INTERVIEW WITH MATTHEW ROBBINS

I am always looking for inspiration and lovely things to share with you.  Today, I have the pleasure of sharing the incredible talent of Matthew Robbins and an interview I recently did with him.   Matthew's book, Inspired Weddings, is full of beautiful images of his work and ideas for making your wedding a magical experience.   In it, he shares his process and some insider tips on how you can create a beautiful wedding.   As Martha Stewart's constant resource for wedding inspiration, Matthew Robbins has assisted many brides in achieving their dream wedding.   

 These images of some fall weddings will give you just a hint of the glorious and unique ways Matthew brings the vibrancy of fall into focus, creating details that will inspire you and wow your guests.   There is nothing ordinary about these event designs! 

Matthew does not believe in what he calls the "factory approach" to design.  Instead, he empowers his clients to identify what they cherish and turn it into an inspired design based on their unique vision.  

       
With his beginnings in San Fransisco in floral design, Matthew has moved to New York and has launched a comprehensive and diverse event business.   It is here, that he incorporates his talents with a team on equally talented people, to create events that are forever remembered and admired.          

So, now let Matthew tell you in his own words what inspires him, how he works and where he figured out what he loves to do.

Q: How did you get started in this business?

A:My intro to the event world was in college as an art student in San Francisco. I worked part time after class and on the weekends to earn extra money as a student and during this time I developed a real passion and curiosity for event design. 

Q: What inspires you?

A: I'm always inspired by travel. I love seeing and experiencing new places, new architecture and different ways of living. I also rely heavily on the art world and gardening and landscape design for great ideas. 

Q: Brides do not understand the differences in the term “planner”. They don’t get that

the designer does not “fluff the dress” or hold their hand while they get ready. They are

not clear that the caterer does not set up their DIY centerpieces or that the officiant does

not run the day. Can you explain your services and responsibilities to my readers?

A: My focus is design and creating wonderful environments for my clients. The small design details are just as important as the big picture so I like to be involved in anything and everything related to the design of an event. I definitely cross over into "planner" territory by being involved in every detail related to design such as the look and feel of the paper goods, the presentation of food and beverage and the overall flow of the event. All of these details come together to define the look and feel of an event. A planner focuses or (in my opinion) should focus on the details related to logistics only such as vendor contracts, budgets and timelines. A good planner is an amazing project manager but does not control the design of an event unless you he or she to specifically design your event. I suggest doing your research and ask the right questions. Talk to potential planners and ask what their focus is. I don't believe one person or company is great at everything. A good designer should focus on design and I can speak from experience! When my clients prefer to have my company handle all logistics and design I bring in a planner to collaborate on the project. This is a clean division of responsibilities and duties. Everyone needs to understand a planner is not designing an event by recommending floral designers, lighting designers, photographers, etc. The professionals who offer these design services are designing the event and will make that magic happen. 

Q: I notice that your fall weddings are not necessarily “traditional fall colors”. Can you

give my readers some insight as to your inspiration for creating color palettes that are

not traditional, yet have fall elements?

A: I like to focus on the general mood and spirit of the season rather than the obvious details so think about what makes Fall inspiring. Textures, layers, rich and muted color palettes, bountiful and decadent forms are all elements I use from the beauty of the season. Find one obvious detail such as a rusty red or pumpkin orange and pair it with something unexpected like a warm ivory or chic grey tone. This instantly takes a traditional palette and turns it into something unique and memorable.

Q: Though opulent, the elements of many of your weddings are simple concepts. Can

you give any tips to a bride who is on a budget ways to bring that same opulence to her

wedding without the cost?

A: An opulent decor is not so hard to create if you rely on a few tricks such as layering textures, focus on a limited color palette and incorporate pattern into your design. Texture can come from floral material, fabrics and lighting. A limited color palette brings an instant chis and styled edge to any decor plan. I like to layer neutral tones as a base and add in a few vibrant or rich tones to add contrast and a little drama. Pattern is a wonderful too for adding opulence and style to your event. A simple fabric runner with a fabulous pattern can transform a otherwise very ordinary table. Try a patterned dinner napkin or patterns on your vases, planters and candle holders. 

Q: You say that you “empower” your clients with their personal style and you “educate”

them to use unique elements to achieve this vision. Can you elaborate?

A: I spend a good amount of time getting to know what inspires my clients. I like to know as much as I can about their own style, their backgrounds, where they travel, how they entertain, etc. This really informs so many of the design decisions for every event. I also try to connect my client's love or passion for a particular thing or place to real, tangible design details so they can see their personalities are informing the design process. I believe most people have an internal sense of their own style and vision but they just need a little help articulating that vision. A good designer knows how to discover that spark and build a whole story with the information. 

What else would you like my readers to know about you- your vision, your philosophy,

your business?

A: My work is dedicated to bringing a more effortless, unfussy and approachable sensibility to the event design world. I believe the design world (in general) has made a real effort to really fine tune a more elegant, eclectic and personal approach so I make this the focus of my business. I also offer interior design services and this is a real treat as it allows my design skills to dig even deeper by working with clients to create spaces they can live with for many years. I'm currently finishing up design details on a line a beautiful vases in a collaboration with an amazing tabletop company. I can't wait to share these with everyone in the new year! 

   
 Let me leave you with these last two images.   I just adore this vegetable garden of escort cards!  Now, that is inspired!  And, the rich gold, brown, green and red of the tablescape and cake make for a perfect fall wedding!!    I hope that Matthew has inspired you to use your most precious things to create your wedding dream!   Many thanks to Matthew Robbins for his time and to Christian Oth for the images.   You can see more of Matthew's creativity at Matthew Robbins Design.   Or, contact him to help you design an amazing wedding design.  

MARY ANN AND OMAR: A BEAUTIFUL DAY

The view from the suite at the Hotel Monaco Philadelphia was spectacular!  As Mary Ann was pampered in preparation for her big day, she could see the turning leaves and Independence Park out the window.    A lovely table of delicious pastries, fresh fruit juice and pitchers of water with strawberries floating in them were laid out by the hotel to keep the bride fed.  It was nice to see how calm Mary Ann was as she was fussed over by her hairdresser and Kelly Quinlan of Face the Occasion.   After all she had been through, the last thing I wanted was for her to feel the least bit nervous or stressed.      

By the time the photographer got there, Mary Ann was ready to go.  I was touched by the way that she fussed over her mother and actually took the time to dress her, while Sarah Miller and Patience shot photos of the dress and the flowers and the blue shoes.  I also thought it was so sweet how Mary Ann had a brooch pinned to her bouquet with a photo of her dad. When it was time, I got the bride into her gown and sent her off to the hotel roof for

some time alone before the ceremony.  

 

 Meanwhile, I went to check on the officiant and the Girard Room, where the reception would be held.   Mary Ann had all her own touches to add to the table.  Being an intimate party for just the family, there was one long table.   Gold charger plates and lots of votives made for a glimmering table, with flowers by Cheryl Ann Floral Design.  All the flowers were white with lots of deep green touches.   It made for a spectacular table.   The cake, from Bredenbeck's was so pretty.  I added the fresh flowers to it in addition to setting up the table and the gift table.  

 The ceremony took place on the roof under a perfectly blue sky.   Cocktail hour was immediately following in the Mist Pavilion.  While the guests gathered to share the day, the couple made their way to Independence Park for photos.   And, then it was off to the Girard Room for a lovely dinner and dancing to the sounds of Sound Sensation and DJ Mike Ellis.   

 DJ Mike even got out on the floor and got the party moving!   It was a great day and a beautiful time had by all. 

 As this wedding almost didn't happen, due to a string of disasters 3 weeks before, I must thank Michael Mitloff of the Hotel Monaco and ALL of the staff of the hotel for their outstanding efforts, cooperation and service in order to assist me in making this couple's wedding more than they ever dreamed.   I could not have done this without Michael, whom I called almost every day.  He was tireless in making every detail possible.   I also want to mention Erik Travers, whose attention to detail with the presentation of the meal and constant concern made for a flawless reception and to the chef, Guillermo Tellez, whose food is outstanding!   And, finally, to Nick Gregory, the general manager, who kept in contact with me and made sure nothing went awry.   This was truly one of my biggest triumphs!   Everything went wrong for this adorable bride and yet, her day turned into a magical experience that she could not have imagined.   

I got this from Mary Ann yesterday.   And, they are planning a party early next year for all the people they did not have at the wedding.  So, I will be working with them again. 

  'Thank you for everything. We really can't say enough about how great you were through this entire journey. You are absolutely wonderful.  This was better than we ever imagined and I now believe that things happen for a reason."

LITTLE WOMAN DESIGN

There's a new invitation design team in town and they are destined to become stars! If you are a bride looking for something completely unique and fun, you need to visit Little Woman Design! Francesca Staffieri and Michael Magro have hit the scene like gangbusters and it won't take long for them to become a "must have" for couples in Philadelphia and beyond.

Started just last winter with their own wedding, Little Woman Design is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with.

This little dynamo of a company is prepared to give you all the visual components of your wedding day, from Save The Dates- like this one here, to your invitations, programs, napkins, menus, banners and even the GOBO stencil for the dance floor lighting. Just give them the theme, color palette and your vision and their incredible imagination will design all the elements to make that vision come to life.

So, where can you find this little gem? Well, I will tell you! You can visit them at Bridal Expos, on line or at Soiree Philadelphia, in Old City. You can even set up a video conference with them. Wherever you meet them, you will be thrilled with the result! So, get going!! They are waiting to make your stationery stand apart from the ordinary. And, don't forget to visit their BLOG to see what is new and exciting for this Little Woman!!!































Photos Courtesy of BG Productions

THE FROSTED PETTICOAT

I am just so excited to do this post!! For a long time, I have been mesmerized by The Frosted Petticoat. Their whimsical blog, full of all kinds of off beat "couples" and their immensely creative inspiration boards, make my day! NOW! They have an Etsy shop that is full of more whimsical goodies- chocolate ones!!! Can't you just see these lovely snowflakes sitting at each place setting of your winter wedding? They are so pretty and they are delicious too! Are you planning an engagement party, a shower, your rehearsal dinner and looking for something unique to add to the fun? Try some of these ideas- all chocolate!! Buttons, jewel boxes (OH, maybe a Valentine proposal), stars, flowers- even a corset. I just love them! And, I just love The Petticoats!! They are ingenious and as sweet as their chocolates. So, visit the Etsy shop and make your day by visiting their blog! You will be glad you did!!!

THE BEAUTY OF MY JOB

Every wedding I do, and have done, for the last 9 years has been different. They all bring me joy and pride and the satisfaction that I had a small part in making a dream come true. But, seldom do I have the distinct honor and pleasure of working with people like Paige and Michael and Paige's mom and dad, Chere and Steve. I have only had this kind of wonderful experience once or twice before- most notably, the bride who referred me to Paige. I don't have the words for all the amazing things that have come from this wedding- the kind words, the loving memories, the thank you's that I didn't even expect- and the prospect of new brides, friends of Paige getting married in the near future. But, I wanted to take a moment to share some of the kindness that has come my way since last weekend. In addition to the phone calls and email messages, I also have fabulous photos and these words. I am blessed to have been a part of their day and this is...

...THE BEAUTY OF MY JOB!

From Paige's mom:

"We are still smiling!!!! Thank you for an amazing day. Steve and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it....because of YOU!!!"

"We feel so blessed to have you as part of our special event. Your attention to detail and readiness to work hard will make our daughter's wedding seamless. Thank you for your help with everything.."

From Sarah DiCicco- who took this spectacular photo and 6,000 more!

"I just love you!!! We shot over 6000 images! Wait until you see these shots!

Thank you so much for making my job easy on saturday! you are the best~

xoxo"

Sarah and I have not worked together before. But, it was as if we were the right and the left hand all day! It was an extreme pleasure to be in her company all day and her talent is top notch!








And, my incredibly lovely and sweet Paige, called me yesterday to say that she loves me and was so glad I was there to make her day perfect. She wanted me to know that she will tell all her friends and would be willing to give a testimonial to anyone who wants one. She was thrilled with her day, is still on Cloud 9 and can't wait to get together soon.


Finally, this is what Chere had to say about me on Weddingwire:

Our daughters Wedding day was seamless. From beginning to end Wendy was there. Her attention to detail and readiness to work hard was fantastic!!
Having Wendy as our planner was the best investment we made.....it enabled us to truly enjoy a very special day in our family.
Her sternness with vendors and loving hand with our family made her a perfect fit for us!!
Thank you Wendy....you have now become a friend!!! And we will miss you. You always "had our back!!"

THANK YOU! From the bottom of my heart!

G.E. MASANA- PHOTOGRAPHER EXTRAORDINAIRE

Once in a while someone comes to my attention and I am stunned! Such is the case of G.E. Masana. Not only is his photography art, but his reasons for taking pictures of your wedding is priceless. My contact with him has been nothing short of astounding and I can't wait to work with him. This one photograph and what he says about it gives me goosebumps. There is so much more to see. But, when you are looking for the person who is going to document the MOMENTS of your history, please contact G.E. Masana and there will be no question. Here is a short quote that sums it all up. I was moved by this. You will be too! Thanks to G.E. Masana for sharing this photo and his thoughts.

" When wedding blogs and bridal magazines publish photos of my wedding photography, their interest is in depicting the wedding details such as flowers, colors, jewelry and items of that nature. I do photograph those as they are important and part of the wedding, yet to me, wedding photography is about depicting the moments.

The day after the wedding, everything becomes history. Your history. We visit the wedding day again and again via the photos because of the day’s meaning, because it was of significance in our lives and a day everyone who has meaning to you all came together to celebrate with you. The photos become a place where, no matter how life or death separate us in the years that follow, everyone will always be. Like an anchor in our lives.

Which is why I chose the wedding photo below as today’s Wedding Photograph Of The Week. The bride, her mother, and her father, are seated in the antique car in which they’re about to be driven to the church from their hotel. I love how the bride glanced at her dad. He, along with her mother, is there for her. She wants them there in this moment in her life.

There was something in his face that said he didn’t want to let her go, but knew he had to. He smiled back but looked forward. So they’re there, on this last and final drive, to accompany her start to her new life. I can only imagine how her life similarly may have started with a drive home from the hospital with her parents… and now, here they are, on this last journey.

It’s such a family moment. A meaningful bit of her life to always now remember. And treasure.
That's how I take wedding photos."

WHY HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER

Recently, I corresponded with a lovely new planner in Ontario, Canada. She is just beginning her business, Designed Dream, and we chatted about the many reasons why we both got into the business and the merits of EVERY bride hiring a planner to assist in making this once in a lifetime event happy and stress free. Fidan Ismayilova is committed to making your dream come true, as am I. She sent me this quote from an interview she did, about why she wished she had hired a planner. She found out that even when you are the planner for others, you can't be your own planner. Here is some of what she said. You can read the entire interview here. So, if you are planning a wedding in Ontario, please give Fidan a call. And, of course, if you are planning a wedding in the Philadelphia area- or anywhere, let me tell you how I can help you make your dream wedding a reality! Thanks, Fidan, for your help with this post. And, good luck with your new business!


"You might be wondering: Why do you need a Wedding Planner? What role does a Wedding Planner play?

I asked myself the same questions, but on my wedding day I realized just how much a wedding planner would help. Everything about my wedding: the florist, decorations, photographer, videographer, invitations etc. was organized by me. I thought I took care of everything and that there would be no surprises on the big day itself, that i would get to enjoy my wedding in its fullest. I was brought back to reality though, when a number of little but important last-minute details started appearing on that day. And since I was my own wedding planner, I had to take care of those details myself. As an outcome, I would not relax even for the moment right up until all the guests were gone. A good wedding planner was the only thing missing on my wedding day, one that would take all this stress away, who could take care of all these little last-minute things and let us relax and enjoy the most important day in our lives.

- Not only does hiring a wedding planner provides you with a stress-free Wedding day, but you get a lot more.

-The Wedding Planners let you save your greatest treasure – Time during the preparation phase. You don't need to follow up, negotiate, coordinate with your vendors, don't need to spend time searching for good vendors and looking up referrals. Your Wedding Planner has already taken care of it and has the whole list of selected and trusted vendors.

- But that's not all! Believe it or not, the Wedding Planner can also help you to save your... Money. Wedding Planners always have better deals for their clients, because of the network of vendors and all kinds of discount those vendors are willing to provide.

Think carefully when making a decision regarding hiring Wedding Planners, because you could be making the same mistake I and so many others have made.

Remember, the purpose of your wedding day is to celebrate...Don't let little details get in your way!'

HAVE THEY GOT A DEAL FOR YOU!

THIS JUST IN!!

Drexelbrook has a VERY special offer for couples planning a 2011 wedding. This is a limited time offer, but a tremendous value that you won't want to miss. Drexelbrook is a lush and elegant venue for any wedding celebration. The service is top- notch and the food is as delicious as it is beautifully presented. This Sunday you can visit and see for yourself how incredible it is. Here are the details.

"Drexelbrook Catering has created a very special “Wedding Experience” for couples booking their 2011 Weddings with us Between Sunday February 27th and April 1, 2011. This offer is valid for any 2011 Wedding that books with us during this limited time Choose our “Signature Wedding Experience” At a Very Special Rate & receive the following in addition JOIN US THIS COMING SUNDAY FOR OUR OPEN HOUSE FROM 11:30AM to 4:00PM Sip Champagne, Meet our Team & Enjoy some wonderful Appetizers





















To Make your Wedding Day more “Magical” we would like you To add your own personal touch. Please select two of the following items to Enhance your Wedding Experience:

♡ Silver or Gold Charger Plates to enhance your place setting
♡ Barista Bar ~ Espresso’s, Cappuccinos and Lattes
♡ Up-lighting of your Ballroom in any of our available colors
♡ Drexelbrook’s Signature Ice Cream Sundae Bar
♡ Bananas Foster Station
♡ Waffles & Ice Cream Station
♡ 120’ Round Organza Sparkle Topper for
each of your guest tables
♡ Drexelbrook’s Signature Candy Station
♡ Double Heart Ice Carving ~ (names at an additional charge)
♡ Chocolate Fountain with all appropriate accompaniments
♡ Add on an additional passed hors d’ oeuvre for a total of six
♡ Shuttle Service for 14 of your guests.

$89.00 Per Person Inclusive of 19% Banquet Service Charge & 6% State Sales Tax This exclusive offer is valid for all 2011 Weddings and will expire as of April 1, 2011"

Please stop by on Sunday and take in all the wonderful details that will make your wedding a dream come true.
I look forward to seeing you all there. It will be a great afternoon and you will leave with the knowledge that your wedding wishes will be handled by the best.








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LOVE AFFAIRS

Angel of Hearts was founded in 2003, born out of my need to have a more flexible and fulfilling career and my background in restaurant management and events planning. My experience in sales, design and construction of wedding gowns and some backstage theater work -- costume design and construction and dressing made me want to pursue my heart- helping the bride have a perfect and stress- free day. My philosophy is that the day is about the bride, not about the wedding planner. I get tremendous satisfaction from seeing a perfect day and a happy bride. I work hard and give the extra effort, so you won't see me screaming at the help or sitting around the day of the wedding. What you see is very hands-on and my personal best at every wedding. In the words of some of my most wonderful brides:

All the planning was definitely worth it - but thank God for our wedding coordinator Wendy Hartigan, we could enjoy our day.
Mimi & Mike










Dear Wendy,
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for your amazing work, versatility & thoroughness throughout the past year & especially on our wedding day. You truly went above and beyond from day one. Thank you for being an amazing coordinator.
Love, Joy & Bob








Hi Wendy,
Thank you for making our wedding day so special. You were terrific! Steve and I appreciate all you did to ensure everything went smoothly. It was a wonderful wedding celebration that was over far too quickly...and then we were on our honeymoon trying to absorb it all. We didn't have a chance to thank you properly.
-- Wendy & Steve I love what I do and I love all the beautiful brides that I have worked with. Some are too hard to let go of and so we keep in touch. I have been to baby showers and christenings, networked with and corresponded with so many of my lovelies. I am pleased to have worked in some of the most elegant and interesting venues around, with the best people in the industry. And, I am proud of my work and of my reputation. Thank you to all that have crossed my path in a most uplifting way and to all the stunning brides that have allowed me to be a part of this momentous time in their lives. I look forward to more weddings and to more of you to see that hiring me was the best investment in your wedding. 


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LITRATO = PICTURE

The first time I met Ron Soliman was at the Hyatt Philadelphia on Memorial Day weekend in 2007. We were about to embark on quite an adventure with a very unhappy bride. Ron was great! When she opened the door to the hotel room- 2 hours late, we were waiting for her. Ron had his camera ready. She announced "No Pictures", so he waited for her go- ahead and did some shots of the girls.. Ron never flinched. He shot amazing pictures, he never lost his head and he was a true hero to me that day. Ron owns Litrato Photography. Litrato means "picture" in Filipino. Just look at these images! When you are looking for the photographer for your wedding, you have to ask yourself "what style of photography do I want". Do you want traditional photos? Do you want candids and formal shots? Do you want the photojournalistic style that Ron produces so beautifully. The photographer you choose should understand your vision and be able to produce the kind of memories that you desire. I asked Ron some questions about his style, his background and what he wants you to know about him. Here is what he had to say:
BA: How did you get started?
RON: Before I went full time in wedding photography, I'd been a newspaper/magazine photojournalist for more than 12 years. My assignments and jobs have brought me around the country and even around the world. And my last stop was the East Coast. I call my last job as the director of photography at Delaware's The News Journal my retirement from my newspaper career. Since then, I switched gears to full time wedding photojournalist.

BA: What is your inspiration?

RON: I love documenting people's lives as a photojournalist. And documenting that one happy moment in one's life, the wedding day, inspires me.

BA: What do you want brides to know about you?

RON: I want them to know that photographing and documenting weddings for me is not just a job, it's my passion.

BA: Tell me about your business philosophy

RON: I always go out and beyond when I deal with brides and grooms for their wedding day. I make sure they are over satisfied when I do my work.

BA: Tell me a little about your style of photography

RON: I do photojournalistic style of photography...meaning I capture those moments in your wedding in a candid and unobtrusive way.

BA: What should a bride look for in a photographer?
RON: Talent is first, and personality is second. Remember, among all your vendors in your wedding, you will work with your photographer the longest, even until months after your wedding when you begin to prepare your wedding album. So having a photographer, who is easy to work with will make things go smoothly for you.

BA: Why should a bride choose your company?

RON: Because when you hire Ron Soliman Photojournalism, you are not only hiring "a photographer" but you are hiring someone who cares about the quality of your pictures, and who loves capturing the moments during your special day.

BA: Describe one of your favorite weddings.

RON: This might sound a little corny, but it's the truth...every wedding I shot is my favorite. Because each one is different...you cannot duplicate the kind of emotions captured, and the kind of fun recorded in my images. If you look at my blog- www.litratophoto.com/blog, you will realize what I mean. And each of these weddings are special to me as a photojournalist.

BA: Anything else you would like to talk about

RON: Yes, one of the things that differ us from our competition out there, is our ability to showcase the wedding images we've have taken during the wedding day at the wedding reception. We bring our 30 inch Apple monitor to do this, and it's usually a big hit among your wedding guests. And the best part of this is, we give this to our clients as a gift on their wedding day.

And in this SOCIAL NETWORKING age, we make sure we burn a CD of the images we showed during the wedding reception, so the next day the bride and groom can share these images in their FACEBOOK pages. That you can't beat! =)

Thank you, Ron, for giving me your time and sharing you talent with me. I enjoy working with you and hope that I have inspired my readers to contact you.

FAVORITE THANK YOU'S

Still recovering from my car accident on Monday, it is hard for me to see and to sit at the computer for a long time. My posts have not been as consistent this week. But, I don't want to let down my wonderful readers, so I thought I would mention some of my favorite vendors and let you in on what they have to say about me. Thanks to everyone who understands my commitment to my clients, appreciates my passion for what I do and is willing to tell other brides why I am a good choice.
One of the fine people that I love to recommend is Ron Soliman. What a great eye he has behind the camera. We worked with one difficult bride and Ron never lost his sense of humor. He had this to say:

"Wendy is very helpful and very informative. The last wedding I did with her, she kept me on the loop of what's going on. I will definitely recommend Wendy to all my brides."



When it comes to the music for your wedding, Rennaissance Orchestra is one great choice! They really know how to get the party started and keep it going to the last song! They were so kind to say:


"There are so many components and moving parts that go into making a great event. You need someone to help you put those parts together and guide you through what can be a stressful time. Most importantly you need an advocate that knows your vision and can see it thru. Let Wendy's Affairs of the Heart be your guide!"

I recently did an interview with Kim Bensing of Heirloom Occasions. I just love Kim's designs and her approach to her business.

"Work with Wendy and work with someone who cares. She really understands your wedding and every single detail you care about. Wendy is able to spend all of her time and energy getting to know you, and your fiance, making your day sentimental, and meaningful. You couldn't choose a kinder planner."

Finally, one of my long time friends and a most talented designer, Petah Bashano of Alvin's Flowers. Petah and I have done many events together. He is always inspiring! This is what he thinks of me:

"Wendy's background is not just writing a time line, going to a few meetings and checking contracts. I think brides loose sight as to who is a real planner and who just became a planner because they planned their own wedding and took an online course. Wendy knows bridal fit and fashion, she worked in a bridal salon for years, she worked in event production, then in catering, all the while gaining a lifetime of experience. She knows all that happens behind the scenes because she has worked there. This gives her TRUE insight as a planner. Something you don't get from a certificate. She knows what to expect of a vendor and which are the correct vendors for you. So your day is - perfect. The one thing I love about Wendy is she gives so much of herself to each event. To Wendy it's not just a job, it's a true love affair with her work. Bride's can feel at ease knowing Wendy is on the job."

I enjoy working with all the people that I have been associated with. Part of what makes this job so interesting is the talented and wonderful people that help make a couple's wedding so perfect. I could not do what I do without the help of all of these people and I am so grateful for each and every one of them.