WEDDING TIPS:

• Set a budget and then stick to it. Click here to download our custom designed spreadsheet and track every purchase as soon as the money is spent.
  
  
• Prioritize.
  
  
• Don't invite more guests than you can spend one minute talking to during the reception.
  
  
• To avoid overtime charges for service staff or wedding venue fees consider booking for an extra hour.
  
  
• Focus on things that are meaningful to you rather than what you think might be most impressive to others.
  
  
• Consider donating your flowers to a hospital after the wedding. This is not only a way to spread the happiness, but is also an income deduction as a charitable donation.
  
  
• As a money saver, consider having your wedding on a weekend or during the off-season months from November to April (except Holidays).
  
  
• You can order your wedding invitations online or even make your own.
  
  
• For flowers, choosing local, in-season blooms will save you money.
  
  
• Out of respect for your guests, don't have only a cash bar at the reception. You have invited guests to celebrate your day, so you should provide at least some of the drinks free. An alternative to a cash bar is handing out drink tickets or provide wine with dinner and then a cash bar.
  
  
• Do not wait too long to purchase your dress. Order at least 8 months in advance and have the alterations completed two weeks before the ceremony. On this note, do not try to lose an impossible amount of weight - you are beautiful now, and will be on your wedding day.
  
  
• Consider using a wedding website to inform guests, list gift registries, provide maps to the wedding venue and to share photos.
  
  
• When you begin to plan your wedding, buy a binder to organize all the information, vendors, photos of ideas for gowns, etc.
  
  
• A few days before the wedding, call each of the vendors to confirm details, date and time.
  
  
• Of course, to avoid having to do many of these yourself and keep stress at a minimum, hire a wedding planner. This person will take you step-by-step through the wedding planning process, right up to the honeymoon. A wedding planner will know and have relationships with excellent vendors and get the best deals.

Wedding Planning FAQs

Why would I hire a wedding planner?

Creativity and organization takes practice. Wedding planning is an art form in motion. Hiring a wedding planner means you get the benefit of their experience and knowledge.

A wedding planner is a project manager, orchestrating every detail of your big day, ultimately saving you time and money. A bride and groom often have many conflicting pressures and often need help bringing everything together. A wedding planner has already screened the vendors you will need and can bring them together staying within your budget. We are there to help you so that you can enjoy the most of this magical and perfect day.

Isn't a wedding consultant expensive?

Honestly, there are very expensive wedding planners out there, but this is not the rule. You decide how much you want to spend and we provide the best value for your event. We can simply point you in the right direction, refer you to reputable vendors and give you ideas, or we can plan and orchestrate everything from the engagement party to the honeymoon. You decide.

What should I consider when choosing a wedding planner?

You should choose someone who has professional credentials and you feel a connection to. You will be spending a lot of time with your wedding planner, so choose someone you feel very comfortable discussing personal aspects of your wedding with - inevitably, awkward situations will arise and you will need some trusted impartial advice.

How will you charge for your service?

We charge an hourly rate, percentage of overall cost, fixed fee, or some combination of these options. We recommend that our services be a part of your budget, and not an extra expense. The cost will be agreed upon in writing once you decide to use our services. We are committed to providing the best possible wedding, within your budget.

Do you offer a free initial consultation?

If you choose to use our services the initial consultation is free. If you just want some ideas and direction the fee is $75.00 per hour.

How can I prepare for my consultation?

Bring your dreams, photos and your written questions. Don't have too many people attend the initial consultation; the focus should be on you.

Do you belong to any professional associations?

Yes. I am a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants and Cosmetology Industry Association of British Columbia.

Do you work with limited budgets?

Yes. No wedding is too small. Usually a small wedding is charged at a flat rate.

How far in advance do we need to book wedding planning services?

Book as soon as you can to avoid disappointment. Some wedding venue locations are booked 18 months in advance. Wedding dresses can take up to a year to get. However, if you are short on time and we have time and space available, we will come up with creative solutions to make your day magical and memorable.