Recently, when idea generating with a June 2010 client, I encouraged them to embrace the uniqueness of their Kansas wedding by celebrating outside during the reception amongst the landscape of prairie grasses, rolling hills with a big sky and a warm sunset. They have chosen the theme 'Prairie Wedding' and as we plan all the small and large details you can look forward to many more blog posts dedicated to this couple.

What I love about the 'Prairie Wedding' theme for this particular couple is that they have embraced the beauty of their home state. They are both from a small town in Kansas and want to have a classy, yet comfortable, wedding that celebrates where they grew up while also blending in the class and style of being a college couple from New York. So, as we are still brainstorming and putting structure to the dreams for their wedding I'm reminded of all the great wedding themes we at MHP have been exposed to.

Megan, the owner and Photographer of MHP, just photographed a wedding for a Professional Bullfighter full of cowboy hats, sunflowers, barns, and southern drawl. The wedding I planned in March for Grace and Sean was a celebration of spring which was reflected in their flowers and colors. And I'll never forget a wedding from last summer where the couple wanted to celebrate their unified love of cats so the reception was decorated with feline touches.

One of my favorite things about being a wedding planner is the unique individuals I come in contact with, and the joy of celebrating their individuality as I help them plan their most special day. So, as you plan and envision your theme remember to stay true to who you are and where you've come from and always remember to celebrate the journey's that have brought you together.

Labels: Wedding Planning Tips, Wedding Style

Congratulations!!! You're Engaged!!!

Now what??
I can't tell you how many times I've heard that question. To help, I've made a quick to-do list for you as you start your engagement period!




1)The bride should get a manicure! Everyone will be checking out the ring so spend a little time, in enjoying the moment, and pamper those hands!

2)Don't rush...well unless you want to get married in less than 90 days. Otherwise you and your fiance' should take some time, a couple weeks at least, and really enjoy just being engaged.

3)While you're taking that time, try to have a few heart to heart chats, just the two of you, in regards to the upcoming wedding day. Ask each other questions like, "What do you want our wedding day to be like?" or, "Is there anything you don't want?" If you think it will help, take some notes while you're talking so you don't forget each other's input or a great idea one of you has. Before you get carried away with deciding things like colors and the dinner menu you should talk generally about things like, the wedding date, size, and budget and see what the other is comfortable with. Overall, the most important thing is that the two of you are on the same page when it comes to what you each want your wedding day to look like.

4)When you're ready, set a date. Some people know before they are engaged when the wedding date will be. Other couples wait, sometimes months, before picking their upcoming wedding date. In either case once you've done number three I think it's a great time to, while including each other's families, set the date.

5)Now you're ready to put together a planning timeline. Using the aid of a published wedding planner is a great place to start when doing this. However, only you and your budget know what you will be including in your big day so don't be afraid to start putting ideas on paper. During this process you'll get a really good idea of the scope of planning required to make your wedding day happen. At this point the couple, and their family, usually realize if they are going to need a professional Wedding Planner. If so, some couple's will know to what extent they'd like help, while others aren't quite sure. But once you know you need the help of a professional it's time to set up an initial consultation.

6)Follow your timeline and start planning!

Now you are on your way to having the wedding of your dreams! Congratulations again and happy planning!

Labels: Colorado Springs Wedding Planning, Wedding Planning Tips

As a wedding planner, having a very functional vendor list is central to my being able to provide, you, the client, with exquisite services for your wedding.

So, to all of you who are wondering-- yes, I do have a vendor list. I have a recommended vendor for everything you need, from invitations, to the getaway car. I strive to meet with, introduce myself, and become very familiar with the vendors I suggest to my clients. My goal is to know the owners of these businesses personally and to be on a first name basis with them.

One of the great things about hiring me as your wedding planner is that I've already done the homework when it comes to vendors in the Colorado Springs region. As stated here, I strive to get to know you and your style. So when you ask me for a florist, or a venue suggestion I'm able to draw from my vendor list based on my knowledge of who you are as well as what kind of vendor will best meet your needs. I make it my goal to have a professional relationship with a variety of vendors so that, no matter the style of your wedding, your needs will be met.

When I send you to a vendor, and I will not always join you as is the case with package one, I will make sure you have a thorough knowledge of who they are and if they will be able to more than accommodate your needs based on your finances. I always call or meet with the vendor in advance to make sure they can meet your needs before I send you their way. I don't ever want you to waste your time and leave a vendor interview frustrated.

When you head off with or without me you can have confidence in knowing that the vendor you are about to meet will be:

Professional
Offer you the highest quality
Will more than meet your needs financially
Is qualified to offer you their service
Takes pride in what they do
Is 100% committed to pleasing you and making sure your needs are met

The amount of vendors you need to contract for your wedding will be totally dependent on the logistical requirements of your day. But when you hire me to serve as your wedding planner you can rest assured that no matter your needs or wishes I've sifted through the array of professionals in our area and am prepared to simplify the process of vendor selection for you.

Labels: Colorado Springs Wedding Planning, Vendor Selection