FEBRUARY 7, 2020
The Press Special Edition Winter 2020
Planning for the big day R AY N A H E S S
T
o hire a wedding planner or not to hire –– that is the question.
However, most large-scale events would benefit from the expertise of an event planner. If you are trying to decide whether an event planner is right for you, here are a few things to consider ...
see Planning page 17
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Wedding Planner
FEBRUARY 7, 2020
Wedding flowers becoming larger than life
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Couples should speak with their florists about the innovative ways they can make flowers an even more awe-inspiring component of their weddings.
hile wedding trends come and go, flowers will always have a place
at the wedding table. The blooms brides and grooms choose and how they decide to display them can say a lot about the couple’s style. Many modern couples are opting for statement pieces with their flowers to rival the big and bold ideas they’re incorporating in cakes and clothing. Ed Plascencia, owner of Brentwood Florist, said that when it comes to winter and springtime weddings, large flower installations, as well as blooms popping up in unexpected places, are some of the hot trends for couples to keep their eyes on. “Couples are still interested in large statement centerpieces and floral baskets,” said Plascencia. “For right now, it’s roses and hydrangeas and as spring comes, couples are looking at tulips and daffodils.”
Floral chandeliers There’s no need to worry about seeing over table centerpieces or flowers getting in the way of photo moments. Thanks to hanging flowers and floral chandeliers, flowers are quite literally moving up in the world. Hanging floral pieces can add instant drama and make a large visual impact.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Couples are still enjoying traditional centerpieces, but are also adding floral chandeliers and curtains made of blooms for that added extra pop at their weddings. Florists can hang flowers from beams over tabletops to increase visual impact, whether as individual baskets, single stems or floral swags. Hanging floral chandeliers are dramatic but naturally expensive. Think about a large installation that forces guests to look up into a sea of greenery and flowers. The smell and the sight can be breathtaking.
Welcome wreaths Why should wreaths only be reserved for front doors and holiday decor? A welcome floral wreath can be placed by the
entryway to a chapel or reception hall with a heartfelt sentiment that shows guests how much they’re appreciated.
Fairy-tale flowers A floral curtain of hanging flowers can line a chuppah or drape the altar in beautiful blooms. Couples who would like a fairy-tale entrance also can make their debut as a couple by coming through a flower curtain at the reception. Martha Stewart Weddings says a cascade of flowers and greens can be romantic and elegant.
Dance floor blooms Who says flowers have to be overhead or on a table? With a plexiglass dance floor or one made from some other transparent material, flowers can be underfoot, creating a magical floral carpet.
Floral necklaces Brides needn’t all carry their bouquets. They can also wear ethereal and whimsical floral pieces around their necks or on their waists instead. Couples should speak with their florists about the innovative ways they can make flowers an even more awe-inspiring component of their weddings. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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Wedding Planner
FEBRUARY 7, 2020
Planning from page 15
Does someone in your family have professional event-planning experience? This is the single greatest asset a professional event planner can bring to the table –– they simply have a long list of previous experiences that help them see events in different ways and anticipate any issues that might crop up. Many clients come to us with an idea of what their wedding will look like, but as we talk to them, we realize that there are a lot of holes in their vision. These are things that they would never have caught on their own, and if they did, it would be too late. However, a professional event planner can see issues in your time lines and budgets that the average person would not catch. Their experience also comes into play if there is an issue (or worse, a disaster) at your event. They can plan for problems and be ‘on’ when those issues arise. If you do not have someone in your family who has the experience that gives them this ability, it’s definitely worth hiring a planner.
… a professional event planner can see issues in your time lines and budgets that the average person would not catch. – Rayna Hess, owner, Eventfully Yours Event Designs
Additionally, it is a large job to place in the hands of a family member when maybe they would really just prefer to be a guest.
Do you have the resources? Certainly, planning a wedding is a very time-consuming process. I think it is important to consider whether you really have the time and resources to execute it well. Just because someone can physically fit in the time to pick floral arrangements, create the menus and contact vendors does not mean it is the best use
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of their time or that each of those categories will be planned in the way that it deserves based on that person’s time limitations. Event planners dedicate time to executing these logistics and are reliable when it comes to knowing what it takes logistically to pull any event together.
The gray area ... In some cases, hiring an event planner is not a cut-and-dry situation. Perhaps there are aspects of your event where a professional planner would be very useful, but you don’t have the budget to bring someone
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in for the entire event. In this case, consider hiring a day-of coordinator. Your wedding day should be magical and perfect in every way. If you are stuck tracking down your DJ, making sure the caterer is on time or directing guests, this perfect day can become an exhausting experience. Remember that a good planner will not only save you time but can also save you money by keeping you in budget and freeing you up to do more important things, like planning your honeymoon! Reyna Hess is the owner of Eventfully Yours Event Designs. For more information, call 925- 370-1300.
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FEBRUARY 7, 2020
Factors to consider before choosing a wedding venue
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hile couples must make myriad decisions during the wedding planning process, perhaps none is more significant than
where to tie the knot. Since the wedding venue comes with such a potentially high sticker price, couples should give ample consideration to a host of factors before
Insurance Ask about the venue’s insurance policies, including the policies the venue has to protect itself. In addition, ask if the venue requires couples to have their own wedding liability insurance for protection in the event of injury, property damage or incidents related to alcohol. Couples may also want to make the investment in cancellation or postponement insurance, and some venues may even require it.
choosing where to get married. Size Until they can agree on a guest list, couples might want to delay even looking for venues. However, some couples might want to first look at some venues so they can determine just how many guests they can afford to invite. Whether they’re hosting small affairs or large parties, couples should choose venues that can comfortably accommodate all of their guests. If possible, look for venues with multiple reception areas, which might allow for some wiggle room if the guest list grows or dwindles during the planning process. Availability Some couples might have an ideal time of year or even an exact date they hope to get married. While that can help with the planning, it can also limit venue options. Some venues may be booked for a year or more in advance during peak wedding season. Those who can be more flexible regarding their wedding dates may find it easier to book their dream venues.
Couples should have fun choosing their wedding venues while recognizing that certain factors must be given ample consideration before signing any contracts. Financials It’s easy for couples to focus on the bottom line when choosing wedding venues, but it’s also important to get a complete grasp of the financials before making a selection. Ask about the amount of the initial deposit and if that deposit is refundable. In addition, ask when the deposit is due and when each subsequent payment is due until the balance is paid in full. This can make budgeting easier and planning less stressful. –– Courtesy Metro Creative
Photo courtesy Metro Creative
When planning your big day, several factors should be considered before committing to a venue.
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Photos courtesy of Discovery Bay Studios