Attitude of Gratitude

I've been hearing that phrase a lot lately - "attitude of gratitude." At first, I have to admit that I just scoffed at it, thinking it was a hollow string of rhyming words. However, I have come to embrace the meaning of the phrase, and wanted to share with you some of the things I'm grateful for over the past year:

I'm grateful for my clients who trusted in my guidance for decor and vendors, and had absolutely beautiful celebrations.

I'm grateful for my clients who challenged me to become a much better communicator.

I'm grateful for the Association of Bridal Consultants, which provides me with education and networking opportunities.

I'm grateful for the wedding professionals with whom I've worked, who enhanced my clients weddings by going above and beyond.

I'm grateful for all the new vendors that I've met but not yet had a chance to work with, because they show me alternative ways of reaching a client's dreams.

I'm grateful for all the emails and cards from my clients, sharing their growing families.

I'm grateful for everyone who reaches out to me for my professional guidance, as it truly is my honor to be asked to share in your most important day.

Personally, I'm grateful for my loving husband, playful cats, supportive family and understanding friends, who constantly remind me that my most valuable possession is them!

Until next time, happy planning...

Finally, I'm on Facebook!

Well, I took some time out this week to check out Facebook. What an amazing site!! I signed up and created a page for Bride Ideas. Check it out by going to www.facebook.com and searching for Bride Ideas. I'm sure there's a more direct route, but that should work!

Feel free to check out the Bride Ideas page - become a fan and/or start a discussion. This is just another way to reach out to you and assist you in your wedding preparations!

At this time of year, we are reminded of all our friends and family who have influenced us along the way. Facebook is a great way to reconnect with those who may have relocated or with whom you simply lost touch.

This week, have a Happy Hanukkah or Merry Christmas! Enjoy your time with your loved ones!

Until next time, happy planning...

Some fun pix from recent conferences

Hi all!! Just wanted to share some photos from the recent conferences I attended. Pictured above is Colin Cowie and myself at the ABC Conference in November in Newport Beach, CA. Colin was the featured speaker at the conference, and shared photos and stories of his simply amazing celebrations all over the world. You will never find a more generous and gentlemanly man!

This photo is (from l-r) of me, Lovelynn Jensen (ABC member and speaker at the Wedding MBA conference), Dena Davey (ABC's Director of Marketing), Joyce Smith (OH state coordinator for the ABC) and Kim Horn (AZ state coordinator for the ABC). The Wedding MBA was a great 2-day seminar that focused on web 2.0 and all things new so that I can better keep in touch with all of you!

To the right is a photo of Mary Dann and myself at the ABC conference just last month in Newport Beach, CA. Mary and I had a wonderful conversation about the wedding industry and she gave me lots of new ideas to bring back to you! She was a featured speaker at the conference, during which she shared some of her insights about the wedding consulting profession.

Hope you enjoyed these photos! Until next time, happy planning...

The Holidays are UPON us!

I just got finished going through my calendar and adding in all the holiday parties we've been invited to. Whew! Seems like there won't be any time to decorate, bake, shop for gifts - let alone actually get work done! And I have a sneaking suspicion that you have the same problem.

I know that we are all busy. Believe me, as a wedding consultant, I totally understand about crazy schedules! All of my clients have so many demands on their time and I am continually working around their requirements and coordinating with vendors' appointments. No easy task! Add in holiday merriment, and getting anything done can be quite an achievement!

So, during this time of year, whether you've been engaged for months or just received the ring, take time away from planning and enjoy being with your family. Create cherished moments! Get inspired! Try not to make wedding planning just another thing you have on your "to do" list.

Until next time, happy planning...

Following a theme - Celebration Studios

Hi all,

I got an amazing response after my last blog post about Calvary Bridal House. I do want to let you know that tomorrow - December 2nd - is the "bar date," or the deadline to submit your proof of claim forms to the court. If you are owed money from Calvary Bridal House, please get your claim form in!! Also, according to court documents, the bankruptcy case for Calvary Bridal House recently was converted from a chapter 11 to a chapter 7, which means the shop is being liquidated and will no longer be operating.

A similar case in the NJ area that affected nearly 4000 couples was that of Celebration Studios. Photographers and videographers subcontracted by Celebration Studios had taken photos/video of all these weddings and then the company went out of business overnight. Here is the good news: you can now pick up your pictures and video!! I don't know the status of them, though - my guess is they are unedited - but, as long as you get the raw data, you'll be able to put them into your preferred format! Here's a link to the story on WCBS NewRadio 880 about Celebration Studios: http://www.wcbs880.com/pages/3365236.php. (special thanks to Roxanne Geyer at WCBS NewsRadio 880 for this link!) I hope I've helped you get your special memories back!

Until next time, happy planning...

Calvary Bridal House in Millburn

Sorry I've been MIA for a bit... From November 7-12, I was in Newport Beach, CA, attending the Association of Bridal Consultants' annual conference. This was my 7th straight year attending conference, and once again, it did not disappoint! I was able to reconnect with old friends from across the globe, meet new and exciting people working in the wedding industry, and learn a great deal from the educational seminars! Colin Cowie was this year's featured speaker, and he brought amazing photos of weddings he's done and graciously posed for many photos! In my next post, I'll publish some of the photos that I took in CA!

However, I wanted to point out an issue that's been going on in NJ - the bankruptcy filing of Calvary Bridal House in Millburn. According to reports, the bridal salon took bride's deposits and orders and simply pocketed the money without submitting the orders to the designers! There's a pretty good article about this in the NJ Star Ledger: http://www.nj.com/independentpress/index.ssf/2008/11/calvary_bridal_leaves_town.html. Apparently, the shop has now relocated to Livingston.

Now, in a former life, I was a bankruptcy attorney. Essentially what will happen is all the brides who purchased gowns - or put money down for dresses but never received them - will be deemed "unsecured creditors." They will be required to file a Claim and will be processed amongst all the other creditors to Calvary Bridal House. The Bankruptcy Court essentially will look at all the money available to pay Calvary's bills, and divide that money up among the creditors. In cases I worked on, unsecured creditors received anywhere from 2 cents on the dollar all the way up to over 90 cents, all depending on a multitude of factors. I can't help but feel really badly for anyone who bought their dress from Calvary, as you will more than likely have to go to another shop for your dress and wait until the bankruptcy is finished before receiving a portion of your deposit back.

Calvary Bridal House isn't the only wedding business to file for bankruptcy and/or disappear lately. Celebration Studios comes to mind, and just a night or two ago I heard of another photography studio in Staten Island closing up without warning. The lesson for you is to check out - as much as you can - how well established the company is, check with the Better Business Bureau, etc. One thing you can do for yourself, though, is to hire a professional wedding consultant who knows the local industry and reliable companies. Sometimes we hear rumblings about companies before they become known to the public; other times, we can steer you to professional vendors who more than likely will provide you with service that exceeds your expectations.

Until next time, happy planning...

62 years

In my last post, I was just leaving for Phoenix to attend a wedding industry conference, and promised to tell you all about it when I got home. Unfortunately, I was derailed from doing that because my grandfather passed away suddenly and I'm only now getting back on track. So, I want to devote this post to my grandfather, and I promise to get back to you with the Phoenix update next time!

My grandfather was 91 when he passed away, and his mind was still sharp as a tack even though his body was getting frail. He and my grandmother (who just turned 90) were married for 62 years! In growing up with them and watching them even when I moved out of the house, I picked up a few pieces of wisdom about marriage that I'd like to pass along.

First, keep your sense of humor...laughter really is the best medicine

Second, maintain communication...be honest and open with each other

Third, feed your own interests...you'll be a happier and more well-rounded partner

Fourth, discuss money and plan for the future...so you'll be able to enjoy your retirement comfortably

Finally, always remember to say "I love you!"

I will miss my grandfather's very dry wit and support of everything I do, but am so happy that I had the blessing of him in my life for as long as I did. He was many things to many different people, but to me, he's simply "grandpa."

Until next time, happy planning...

Off to Phoenix

As I pause from packing to write this blog entry, I'm getting very excited about the conference I'll be attending in Phoenix from Tuesday to Thursday this week. The wedding-industry conference will feature speakers from many different media outlets - from Martha Stewart Weddings to Conde Nast, Get Married and The Knot. Plus, wedding professionals from all over the country will be in attendance. I look forward to sharing my insights with you upon my return!

Until next time, happy planning...

Green Weddings

Today, the big trend is toward "green weddings." If you pick up a bridal magazine or go to any wedding website, you're bound to see an article about how to make your wedding "green." So, what does this really mean?

There are many ways in which to make your big day more eco-friendly. Consider having your invitations and all related wedding paper (your menus, programs, escort cards) printed on recycled paper. Or, you can take it to the extreme and email your wedding invitations - or at least have the rsvp's go to a website. This way, you'll save on both the paper and the transportation costs for the respond envelope to be mailed back to you.

Other ideas that can make your wedding "greener" are to ask the florist if they will compost the leftover flowers. Request that your caterer cook with locally grown produce. There is even a company that will take all of the leftovers from your event and donate it for you to local homeless shelters. (Make sure to check with your reception site to make sure of any restrictions they may have, based upon liability/insurance requirements.)

I hope this post starts your mind thinking of ways to make a huge impact on your guests for your wedding, while limiting the impact to the earth!

Until next time, happy planning...

Moved in!

Well, it's hard to believe that we've been in our new place for over a week now! I'm finally getting rid of some of the astounding number of boxes, and some rooms even look livable!! It actually was nice re-setting up my office here, and culling some of the items while adding others to the display. Of course, there's still nothing on the walls and plenty more boxes to go around...

As we've been suffering this move, I've been contemplating why I kept so many things for so long. Some of it was photos and notes from growing up, which made me smile to look at again. But then there was chipped pottery, waaaay too many tubes of toothpaste(!), lampshades from lamps that we no longer have, and the list goes on. Why? I guess it was part of my pack-rat sentimentality, as well as the "you don't know when you can use this again" thought process. I hope I've learned my lesson - if you're not using it, either donate it or throw it away! Hope this piece of advice helps you as well!!

Until next time, happy planning...

What a wonderful wedding!

I'm in the middle of packing and finalizing all the details for our move on Friday, but wanted to quickly write about the wonderful wedding I coordinated on Saturday. Asa and Alison were just the most lovely people, and their wedding was filled with special touches, which made their day so meaningful for everyone in attendance.

Alison and Asa really incorporated their heritage into the ceremony and reception. They spent their time, and had their MC, thank everyone for coming from far and wide (including many, many other countries). It was the special details that made everyone feel so welcome and happy to be a part of their unique celebration.

One moment stands out in my memory, which is when Asa's father made his toast. He gave Asa a list of 13 tips to make his marriage the most important facet of his life. Then, he blessed Asa (they are from Uganda) -- it was absolutely so heartfelt and moving.

So, when planning your wedding, don't overlook the small touches. While the color of the flowers, your decor and the menu all contribute to making your day memorable, when it really comes down to it, it's your family and friends that make all the difference!

Until next time, happy planning...

Bride Ideas is moving!

Hi all,

I just want to let you all know that as of next Friday, August 29th, Bride Ideas' office will be moving. We'll still be in West Orange, about 1 mile away from our current location.

So, as a result, I don't think I'll be back on my blog until after Labor Day. I promise to post photos of the wedding for Asa & Alison this weekend when I'm back! Plus fill you in on some other new and exciting changes at Bride Ideas!

Until next time, happy planning...

Preston Bailey, and Sylvia Weinstock, and ME!!

Hi all,

Sorry I've been MIA for a bit. My computer decided not to let me onto google.com or cnn.com, so I couldn't get onto my blog! But, thankfully, got that fixed.

Let me fill you in on just ONE exciting thing that happened recently. Well, pictures speak louder than words, so here goes:

On the top, there's a shot of Preston Bailey and me at Sandals Whitehouse in Jamaica, taken during a break for filming a commercial for Preston's weddings at Sandals. Preston is an amazing floral designer and celebrity wedding planner, who has done events for Joan Rivers, Oprah Winfrey, Donald Trump, just to name a few. For more information on Preston, go to his website at http://www.prestonbailey.com/.

The second photo is of Sylvia Weinstock and me during lunch at Sandals Whitehouse. Sylvia is a cake designer extraordinaire - her cakes are legendary! Her creations are so fabulous that she has been dubbed the Leonardo da Vinci of Cakes! Her gorgeous cakes have been show-stoppers at events for Liam Neesom, Mariah Carey, Eddie Murphy, among many others. For more information on Sylvia, go to her website at http://www.sylviaweinstock.com/.

So, while I have been quiet on the blogging front, I've been keeping busy!!

Until next time, happy planning...

"I Just Can't Wait For This To Be OVER!!"

I have to tell you, every time I hear this phrase, I cringe. I feel so sorry for the couple getting married because they are saying that they are just so sick and tired of planning that they seem not to even want the wedding they've been planning. How sad!

The truth is, planning a wedding is nerve-wracking, stressful, worrisome, annoying, frustrating, expensive... Yes, all of these words can be applied to the planning process IF YOU LET THEM. Sometimes it's a well-meaning relative's unsolicited advice that gets under your skin. Other times, your vendor is impossible to reach. Maybe you're not sure of what you want for the bridesmaids' dresses and everyone of them is offering a differing opinion. When you feel like your head is going to spin around like Linda Blair in the Exorcist - STOP. Try to remind yourself that everyone truly has your best interests at heart, and are good intentioned. Everyone just has their own idea of how a wedding "should be" but, truly, only you and your fiance have to be happy with your decisions.

Here's a tip: When you are about 1 month or less away from your wedding, try to get all of your details down on paper (if you're not working with a wedding consultant who is doing this thinking for you). Set a goal to have everything that can be done ahead of time completed no later than one week before your wedding. That way, the week of your wedding, you'll be in "execution mode" - getting your mani/pedi/massage, going to your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, etc., and won't be still trying to "get things done."

Even if you've been engaged for 2 years, you should be excited to be sharing all of your hard work and planning with your friends and family. The dread and exhaustion I hear on TV or from some couples could be turned around. How about trying "I'm so happy the planning phase is over, and now I get to celebrate with my closest family and friends!" Just change the words and you'll be amazed at all of the positive feelings they evoke!

Until next time, happy planning...

Bride Ideas turns 6!!

Today is a big day here at Bride Ideas -- we're 6! That's right, on July 7, 2002, I formed Bride Ideas, LLC, never dreaming I'd be where I am today. I've worked with so many wonderful couples over the past 6 years -- seen so many tears of joy and expressions of love. Thank you for all of your support, and I look forward to what this new year has in store. Lots of exciting changes going on, which I'll fill you in on soon.

Until next time, happy planning...

Honaty & Gaddy celebrate in style

I met Honaty and Gaddy about 6 months ago, when they came to me with little more than a church, reception venue, photographer and videographer. They had some ideas of how they wanted their wedding to be, but not a concrete vision. But, they were open to my suggestions, and we spent the first half of the year creating and defining exactly how they wanted their wedding to be remembered.

Because most of the guests spoke Spanish, the wedding ceremony was conducted in Spanish, and the DJ spoke both Spanish and English throughout the reception. They chose the Richfield Regency, a lovely venue in Verona, to celebrate with their family and friends - and what a celebration it was!

Honaty (and Gaddy too!) chose a purply-pink color as a dominant theme, and the rented linens and all of the paper reflected that choice. The invitations, escort cards, menus and table numbers were all created by Allison of the Satin Bow, and featured a rhinestone buckle. Their attention to detail really made the reception look beautiful!! Don't take my word for it, though, check out this photo of the table setting. I have to admit, though, the linen color did not come out in the photo true to life (sorry, my camera skills don't compare to a professional!).

Honaty & Gaddy really are a wonderful couple. It was my pleasure and honor to have been a part of their fabulous celebration!

Until next time, happy planning...

Lindsey & Jonathan celebrate at the Valley Regency

On May 10th, Lindsey & Jonathan were married at the Valley Regency in Clifton. It was a lovely ceremony and a GREAT party. I swear, the newlyweds were on the dance floor all night!!

Here is one of the first photos of the newly married couple. Lindsey was wearing a designer dress, and the designer was actually in attendance! She was in tears seeing how beautiful Lindsey looked in the gorgeous dress!! This moment is the reason I do what I do...




Their wedding had a gold theme, which was carried out spectacularly in the ballroom, with rented linens and these amazing centerpieces! As you can see, votives hung from the centerpieces with gold ribbon, and the vases were filled with banana leaves. When the lights were dimmed, the room had a glow that was breathtaking.


As the evening came to a close, Lindsey & Jonathan had a kiss bar -- all different candy containers filled with hugs and kisses. They even had framed photos of themselves, hugging and kissing! Each guest was given a bag to fill up, with the sign "Hugs & Kisses from the new Mr. & Mrs." You'd be amazed at how full the bags are when the guests leave (especially the older ones!)!


I hope these photos and brief details of a lovely wedding inspire you!


Until next time, happy planning...

Wedding Ceremony in the garden

On May 2nd, I had the pleasure of attending the wedding ceremony for one of my clients. It's a very long story, but they chose to get married now, and then have a formal church wedding and reception at a later date. So, I actually was able to be present at their ceremony instead of my normal mode of worrying about the next several steps ahead and making sure everything was on track!

Being there, in their moment, reminded me of exactly why I became a wedding planner. I simply adore weddings! The love shared between the couple is so tangible - it spreads to all the guests and fills everyone with hope. Sure, there will be bumps in the road, but remembering all of the love shared on your wedding day will help you weather whatever lays ahead.

Vivian & Luis looked so beautiful on their wedding day, and the gazebo and gardens were just so lovely! For my very first picture on my blog, I wanted to share with you the first few moments after they were married:

Congratulations!!!

Until next time, happy planning...

Take time

This week, I want to write about something that is totally essential to planning your wedding. In fact, it may be one of the most important things that you do during your engagement! Take a break!

That's right, I mean STOP planning every last detail of your wedding for at least a weekend! Go away somewhere with your fiance, or with your girlfriends. Cease obsessing over which way the pocketfold in your invitation should face, and step away from the wedding planning bubble!

I think I just coined a new phrase -- "wedding planning bubble." I now claim the copyright to that term! How apt?! Perhaps more so for some couples than others, but everyone gets caught up in the bubble. Which is totally fine! But, sometimes you need to get out of the bubble and experience things that don't directly relate to your color scheme or favor choices. Re-enter the world outside of your wedding plans, and re-connect with your friends on a totally different plane.

When you return from your weekend "outside the bubble" guess what? All of your choices still will be waiting for you - and you'll be better able to make the right decision for you, simply because you are refreshed. So, take some time and get away!!

Until next time, happy planning...

Rhonda to be locked up!

Next week, on April 30th, I am going to be arrested, put in a paddy wagon and carted off to ... Pal's Cabin in West Orange. My only hope of being released is to raise bail!

Sounds like an episode of CSI? Well, not really! The fantastic cause behind my arrest is the Muscular Dystrophy Society - all bail money will go toward research and to providing assistance to those in need.

For more information about my Lock-Up, please visit my webpage.

Thanks for letting me go off topic this week! Until next time, happy planning...

Wedding Day Timeline

On the day of your wedding, how do you know what needs to be done at what time -- or plan for all of the little details? The answer: a wedding day timeline!

As your wedding planner, about 1 month before your big day, I create a timeline that shows who needs to be where doing what, when. I create this by reviewing all of your vendor contracts, and putting in the times they are supposed to arrive, set-up, etc. It is filled in with the traditions you want to observe, such as the tossing of the bouquet, parent dances, etc. When we meet to go over it, we make sure everything is set out exactly the way you want your day to go. Then, I create individual timelines for each vendor, which I send to them the week before your wedding.

While not the most glamorous part of wedding planning, the wedding day timeline is probably the single most important document needed to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly. While there are times put in, the times become more of an order of events during the reception - but they are strictly adhered to in preparing for your ceremony! I put all the little details into the timeline (if your fiance is allergic to nuts, I make a note of that so that the caterer doesn't give him any toasted almonds on his vegies!) in order to eliminate the need to interrupt you during your celebration to ask a question. Plan ahead so you don't have to worry on your big day!

Until next time, happy planning...

Your invitations

One of the fun things to do when planning your wedding is selecting your wedding invitations. This allows you to be creative with the physical papers used, and to bring in your theme. As your invitation is the first introduction to your wedding that your guests will physically receive, you need to make this selection with care.

The first thing to think about is style. Are you looking for a more traditional look - think cream cards? Is your theme contemporary - how about a pocketfold? Do you want to stress a black tie theme - send the invitation in a black pocket with a white bow. Or, are you having a formal and extravagent event - how about sending your invitation in a boxed presentation?

After you come up with your invitation's style, the next step is to select colors for the papers used and the ink. If you are working with a custom invitation company, there may be literally hundreds of choices for you! Hint: keep with your color scheme to tie the invitations to your wedding.

The next step is wording. There are tons of websites out there that can give you suggestions for your wording. If you're working with a wedding consultant (which you should be!), then she or he can offer you suggestions. There are few hard and fast rules in today's society about wording, but a great resource is Emily Post.

Finally, you'll want to select the font for your printing, which you can use in both the invitation and envelope(s). Once again, there are millions of choices out there, but go with something that's easy to read and goes with your style.

Until next time, happy planning...

A new life together

Right now, as I write this post, my husband and I are in the middle of preparing to put our house on the market. We are now undertaking the most difficult process -- clearing out the clutter and straightening up the closets!

You, as an engaged couple, are about to start your new life together. Some of you may be living together already in the home you will share as a married couple. Others will be moving in together once you say "I do!" Either way, you should step back from wedding planning and make sure you are both ready to purge your old baggage and begin a new slate.

Believe me, I was filled with trepidation before conquering (or at least starting!) the "junk room." Over the past 8 years that we have lived in this house, there always was this one room that just ended up being the place where things ended up. And this room was in shambles! It took one weekend, at least 3 huge garbage bags, 1 huge recycling bin and a lot of patience to go through and get rid of the stuff that we didn't need/want. "Why did I keep that?" Funny to see what you felt was important at one time in your life - turns out to be trash later! But at the end of the weekend, how amazing was it to walk into the "junk room" and see its true beauty!

Before you get married, take a bit of time to get rid of the old stuff - be it literally or figuratively. Cleanse your house, and get ready to enjoy the endless possibilities!

Until next time, happy planning...

Buff Brides

With all of the planning that you're doing for your perfect day -- trying on numerous wedding gowns, doing hair and make-up trials, selecting your jewelry, getting your teeth whitened -- one area to remember is to work out and tone up! After all, you want your body to be in the best shape possible, and you'll have the photos to prove it!

There are so many ways to get in shape available. Think about how you like to work out - are you a gym person, or do you like to work up a sweat in the privacy of your own home? Do you want a personal trainer that comes to your house? Do you have free weights in your basement next to the treadmill, gathering dust? Or, do you like DVDs?

Another consideration is what is your goal? Are you looking to lose weight overall, or tone up your arms only? If you want buff upper arms, jogging around your neighborhood with your dog may not be the best option.

Also, think outside the box! I started doing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu about 1 1/2 years ago and, without changing my diet, lost 20 lbs. Not to mention gained a lot of confidence and cardio health!

Until next time, happy planning...

Honeymoons

My favorite topic! I love to travel, and have been lucky enough to have seen many parts of this beautiful world, so I enjoy assisting my clients in selecting their honeymoon destinations.

There are so many places to choose, it's almost overwhelming at the beginning. When working with a client, I start with how they like to relax. Do they go hiking, skiing and scuba diving, OR do they go to the beach? In other words, are they active or more laid back? Another question I ask is whether they want to go sightseeing on their honeymoon, or want to go to a resort where everything is included and they don't have to leave the property. Also, do they want to stay within the US, or travel abroad?

Based upon their responses and budget, I make recommendations for places for them to consider. Beach bum? Think Mexico, the Caribbean or Hawaii. Sightseers -- Europe or South America. Adventurists, how about an African Safari? Resort-lovers should look at Sandals or even a cruise. Exotic locale? Try Bora Bora (where I spent my honeymoon), Australia or Asia.

Once we zero in on a location, I usually recommend a travel agent to help them with their booking. While online booking engines certainly can be expedient, I've found that, especially with a honeymoon, getting that personal touch with insider knowledge really enhances the experience! After all, your wedding day is filled with professionals - shouldn't your honeymoon be as well?

Until next time, happy planning...

Congratulations...the winners are

Thanks to everyone who sent me emails in response to my last post!! The answer is no more than 50% of your total wedding budget should be spent on your reception - and less is better!!

The winners, who each received 2 complimentary tickets ($40 value) to the Association of Bridal Consultants' bridal show, Before "I Do," coming up on March 16th at Dolce Basking Ridge are Kirby Henderson, Amanda Huckabee and Mike Luteran. I look forward to seeing them -- AND YOU -- at this amazing show!!!!

Rhonda tapped to create "something special" for the ABC bridal show

As a senior member of the Association of Bridal Consultants, and a co-director for the North NJ networking group of the ABC, I have been asked to add a very special touch to the upcoming ABC bridal show on March 16th at Dolce Basking Ridge. Of course, the show will have lots and lots of ABC vendors (yes, the ABC has vendor members, despite its rather unfortunate name!) showcasing their products and/or services. The show also will have great food provided by Dolce Basking Ridge, and beautiful wedding gowns worn by models walking through the venue. And there will be an awesome gift bag for the attendees!



So, what more could a bridal show ask for? How about a chance for you to get up close and personal with leading ABC wedding consultants and vendors?! I set up "meet and greets" with a whole bunch of people on a variety of topics, such as getting your wedding in print, amazing honeymoons, personalizing your wedding, why you need an ABC wedding consultant.... The list goes on an on!!! In small groups, you'll be able to get tons of valuable tips from the experts, ask questions, and really take away important information to make your wedding even more amazing.



For more info about the show and to register, which is called Before "I Do" (catchy, huh?), go to the website at http://www.beforeido2008.com/. Tickets are only $40 for the first 2 people, and $25 for each additional person.



Now, for the added bonus: For the first 3 people who correctly respond to the following question, I'll give you 2 free tickets each! All I ask is that you find me during the show and introduce yourselves! So, here's the question: How much of your wedding budget should be allocated for the venue? GOOD LUCK!!

How much do you charge for a wedding?

I get this question at least once per week: "How much is a wedding?" Well, where do I begin???

The answer to this question is very complex, because every couple is looking for different assistance from a wedding consultant. I can do as little or as much as you need -- from simply creating an "engagement blueprint" (a monthly to do list and budget) to attending every single meeting with your vendors. I offer my clients a wide variety of options to fit their needs - both emotional and budgetary.

So, the better question to ask a prospective wedding consultant is not "How much for a wedding?" but rather "How can you help us achieve our wedding vision?" When interviewing wedding planners, focus on three things: how well you "connect" with the planner, what types of services the planner is offering and the planner's qualifications. It's very important that you and your planner get along well because he or she will be working very closely with you over the next months, and you'll need to be excited to be working together! As for the services being offered - if you want a filet mignon sauteed in garlic, you don't head to McDonald's, right? The same way, make sure the services being offered are customized to your exact needs, including your budget! Also, you want to hire a consultant who has been through training and is a professional in the industry - after all you are entrusting your most important day to this person!

Until next time, happy planning...

Giants Win!

I have to admit - I didn't watch the football season. I did catch the Giants win over the Packers (in OVERTIME!). Well, I just watched the Superbowl -- WHAT A GAME!!!

I hope all you engaged couples out there took time away from planning to watch this great game. The Patriots really played well, but had the weight of their undefeated record. All I can say is "WOW"!

Until next time, happy planning ...

New Website LAUNCHED!!!

Well, Bride Ideas has done it again! Last week, I launched my second site for Bride Ideas - www.rhondaweddings.com.

I invite all of you to check out the new site, and let me know your thoughts!

Until next time, happy planning...

Budgeting basics

I've been meeting with a lot of newly engaged couples lately, and their biggest concern is their budget. How much should they be putting aside in total for their wedding? How much should every vendor charge? These are valid questions, and very real concerns!

I think the average US wedding costs around $28,000. However, I know that the average northern NJ weddings costs around $40,000. That's for about 100 guests! That IS a lot of money!

To be honest, I've worked with budgets from $20,000 to $150,000 -- and every couple has to really identify the most important aspects of their wedding and allocate their dollars accordingly. Even the highest budgets will choose less expensive alternatives to stay within their monetary framework!

The first thing to keep in mind is to NOT, I repeat NOT, spend more than 50% of your budget on the reception. And when I say 50%, that INCLUDES taxes, service charges, gratuities! If your budget is $50,000, then you have $25,000 TOTAL to spend at your reception venue. And if you have 200 people attending your wedding, that breaks down to $125/person, inclusive. So, when you're going to look at places, I recommend looking at those places that charge $100/person, just so you know you'll be at or below the $125/person mark when all the "extra charges" (tax, tip, service charges) are added in.

Once you've allocated 50% for your venue, place dollar figures for the rest of your vendors. Then, when you go and meet with vendors, stick to your line items! Of course, if you go over or under in one category, you must adjust your budget accordingly down the line. Hope this advice helps!

Until next time, happy planning...

What is a wedding coordinator and why do I need one?

The title of this post is a common question that I am continually get asked. What does a wedding consultant do? Why do I need one? The short answers are: (1) anything and everything related to a wedding; and (2) because you don't want to be directing vendors on your wedding day. But, there's a lot more to it than that.

First, a wedding consultant, or a wedding coordinator, or a wedding planner (there are numerous names that we use in the industry, but -- essentially -- all hats provide the same service) is, basically, your wedding's project manager. She (or he) will keep you on track about when to book the vendors and how each vendor fits into your overall budget. She will make recommendations for the best vendors at your price-point. She will run interference with well-meaning but perhaps overzealous friends and family. As your wedding draws closer, she will prepare a wedding day timeline, coordinate with all of your vendors, attend your rehearsal and oversee all aspects of your wedding day. Obviously, I'm just giving a very broad overview of what I do! Consider this: most people wouldn't think of doing their taxes on their own, so why wouldn't you hire a professional wedding consultant to ensure your wedding day runs perfectly?

Second, you do need a professional wedding consultant to point out potential pitfalls, steer clear of less-than-quality vendors, educate you on etiquette issues and work behind-the-scenes for you on your wedding day. You can hire most wedding consultants to come in for the final month before your wedding to tie up all the loose ends and be the go-to person on your wedding day. So why not take advantage of what a professional can offer you?!

Until next time, happy planning...

Reception venues - where to start?

One of the first things on your wedding planning agenda (after you hire a wedding consultant!) is to find the perfect place to celebrate your wedding. Every couple has their ideal venue in mind -- some based upon price, others upon location, style, decor, food, etc. There's a facility out there for everyone!

Here in NJ, we have all sorts of venues. Traditional ones like banquet halls and hotels, more unique locations such as mansions and museums, we have them all! Your first step should be to check out their websites. While not all websites are created equal, they at least give you a flavor of the facility. Once you've selected some facilities to visit in person, give the banquet manager a call to confirm that your date is available and to set up an appointment. Don't just show up and expect someone to show you around!

When you walk through the doors, take in all of the atmosphere, ambiance, decor, etc. Remember, this is exactly how your guests will be introduced to your wedding reception! Make sure you see all of the facility that will be used by you and your guests, just to get a proper feel for the place.

After visiting a few facilities, I'm sure one will become the gold standard, upon which all others are judged. When that happens, you know you've made your decision!

Until next time, happy planning...

Happy 2008

Watched the ball drop last night from Times Square -- what a great sight! I actually went to a ball drop many years ago, pre-9/11 and all of the new restrictions. My friends and I were having dinner uptown NYC and finished around 11:3o. We decided to jump in a cab and go down to Times Square. We ended up somewhere near to the ball drop, and saw it go down and usher in a new year, after being outside for only 10 minutes or so! Right after, we jumped in another cab and returned to a friend's apartment on the Upper West Side. It was so much fun!!!

I wish all of you a happy, safe and healthy new year, filled with wedding plans whose celebrations exceed your expectations!!

Until next time, happy planning...