Given that over the years you have had to deal with everything from a panic-stricken bride-to-be to the micro-managing leader of a large corporation, what have been some of the most challenging aspects of doing this job and how did you overcome them? Some of the most challenging aspects are those last minute things that just pop up despite all of the extensive planning. An example: the AV (audiovisual system) is having some hiccups, in other words: not working! For me AV is always a challenge as I'm not an expert, but I've learned so much in that area! I always have my contingency plans and prepare for the worst, but it's the “move fast, think slow” that has helped me in those challenging moments. I find as I keep moving, I can figure things out and the solutions come. Back in the '90s we'd often see disposable cameras on all the tables, then with digital advances we saw photobooths at every event - what's happening at events now that's taking advantage of current tech-trends? Photo booths are as popular as ever. I think they are here to stay as we are a smartphone/photo/selfie culture – always wanting to document our experiences. Face filters, GIFs, green screen and boomerang are some of the newer ways of engaging guests. Using hashtags and photos from a shared gallery instantly on social media is popular too. With the holidays around the corner, can you offer up some tips on how to plan a holiday party to end up with a really special event, but also keep costs down without impacting quality? I really believe that simplicity is true elegance and allows for quality to shine. Your guests will most likely remember the ambiance of your event and how they enjoyed themselves. Food and drink can capture this nicely while being beautifully displayed with simple festive greenery and florals; Mason jars filled with holly and greenery can add to your decor and is budget friendly. Adding lots of candles can make the atmosphere more inviting. A buffet is efficient and can easily be put together. It can also add to your décor – a beautifully decorated food table where your guests can mingle around. I would also think ahead by organizing a way home for your guests who have enjoyed some extra festive cheer. Adding your own photo booth can add to your entertainment and can be inexpensive. You can purchase glittery photography backdrops online for under $30. Incorporating a signature holiday cocktail is also fun. You can't go wrong with good food and drink, simple elegant décor and a good mix of festive music. After all: it's the guests that add the true sparkle to any event. Your tagline is Timeless Elegant Planning. Can you expand on this a bit? I wanted a tagline where people would associate what I do with three words. For me elegant says it all when thinking of weddings and events. Timeless – because wedding and event planning should be. And planning had to be there, as that is what I do!
“G ive t he G ift of Loc al ”
DECEMBER 2018 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 21