Wedding

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4 Things You Should Expect From Your Wedding Day Manager

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We understand! Planning your wedding is hard. This is probably the first time you have planned something this large, with this many moving pieces and to be frank, this expensive. You want to know that you have made all the right decisions and spent your hard earned money well. So you hire a wedding day manager (day of coordinator, planner, wedding manager, etc.) to help with the stress and to ensure your hard earned money and all your tough decisions play out perfectly. How do you know you’ve put your trust in the right person? Take a look at 4 things you should expect from your wedding day manager.

Involvement

Your wedding day manager should be involved before the week of or day of your wedding. While not a full or partial planner, they are still responsible for knowing your vendors, venue and your vision for your wedding day which they can’t reasonably do if they don’t get involved sometime between 2 and 3 months prior.

We are passively involved from the moment you sign our contract - gathering documents, reviewing contracts, offering referrals and being available to answer questions. We become actively involved 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding - working on your timeline, floorpan, reaching out to your vendors gathering needed day of information and working with you to put all the little details together.

Availability

Like any business your wedding day manager may have office hours and may have even limited communication based on the package that you purchased with them. Totally understandable, we have them too! However, their availability to you should not be completely cut off until a certain date passes. Not being available to you before a certain date means that they have to go into potential crisis management mode and play catch up, plus they can’t advise you on decisions that may have consequences that you are unaware of.

We want to know all about your wedding! Talk to us as much as you would like!! We are available to answer questions during our business hours via email starting the day you sign your contract. We want to know what is going, what you are thinking and how your wedding day vision is evolving. Knowledge is power and we want all the information!

Communicative

This one should go without saying, but your wedding day manager should communicate with you on a semi regular basis, from the time you contract until your wedding day (monthly communication at a minimum) just to check in and make sure everything is still proceeding on schedule. What shouldn’t happen is that you send them some money and then not hear from them until your official “start work date” occurs.

We talk to you about how often you want to hear from us. If you want us to check in every couple of months, we will. If you want monthly check-in’s we’re happy to do that as well. Our open door policy truly encourages you to reach out to us as well!

Friendliness (and TBH controlling, too)

Your wedding day will be one of the most emotional days of your life. You will experience high highs and low lows. You need a friendly face around and you also need to know they are in control of the entire day. Your wedding day manager should be friendly but in control at all times. At no point in the time leading up to your wedding should you feel like a burden, like you aren’t important or that they aren’t in control.

One of the reasons we like to talk face to face before you hire us is so you can get to know who we are as people. What you see is truly what you get. We want to ensure that we click and that you trust us absolutely. On your wedding day we are your cheerleader, your advocate, your director and yes, occasionally your bouncer.

If at any point in your planning process you don’t feel that your wedding day manager is fulfilling your expectations, have a sit down chat with them. You need them to be in your corner every single step of the way.

Haven’t hired someone yet? Reach out and schedule a FREE consultation so we can get to know each other, let’s see if we click!

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Wedding Hot Button Topic - Venue Coordinators versus Wedding Day Coordinators - Is there really a difference???

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Image - Allison Slater Photography

We exhibit at a bridal show a couple of times a year. We love meeting all the newly engaged couples that are looking for ideas and of course are looking for vendors like us to help make their wedding day amazing! One of the things that we have noticed lately, more so than other years, is the influx of people commenting that they don’t need a wedding coordinator, their venue has a day of coordinator included in their price. When we ask what specifically is included, the answer is - “They say they do everything you do, so to not waste our money.” This makes me sad on so many levels because 99% of the time it just isn’t true. And by the time the client figures it out (if they ever do) it is way too late to do anything about it. Keep reading to learn more about what they typical venue coordinator does and what we do.

Venue Coordinator

Also known as a venue manager, and can be merged with a maitre d’ or banquet captain, venue coordinators are working for the venue. That is who is signing their paychecks and who they must keep happy in the end. They handle all of the details specific to the venue - tours, bookings, contracts, communicating with set up staff, banquet staff and housekeeping/maintenance.

Some venue coordinators will do some minor set up of client provided items. Some will do a little more. They will more likely than not leave before the end of your wedding reception and hand you over to someone you have never met before and knows nothing about you or your wedding beyond what their BEO states. Venue coordinators have a high turnover rate so the person you starts with may not be the person you finish with. If there is a dispute or issue that concerns the venue, they will focus on the best outcome for the venue and not you.

Wedding Day Management Specialist

Also known as a wedding coordinator or day of/month of coordinator, wedding day management specialists are working for you, the couple. You are the one signing their paycheck and you are who they must keep happy. They handle ALL of the details for ALL of the vendors including the venue - meeting vendors, reviewing contracts, creating and maintaining the timeline, assisting with all aspects of the wedding day from the minute you wake up until you leave the reception.

Most wedding day management specialists will set up client provided items. The majority of them will stay until the end of the night. If they are working multiple events, you will know in advance and will know and have worked with your lead coordinator prior to the day of. If you have a dispute or issue with the venue they will be your advocate and have your best interests at heart. They know you, know your wedding details and your vision. They know all the things that are the most important to you.

Big Picture

There are some AMAZING venue coordinators out there. They work well with all the vendors, they care for their couples and do way more than the average.

We love working with most of the local venue coordinators!!!! But they don’t do everything we do.

The great ones will welcome an outside coordinator with open arms because they know that they can’t focus all of their attention on the client and they can’t handle all of the details, especially if they are trying to handle multiple events at the same time. They know that by working as a team, nothing will be left to chance, that all the bases will be covered and that any issues will be dealt with quickly and with little to no disruption of the wedding.

If your venue coordinator tells you that you don’t need an outside coordinator, please stop and ask them why. Ask them to provide you a list of duties they execute, in writing. Then use our handy guide to compare what they do versus what we (and most coordinators) do.

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10 Things You NEED In Your Wedding Day Getting Ready Room

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Image by Graced By Light Photography

It’s time!!!! Grab your wedding dress, your veil and head over to your bridal suite to begin getting ready, it’s time to get married!!

Before you head out, take some tips from this wedding day manager on a few extra things to grab, just in case -

(Oh, and a little heads up - We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. What this means is, if you click one of the links and purchase a product on this page, I receive a small monetary compensation from Amazon. The price you pay is not increased in any way to cover this compensation.)

Now for the good stuff!!!

Reusable StrawS

You’ll want these throughout the day, but especially after you have your lipstick on. Not only do you need to hydrate, you’ll want to keep your lipstick fresh and keep the possibility of spills down to a minimum!

Button-down Shirt

We know that the cute t-shirts that match are all the rage. all over Pinterest and let’s be honest, you want them for the cute pictures! Instead, opt for a cute button-down shirt with embroidery or in fun colors to make it so much easier to get changed into your dress without messing up that expensive hair and makeup.

Snacks and Water

Please, please, please take (and eat) some healthy snacks and loads of water to drink while you’re getting ready. You will be so busy - getting ready, taking pictures and saying those I do’s (YAY!!!) that staying hydrated and having energy will be the last thing on your mind, but will be the first thing you miss (especially if you’re the type that gets hangry).

Needle and Thread

Inevitably someone will pop a button, rip a seam, or tear a dress. Be prepared with a small sewing kit.

 

Spray Deodorant

While spray deodorant may not be your thing typically, you’ll want some on your wedding day. Trust me, you’ll want to apply one last time after you get into your dress and apply some on your thighs (chafe on your wedding day will not be your friend)!

Shout Wipes and a Tide Pen

Spills happen, especially when you have a lot of people in a small space, with make up and hair products and snacks and drinks and possibly even little ones all in one place at one time. This is another one of those would rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it things - trust me!

Note Paper and a Pen

Take a few minutes while your getting your hair and makeup done and write down a few things that you love about your partner and a couple of memories from the day. Send the note to your partner and then keep it to look back on.

Charger Cords

I know this one seems like a no brainer, but I can’t tell you hw many times I’ve been asked for an extra cord for a phone, iPad or Kindle (and I have them all). And make sure you bring the wall adapter.


 

Fashion Tape

This one isn’t just for you - depending on the dresses your ladies are wearing they may need to keep things more secure - no wedding day wardrobe malfunctions!

 

Boutonniere Pins

So, this one is for the guys! If your florist doesn’t use magnet backing, they will typically only send one pin with each bout. You will need two - get the black headed ones and make sure they are extra long!

 

I know that you don’t want one more thing to think about, and if you are a Sweet I Do’s client, these are things we have for you because we want you to be in the moments and making the memories! If you aren’t a client, reach out and see what we can do for you!

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First Looks - They Aren't Just For Your Spouse To Be

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Image by Harley Bonham Photographic Artist

Some of my favorite moments of a wedding happen just before the ceremony. I adore watching all the details come together, seeing all of the beautiful people and watching all the moments unfold. As a wedding day manager I encourage a first look - it helps with nerves and it allows you to get a ton of the formal, posed pictures out of the way allowing so much more time for couples portraits.

But first looks aren’t just for couples!

I also strongly encourage (if it is at all possible, I know sometimes it just can’t happen) a first look between a bride and her dad, a groom and his mom, a bride and her mom, a groom and his dad or any other combination. Having those moments when a parent sees their child, all decked out and about to walk down the aisle about to become someone’s amazing spouse, recorded for all time is so very precious. Images evoke memories and these memories can be so emotional that I want to ensure that if it is at all possible to arrange, it happens. Taking those five minutes now will be so worth it in 20 years!

Ask your photographer to help make this happen!

When your photographer reaches out and asks about your must have images, ask to have this moment added in to the mix. It can be done just prior to your first look with your future spouse and won’t add that much time to your timeline. Keep it sweet and simple and have your makeup artist on stand by to do a little touching up before you cast eyes on your fabulous spouse to be!

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Wedding Alcohol Calculator

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Buying the alcohol for your wedding? Have no idea how much to buy? Let us help! Check out our guide below!

Tips

  • Buy in bulk and/or by the case. Most Sam's Club and Costco's will allow you to shop without a membership and will accept returns of unopened bottles/cases. Bevmo will ice and deliver your alcohol if you purchase more than $500.00 in products.

  • Make sure to get a licensed/insured bartender to serve your alcohol.

  • Get event/wedding insurance with an alcohol rider to protect yourself and your guests.

  • Ask your bartending service if they provide glasses, ice, napkins, mixers, etc.

  • Tip your bartender through their contract/personally and ask that they not put out a tip jar.

 

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You Can't Save Money By Avoiding the "W" Word

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And trying to lie about it may cost you in the end!

Wedding Cross Out.jpg

You've gotten engaged and are busily planning your wedding. You think you have a good idea what everything will cost. You start shopping around and discover almost everything seems to cost more that you expected!!!

The Myth

You do a little research and think you've discovered the reason - everyone out there (i.e. all the "experts" on the internet) claim that you're paying more because you're using the word "wedding". That there is this huge conspiracy of professionals that are part of the "wedding industry complex" just waiting to take advantage of you.

The Reality

Wedding professionals do typically charge more for a wedding. Now, I know what you are thinking - "I told you I was getting taken advantage of by saying it was for a wedding. I'm just  gonna say it's for a party and save some $$$$!"

You may save some money, but you will lose many, many things.

The Losses

  1. You'll lose your professionals trust. It's not a great way to start a relationship by lying to your vendors/professionals. They won't trust you for the rest of the night and trust is a hard thing to work without.

  2. You may void your contract by lying. Big deal right? Once they show up what are they going to do, leave? No way! They'll still do the work, so you win a discounted fee for the same service, right? Wrong!!! They can chose to leave, to refuse to work unless their fee (probably at a higher cost then if you had just told them the truth) is paid or hold your end product hostage until you pay up.

  3. They won't be properly prepared for your wedding. Dressed in shorts and a t-shirt because you lied and said it was a casual party versus dress clothes - a real possibility! Show up a little late because timing isn't critical to a birthday party - sure thing! Bring the incorrect items or amount of items because you didn't give an accurate head count or portray the importance of no substitutions - count on it! Reduce the amount of staffing because it is just a party and has no critical moments or needs any extra care - yep! And the list can go on and on...

  4. You'll lose the time and extra care that goes into a wedding. I know, I know, every event should have the same amount of time and care, but reality is a wedding is a one time, one shot deal. Every pro that I know takes a little more time, a little more care, puts little more work in when they know that they have one chance to capture/work/create that once in a life moment.

Truth

Do you want to know why products and services cost more for a wedding?

Because there is a level of expectation with a wedding that doesn't exist with most other events.

Photographers capture more images, have more people to pose, have a vested interest in making sure that every single image is flawless. And to do this it takes TIME and TALENT, both of which cost money.

Florists hunt up the most perfect blooms they can find, spend extra time arranging and rearranging those blooms, spend extra time ensuring each and every flower will withstand the rigors of posing, moving and handling that occurs during a wedding. This takes TIME and TALENT.

Bakers spend more time ensuring that every decoration, every angle of a wedding cake is perfect. Typically a head baker handles the wedding cakes and an apprentice or new team member handles low key event cakes to "practice" on.

Do you see the recurring theme here - TIME and TALENT.

Weddings take more time and talent to execute. To get that Pinterest/IG worthy wedding takes time and talent.

Time and talent rightfully cost more money. You wouldn't be happy if someone came into your place of employment, had half the skills and education you did and worked half the time you do, but made the same salary as you. Why would you expect your wedding professionals to work for less and produce more?

I know this seems preachy, and it is. This lie that we charge you more just because has got to die. We charge more because we do more. If you don't see how or understand why, please just ask. We'll be happy to explain all the more that you get when we are working a wedding versus any other event.

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Real Wedding - Michelle & Andrew's Wedding Candy Buffet - Grayhawk Golf Club - Scottsdale, Arizona

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Michelle & Andrew wanted something to add a bit of whimsy to their semi-destination wedding at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. They reached out to us and together we created a pretty pink and gray candy buffet that was just a little bit whimsical and a little bit classical and a huge hit with their guests.

The Details

Michelle & Andrew chose a few classic candies and a few fun candies to complete their vision. Guests were able to select chocolate or yogurt covered pretzels, strawberry or pina colada gummy bears, Trolli Strawberry Puffs, watermelon rings and pink and gray sixlets (these are delicious! They taste like a Whopper but have the consistency of milk chocolate!!). The treat containers were pink and gray organza bags with a cute personalized tag. Floating candles, silver votives and a fun sign completed the table.

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Real Wedding - Debbie & Steve's Wedding Candy Buffet and Dessert Table - Anthem Country Club - Anthem, Arizona

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Debbie & Steve are an amazing couple that wanted a beautiful wedding and to celebrate with their families and friends. Debbie's mom reached out to have us set up a fun candy and dessert table that was filled with chocolate and a couple of non-traditional dessert items.

The Details

The gorgeous Anthem Country Club was the setting for Debbie & Steve's candy buffet and dessert table. Guests were treated to traditional M & M's, Snickers, Hershey's fun size bars, doughnut holes, chocolate covered Oreo's and popcorn for that salty touch. The guest treat containers were organza bags in wine and cream with a personalized tag - "It was sweet of you to join us! Steve & Debbie March 17th, 2018"

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Real Wedding - MaryJo & Perry's Wedding Candy Buffet and Dessert Table - Anthem Country Club - Anthem, Arizona

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MaryJo & Perry are the cutest couple! Their wedding was all about their guests and they did everything they could to create an amazing experience, while still keeping it personalized. Their wedding took place at the gorgeous Anthem Golf Club in Anthem, Arizona.

 

The Details

MaryJo & Perry loved the idea of having old fashioned candies, mixed with some amazing desserts and alternative options to a full on candy table.

Their guests were able to choose from yogurt pretzels, brownie bites with caramel and chocolate drizzle, pina colada licorice, kettle corn, doughnut holes, root beer rock candy sticks and York Peppermint Patties. The guest treat containers were kraft tin tie bags with a personalized label and hand applied copper and grey ribbons (the wedding colors).

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Did You Really Hire That Vendor? - Why You Need to Double Check and Then Check Again

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You've been busily planning your wedding for months.

You've reached out to a ton of vendors and picked your favorites.

You're fairly certain that everything on your checklist is completed and all the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted.

STOP!!!

If you don't have a planner or coordinator working for you to follow up and ensure that everything is done, contracted, paid for and confirmed, you need to take a step back and look at everything again.

What you need to look for

Starting with your venue and going down the list of all of your vendors and yes, even those small Etsy purchases and Amazon Prime shipments, double check that 

1. Every contract has been fully executed and details out specifically what you are getting and when you will be getting it. If you don't have a contract, double check that the receipt shows paid in full, what you ordered and when you will receive it.

2. That all payments have cleared your account. Regardless if you paid by debit card, check, auto-withdrawal or some other form of payment check to make sure you can prove that you have paid everything in full.

3. Remember that conversation you had with your florist after your consultation about adding an extra corsage to your order and that you wanted flowers for the cake? Check to make sure it got added (and paid for if necessary).

4. Keep track of all online purchases and make sure that you completed the transaction and you know when the items will arrive. Be diligent if your estimated shipping date has passed and reach out to get a revised date. 

5. If you aren't sure that something will be provided, ask the question. It's better to ask and find out you need to get it versus expecting it and having no way to get it on your wedding day.

I have coordinated so many weddings where something was implied or casually discussed and never made it into the actual orders for the wedding - cake stands, extra flowers for the cake, cake toppers, cute favors that never shipped, things that got delayed and couldn't be used at the wedding and couldn't be sold or returned afterwards. Protect yourself from that moment of sadness when you realize that something that meant enough to you to find and order it or ask for won't be happening - track your vendors and purchases and revisit this list frequently to ensure everything is exactly the way you want it and arrives on time!

Bonus!!!

You can use this checklist of purchases when packing everything to take to the venue, then nothing will get left behind!

 

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Real Wedding - Nastaran & Mehran - Chateau Luxe - Phoenix, Arizona

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Every wedding should tell a story, a love story of two people who want nothing more in this world than to share a little bit of their love and happiness with their closest family and friends. Nastaran and Mehran brought together family and friends from all over the globe for their gorgeous Persian wedding aghd (ceremony) and mehmoonee (reception). Every detail reflected their heritage, their love and most importantly to them their family ties. From the ceremony that included traditional Persian wedding songs sung in Farsi by Nastaran’s mom to the presentation of the gifts from the parents to the couple to the private vows presided over by Nastran and Mehran’s church priests every moment was part of a beautiful homage to their Persian culture and family values.

The Ceremony

Their ceremony, held in the beautiful entrance of Chateau Luxe under the gorgeous chandelier, was a mix of western wedding traditions and Persian wedding traditions. There was no wedding party, however Nastaran and Mehran’s sisters acted as ceremony emcee’s and guided the guests through the ceremony elements, read excerpts from the Quran and acted as witnesses to the signing of the marriage certificate. Nastaran’s mom sang traditional wedding songs in Farsi (a hauntingly beautiful language). The aisle was roped off so that Nastaran was the first person to walk down it towards their Sofra Aghd. The Sofra Aghd is a low table that is at the head of the aisle and in Persian weddings takes the place of the traditional arch or other item at the head of the aisle in a western styled wedding.

Mehran was waiting at the head of the aisle for Nastaran to enter with her mother and father. After a number of readings from the Quran read by their sisters, the couple was asked a number of questions by their priests. Unlike a western wedding, these questions and their vows were private and only the couple and the priests were aware of what they were at the time (they were repeated later for video purposes). After the ceremony, Nastaran graciously shared her vows with guests that asked – “I swear to our love. I swear to our lives. I swear to every single moment together. I swear to your smile. I swear to my life. I will always love you until the end of our every moment together. I love you and everything you are. I will stay your love until the last moment and beyond“ (this is the English translation of her Farsi vows). 

The Reception

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour with traditional Persian appetizers - kibbeh maklieh (lamb with mince and pine nuts), falafel and puff pastry stuffed with beef. A mixed reception followed the cocktail hour (traditionally Persian weddings separate the genders and only the groom is allowed to be in the same room as the women). This is when the party began! Nastaran and Mehran wanted a western styled grand entrance with their families getting to dance into the reception space, and the dancing didn’t stop for almost 30 minutes! The majority of the guests finally took their seats to enjoy dinner – chicken shish kebabs and beef koobideh on a bed of roasted tomatoes, grilled carrots and saffron rice and were back on the dance floor in what seemed like minutes. There was a small break right after the traditional knife dance (to bless the knife prior to cutting the cake) and then the dancing continued for the remainder of the reception – almost four straight hours! 

At the end of the night, the couple asked for one large group picture, gathered their gifts and left to enjoy their wedding night and honeymoon. They were still dancing as they left!

Meet the Fabulous Vendors

Venue/Catering/Cake - Chateau Luxe

Coordinator - Sweet I Do's

Photographer - Rachel Baker Photography

Videographer - Corona Films

Hair & Makeup - Makiaj Beauty

Pianist - Nathan Jude

Dress - Silhouette Bridal

DJ - Reza Ghorbani

Officiant - Mr. Dehghan and Mr. Mostaghim

 

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Waiting to Hire Your Wedding Vendors at the Last Minute? 5 Reasons You May Want to Change Your Mind

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I know there are a TON of articles out there telling you about all the amazing deals you can get if you wait until the last minute to book your wedding vendors. What I found interesting was none of them addressed the things that can go wrong if you wait until the last minute. Always one to remedy a known deficiency in providing information (lol), here are the horrible, bad and just annoying things that can happen if you wait to hire your wedding day team.

1. Limited choice

And by limited choice we mean in both actual vendors that are available and dates that are open. Usually the "best" vendors, venues and dates are booked a year (or more in advance). While you may luck out, that is truly what you are doing, spinning that luck wheel and hoping it lands on what you've been dreaming of. Reality is you will probably be settling on almost all of it. But we still say spin the wheel, reach out to your preferred venue and vendors and ask about your date. 

2. Limited selection

While you may score a great deal with your florist, cake, or caterer, chances are you may end up sacrificing your wants and dreams for what they "can get on short notice". I've had clients ask for a candy or dessert table the week of their wedding. While normally I can accommodate them, they are limited on what I can provide to what is locally available or what I may have on hand. Sometimes they are really disappointed that they can't have their favorite treats in their very specific wedding colors. If you are going to go this route, be super flexible and roll with what can be procured for your fabulous wedding.

3. Potentially booking a weekend warrior, a new vendor lacking in experience or the vendor that no one else wants to book

I hate this one as it implies that ALL weekend warriors or new vendors are bad. They aren't. But there are pitfalls associated with hiring them. They may not have the flexibility to meet with you in your very limited time frame (and it will cause you stress trying to work into their schedule). They may not have the knowledge to quickly and efficiently work their way into your wedding timeline. As for being left with the vendors that no one wants to book, that is a definite possibility if you wait until the absolute last moment to hire a pivotal vendor. In some cases however, something is better than nothing. Don't skip a vendor just because they may be new or only work on the weekends.

4. Being forced to hire someone without being able to do all the research and vetting needed

A condensed time frame to hire means you have little to no time to research and compare vendors. To look and see if they have a license, insurance and are a proper business. To get references or look at reviews. In a nut shell, no time to actually make a thoughtful considered decision. I would think twice before I hired a critical vendor that can't quickly and easily provide at least proof of insurance and a business license.

5. Thinking you're going to get the deal of a lifetime

You may, or you may end up paying rush fees and premiums, or you may pay exactly the same as if you had booked months earlier. There is no guarantee that any vendor or venue will cut you a deal, just because they happen to be available. Some vendors may feel that you don't value their profession because you waited. Some may prefer to work for full price or not work at all. And some may be thrilled to fill a date in on their calendar, even if it means working for a little less than normal. Be prepared to pay full price, but it doesn't hurt to ask the question on if they offer a discount. The answer is always no until you ask the question.

If you're a flexible couple that truly just wants to get married and doesn't want to (or can't wait to) tie the knot, go for it! Look up a fabulous coordinator (like Sweet I Do's) to help with all the details and make everything run as smooth as possible.

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3 Things to Consider Before Hiring a "Part-Time" Wedding Vendor

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Let me tell you a story. It is 4:30 in the afternoon of an amazing day.

I have a super cute couple that will be walking down the aisle at 5:00.

My assistant and I are in the reception hall setting up the final details when a friend of the bride asks me

where the flowers for the bride and bridesmaids are.

I’m slightly perplexed as I spoke with the florist and she assured me that everything was set and ready to go. I go over to the bridal suite and look around. I see a cascading orchid bouquet that is falling apart, a few individual calla lilies and not much else.

I text the florist (this is the only way she will communicate as she has a full time job that doesn’t allow her to take phone calls during the day) and ask where the bouquets are at

and I will never forget her response –

“when I went to the wholesaler yesterday, the roses that the client wanted didn’t look right so I just substituted individual calla lilies instead.”

I was floored and the bride is almost in tears.

Communication was rough all along with this vendor, but for her to make the call to just change the order, without prior knowledge or agreement of the client was the straw that broke the camel’s back.

While I took up this huge mistake with the vendor I was driving to the local Trader Joe’s (this was a destination wedding) picked up some gorgeous white roses, created beautiful hand tied bouquets and my couple walked down the aisle on time (this is the main reason I highly recommend you hire a wedding coordinator by the way).

So there is a happy ending and a moral to the story.

Throughout the whole process this vendor was difficult to talk to, she could only meet on certain days, at certain times and would only communicate through text. She would not return phone calls, would not confirm details and was very unprofessional. She was a weekend warrior and didn’t take the commitment she made to clients, that paid her, very seriously. While not all part-time vendors are this egregious when it comes to taking care of clients, it does happen more often than not.

In the end my team was able to save the day, maintain the timeline and stave off tears and stress, but we shouldn’t have had to.

When choosing your vendors, don’t be afraid to ask the question – “Do you do this full time?” and if the answer is no find out what limits their job will place on their ability to do their job properly.

1. Limited availability

Part-time vendors usually can only meet when they are not working or do not have other life commitments. While all vendors will have limits to their availability most full time vendors will have ample options during the day and at night, during the week and on weekends.

2. Unable or unwilling to utilize all forms of communication

Part-time vendors usually cannot take personal phone calls while they are working their “real” job. They may also be limited as to when they can check and respond to emails and text messages. Full-time vendors can answer their phones whenever they are not with another client or working with another client and have fewer limitations as to when they can respond to email and text.

3. Unprofessional business approach

Part-time vendors have a tendency to skip the necessary items to running a business – business licenses, insurance, contracts, back up plans and staff. Full-time vendors know that they are holding your dreams in their hands and they want to ensure that you have every confidence in them and their business.

While my story had a mostly happy ending, the vendor never apologized for the stress and drama she caused. She didn't willingly refund any money. She didn't care and that is probably the hardest lesson that clients that hire part-time vendors may have to learn - some of them just don't care about their clients.

Full disclosure and reality check - I have worked with loads of "part-time" vendors, but you would never know that they were running their business part-time. They are fabulous!! At the beginning of my journey I was a "part-time" vendor, but none of my clients knew it. It has a lot to do with you as a person, how well you can handle multiple tasks and how you structure your business. I won't say that you have to steer clear of "part-time" vendors, but do your due diligence and understand exactly what you will be signing up for. 

Happy Wedding Planning!

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Real Wedding - Angie & Alex's Wedding Candy Buffet - Carefree Resort & Conference Center - Carefree, Arizona

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Angie & Alex fell in love in the west and they wanted the feeling of the original wild west to be an accent in their wedding. This is the first time we have ever been asked to create a western themed candy buffet and I think we nailed it!

At first glance there isn't much to this candy buffet, but you have to look at the details and know their story. Check out the silver star (and there are more on the back side of the mason jar treat container tags), this represents Alex's love of the Dallas Cowboys. Look close and find the antlers and shotgun shells - they represent the couple's love of the outdoors and their mutual hobby of hunting. Straw bales, lassos and fun bunting tie the western theme together. Notice the artwork in the background, a gorgeous piece hanging in the historic opera room at the Carefree Resort and Conference Center. 

Guests to this mid day wedding were treated to hard candy sticks, yogurt pretzels. licorice, swirl lollipops, dark and milk chocolate Hershey's kisses and milk chocolates in pink. Guest treat containers were mason jars with custom tags designed by Sweet I Do's.

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Real Wedding - Jessica & Josh - Dream Manor Inn - Globe, Arizona

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Theme weddings can be so much fun when the wedding isn't ALL about the theme. Jessica & Josh nailed the Super Mario Bros. theme they wanted for their wedding. It helps that they are a super cute couple, they picked an amazing little venue and a great team of vendors to pull their vision together. Add video games into the reception and you have a winning themed wedding!

Jessica & Josh met in graduate school in Chicago and got engaged over pizza! Four and a half years later and they tied the knot at the beautiful Dream Manor Inn in Globe, Arizona. It wouldn't have been their wedding if it didn't include their sweet puppy Meeko, a raspberry pi playing all their favorite classic SNES video games and tons of small details showcasing their mutual love of Super Mario Bros.

Guests drove into picturesque Globe and up the mountain to the Dream Manor Inn. There they joined Jessica, Josh and their wedding party for an outdoor ceremony that included Meeko and a ring bearer carrying the rings on a mushroom shaped pillow. After the sunset ceremony, guests enjoyed appetizers and drinks on the patio while the amazing Summer Montoya with Summer Montoya Photography worked her magic and took some fabulous pictures of the couple and their wedding party.

Amazing details created by Jessica & Josh and aided by gorgeous florals created by Tony Medlock with PJ's Flowers & Events as well as a music play list that included tons of video game theme songs completed their vision of a Super Mario Bros wedding.

The fabulous vendor team - 

Venue - Dream Manor Inn

Coordinator - Sweet I Do's

Photographer - Summer Montoya Photography

Florist - PJ's Flowers & Events

DJ - Genuine Events AZ

H/MUA - Kensington Makeup

Dress - Suzanne's Bridal

Accessories - Etsy

Tux - Celebrity Tux & Tails

Chair Cover Rentals - Covergirl Chair Covers

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Real Wedding - Kim & Alex - Hassayampa Inn & Grand Highland Hotel - Prescott, Arizona

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Kim & Alex are an amazing couple that decided to roll almost all of life's big moments into one year. New jobs, a new home in another state and a destination wedding that they planned remotely with the help of Kim's mom and I are just a few of the life changes they went through. 

Having always been in love with Prescott, there was no question that they would get married in this quaint little town that has tons of areas that it feels like time has forgotten. Their ceremony was held on the roof of the historic Hassayampa Inn followed by a reception at the amazing Grand Highland Hotel. 

Their ceremony was officiated by the bride's brother Michael and I swear there wasn't a dry eye on the roof of the inn . Guests walked across the iconic city square to The Grand Highland Hotel while Laura Segall and her husband David with Laura Segall Photography took the couple and their wedding party on a whirlwind photoshoot of downtown Prescott.

At the reception guests enjoyed Moscow Mules in copper mugs provided by the couple as favors and ate delicious food provided by local caterer Enchanted Catering.

Kim's dad was trying to keep everyone in tears from both laughter and emotions during his speech (I wish I had recorded it) while the best man Ken and maid of honor Alie told secrets about the couple to the amusement of the guests.

The cold night didn't stop guests from filling the dance floor for hours and rumor has it there may have been a Smirnoff Icing during the garter toss!

Desert colors filled the reception space with hints of copper, deep purple and succulents in centerpieces created by Melinda Dunn Designs.

Dessert was an amazing cake provided by Martin Cakes and cookies and sweets by Enchanted Catering.

For more images check out Laura's blog!!!

The amazing wedding team - 

Ceremony Venue - Hassayampa Inn

Reception Venue - The Grand Highland Hotel

Coordinator/Planner - Sweet I Do's

Photographer - Laura Segall Photography

DJ - AZ Custom DJ

Florist - Melinda Dunn Designs

Caterer/Bartender - Enchanted Catering

Cake - Martin Cakes

Rentals - Verve Events

H/MUA - Rachel Leigh LLC

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Real Wedding - Arica & Phillip's Wedding Candy Buffet - 12 West Main - Mesa, Arizona

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Arica and Preston braved the heat of an Arizona summer and got married a a super cute little venue called 12 West Main, a contemporary industrial feeling venue tucked away in downtown Mesa.

Their candy buffet was full of elegant black, white and red candies and included such fun favorites as red and black licorice, milk chocolates gems, Hershey's kisses, LifeSaver Pepp-o-Mints, yogurt pretzels and our favorite hand dipped white chocolate Oreo's. 

Guests took their treats home in black Chinese take out boxes with a custom red bracket label designed by Sweet I Do's.

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Real Wedding - Marissa & Preston - Los Abrigados Resort and Spa - Sedona, Arizona

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Marissa and Preston had been friends since childhood, growing up together almost like family. They dated, decided it wasn't in the cards and they moved on. When they were younger, they never imagined they would get married, until that fateful day when Preston quit his job and showed up on Marissa's doorstep. They've been inseparable since and on a gorgeous day in May, they said their "I do's" in front of their closest family members and friends.

They both always wanted an outdoor wedding and Sedona was the perfect spot to combine their love of gorgeous scenery and a semi-destination wedding that their family could attend easily (and get out of the Phoenix heat). With many amazing venues to choose from in Sedona, Marissa and Preston ultimately chose the fabulous Los Abrigados Resort and Spa. 

Even though the wind was a little fierce, we had a creekside wedding ceremony and reception that was everything they dreamed of and more. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by the on-site chef for the resort and then danced the night away with music provided by Brad with All Pro DJ. Marissa and Preston arranged to have a scrumptious dessert and popcorn bar provided by Sweet I Do's and super cute photo booth pictures provided by ETC. Entertainment.

Marissa's sister missed her senior prom to watch her big sis get married, so we had a little fun crowning her prom queen at the wedding and Marissa gave her a sweet Pandora charm to commemorate the night.

We may or may not have had a little fun with some sparklers at some point during the night (shh! don't tell Los Abrigados).

The fabulous vendor team - 

Venue - Los Abrigados Resort & Spa

Coordinator - Sweet I Do's

Photographer - Francis Cecilia Photography

Caterer/Bar Staff - Los Abrigados Resort & Spa

DJ - All Pro DJ

Florist - Evening Star Custom Designs

Dessert/Popcorn Buffet - Sweet I Do's

Photo Booth - ETC. Entertainment

Dress - David's Bridal

Tux - Men's Warehouse

Invitations - Zazzle

 

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Real Wedding – Isabel & Brian - Wedgewood Weddings Palm Valley Litchfield Park, Arizona

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Isabel and Brian wanted a cute, relaxed wedding that allowed them to celebrate with their families and friends but didn’t want to spend all of their free time searching for wedding professionals and touring venues. By looking at the semi-inclusive wedding venues in the valley, they found exactly what they were looking for at the Wedgewood Weddings Palm Valley.

Married at sunset on a gorgeous Friday evening by amazing officiant Montana Meadows with Bird of Paradise Weddings, Isabel and Brian said “I do” in front of their guests. Cocktail hour followed with non-traditional cocktail eats of chips and salsa and house made guacamole. While guests were munching the yummy food, Isabel and Brian were getting some amazing couples portraits taken by the fabulous duo of Johnny and Taylor with Studio 616.

Lovers of all Mexican foods, Isabel and Brian chose to go with Mexican food over the traditional wedding fare. Guests enjoyed dinner prepared by the in-house chef for Wedgewood who prepared such delectable treats as beef and chicken fajitas.

One of their super cute flower girls happened to celebrate her birthday on their wedding day, and ever the gracious duo, Isabel and Brian gifted her with a special ice cream birthday cake while all the guests sang “Happy Birthday”! Presents and fun in the photo booth provided by AZ Perfect Pix may or may not have followed.

DJ Damien (one of Wedgewood’s preferred vendors) kept everyone dancing until the very end of the night!

 

The amazing wedding professionals –

Venue – Wedgewood Weddings Palm Valley

Photographer – Studio 616

Coordinator/Planner – Sweet I Do’s

Officiant – Bird of Paradise Weddings

DJ – DJ Damien

Personal and Arch Flowers – PJ’s Flowers & Events

Reception Flowers – Blooming Bouquets

Cake – Pixy Cakes

Photo booth – AZ Perfect Pix

H/MUA – Bobsie Twins

Suit – Celebrity Tux & Tails

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Real Bridal Shower - Sweet Shabby Chic Bridal Shower Candy Buffet Queen Creek, Arizona

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When a fellow industry professional asks you to design an amazing candy buffet for her best friends bridal shower, you say "Yes!!! I can't wait!". 

Kaitlin, Events and Catering Manager for the amazing San Tan Brewery asked us to create a shabby chic candy buffet for her best friends bridal shower to be held on a gorgeous day in May. She wanted some fabulous flowers, loads of details and of course delicious candy!

Guests of the shower enjoyed yogurt covered pretzels (one of our favs), cherry rock candy strings (for a little bit of bling), sixlets and milk chocolate gems in the showers color scheme of silver and pink. Add amazing jelly jars with custom tags as the treat container for guests to take home and a gorgeous vintage desk as the display table and, the result, as you can see, one fabulous candy buffet!