you to the ceremony location
• Pre-order appetizers from reception location to have ready for you as soon as you arrive
• If ceremony and reception at same location - have the appetizer prepared for all bridal party to enjoy in down time prior to ceremony

*Special Note* Once your dress is on it is important to have stain free snacks to munch on. OUT:: chocolate, mustard, red wine, cranberry sauce, anything with a colored sauce IN: pretzels, fruit, veggies (watch dips), cheese platters, nuts, etc.

If you have a suggestion for Brides I'd love to hear it! Leave me a comment. Happy planning!

Photographs: Clare Marie Photography