Wedding Network USA - April 2010 by Cherie Ronning

Business Expertise Education Networking Has your business BEEN growing? We can help!

Business

Why Write a Business Plan? 24 The PR of 2010 is Social Media 26 AdWords | AdSense 28

Suggested Reading

â&#x20AC;?How to Be a Fierce Competitor: What Winning Companies and Great Managers Do in Tough Timesâ&#x20AC;? by Jeffrey J. Fox 40

Board Member and Member Spotlight Amy Prutch 4 | Roger Moore 16 | Sheena Kalso 17

Wedding Network USA emagazine | Volume 1, Number 3 | March 2010

ADVISORY BOARD Chérie Ronning President Owner, Uncommon Invites

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Jennifer Taylor Advisory Board Member National Chapter Director National Member Benefits Chair Owner, Taylor’d Events By Jennifer

Brian Dale Advisory Board Member National Ethics Chair Owner, Wave Link Music, Inc.

Amy Prutch Advisory Board Member Owner, AJ’s Studio

Linda Barclay Advisory Board Member National Finance Chair Owner, Barclay Event Rentals

Peter Barnett Advisory Board Member National Membership Chair Owner/Chef, Premiere Catering

Molli Barss Advisory Board Member National P/R & Marketing Co-Chair Owner, Soiree Special Event Planning

Don Boshears Advisory Board Member National P/R & Marketing Co-Chair Private Events Director, Columbia Tower Club

Donna Hoff Advisory Board Member National Web Marketing Chair Owner, The Wedding Genies

Eric Newland Advisory Board Member National Education Chair Owner, Hybrid Moon Videography

Gayle O’Donnell Advisory Board Member National Communications Chair Owner, All About Weddings and Celebrations

Musings

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Amy Prutch, AJ’s Studio

MEMBER BENEFITS

HAPPENINGS Seattle Washington Meeting Portland, Oregon Meeting Southwest Washington Meeting

6 10 14

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Roger Moore, Moore Creative Weddings Sheena Kalso, Totally Tabletop and The Invisible Hostess

16 17

Weddings Portland Style Bride Choice Awards

18 19

NEARLYWED RADIO

“The One” Wedding and Events Showcase

INDUSTRY INSIGHT Choosing A Wedding Officiant Sixth Annual Emerald City Applause Awards Seventh Annual CONVENTION

22 23 23

BUSINESS WEDDING NETWORK USA NEWS Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities Calendar of Events Suggested Reading Code of Ethics Founding Members

24-37 38 39 40 41 BC

CONTACT: Wedding Network USA | 1-888-509-6872 Info@WeddingNetworkUSA.com | www.WeddingNetworkUSA.com This publication is published and designed by Shiela Strubel, Strubel Studios, Snapshot eMagazine. © 2009-2010

MUSINGS

Chérie Ronning President

In February we were fortunate to have Sasha Souza come to Portland and Seattle to talk about her business and promote her new book. Her tour was sponsored by ISES around the US . In Seattle , WNUSA jointly sponsored the meeting. I met with Sasha at the Columbia Tower Club in the afternoon. Jennifer Taylor, our WNUSA Founding President and Greg Lowder, Founding Member had lunch with Sasha and then Greg interviewed her for the “Nearlywed Radio”. After the interview we all had a chance to visit and talk about the industry as a whole and where it is headed. That night Sasha shared her ideas and dreams for her business. Some of her comments were so on target to me and my way of thinking and I wanted to share them with you if you were not able to attend, and remind you of them even if you were there at one of the meetings. Treat your Vendors with respect! Sasha stated very clearly that without fabulous Vendors none of our weddings would take place. No matter what the circumstances, she always makes sure her Vendors are paid, fed at the event and kept totally in the loop as to their part of the event. You can’t build a perfect team if everyone does not feel part of the team! You are your only competition! For the past 6 years I have been harping on the fact that we are all peers in the industry. I hollered out a big THANK YOU when she made this comment. Look at your own work and make it better every time you put it out there in the world. It will come back to you. Quit comparing yourself to others, challenge your-

self to learn something new and interesting about your part of the industry as well as what the other team players are doing. Be a Team Player! You will be a better team player if you know what it takes for each team member to do their job. Locally we have discussed at length creating the “one clock” timeline, so that we are all serving the client’s needs, not our own personal needs. This idea was inspired by Andy Ebon, last year at Wedding MBA. Finally, take credit for your own work – not someone else’s! This is already in the WNUSA Code of Ethics. Of course we all use ideas we have seen elsewhere, and sharing of ideas is perfect. But don’t tell your client or the team players that it came to you out of the blue. Tell them “I saw something like this idea on a TV show, in a Bridal magazine article or at a local wedding show.” Then change it up to suit your client and make it your own idea. It is easy to look at people in the national limelight who you would like to emulate and think - oh, I can never be “Sasha Souza” or “Preston Bailey”, but you can be “Yourself”. Create your niche in the wedding industry, share your ideas with others, take care of your Vendors, be a team player and surely success will follow. Take time to look in the mirror and tell your “boss” how terrific you are, after all – you are your only competition!

Best, Chérie

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Amy Prutch Owner, AJ’s Studio Player, The Wedding Lounge

Member Professional Photographers of America, Professional Photographers of Oregon, Digital Wedding Forum My Vision - To promote responsible and respectful business practices of all members of the wedding industry for their clients and towards each other. To elevate the wedding industry in customer service, and promote respect between vendors. My goal - My goal is to enable all vendors of a wedding to understand that our ultimate goal is to serve the client, and to do so, it takes respect for each other jobs and a team effort. The Wedding Lounge - I’m thrilled to be part of a collaboration of professionals with a common purpose in mind - to provide the couple with a relaxing and fun alternative to researching vendors and options for their weddings. The Lounge Players are a group of experienced professionals with the best interests of the client in mind, which completely coincides with my goals for Wedding Network USA. I received my formal photography training while pursuing a Journalism/Mass Communications major at the University of Utah. I subsequently earned a second degree in Special Education and again never considered a career in photography or the wedding industry until she literally married into the wedding photography business.

Member Benefits What types of Member Benefits would you and your company like to see offered by your association? My husband JP and I have owned and operated AJ’s Studio for 17 years, during which time the have conducted workshops on studio workflow throughout the Northwest, spoken at the Professional Photographers of Oregon Convention, and participated in international Mentoring programs through the Digital Wedding Forum.

Do you need suggested resources for insurance, accounting etc. or a new company to purchase promotional marketing pieces from?

In 2006, after 14 years, I said goodbye to the teaching profession and joined the studio full time. When not in the studio I happily live the crazy life of a suburban wife and mother of two boys.

Do you have some great resources to share? Please email us with your thoughts, resources, requests and let us see what we can do to make them a reality.

Owner, AJ’s Studio Player, The Wedding Lounge

Wedding Network USA info@weddingnetworkusa.com

Amy Prutch

HAPPENINGS

SEATTLE February, 2010

Seattle, Washington

Some sources she has found useful The Seattle WNUSA February meeting was a joint venture with the Seattle Chapter of I.S.E.S. the creation of inspiration boards: (International Special Event Society), held Pre-made boards: at the The Ruins. We were honored to have Snippet & Ink award-winning wedding planner, Sasha Souza, Project Wedding as the evening’s speaker. Wedding by Color Perfect Palette Sasha discussed “Emerging Trends in Wedding Style Me Pretty and Event Décor.” She is currently touring DIY boards: ISES chapters throughout the country promoting Two Bright Lights her new book, “Signature Sasha: Magnificent Mosaic Maker Weddings by Design” and speaking about Polyvore the trends she shared with us that evening. Flickr Prior to and following her presentation she Google Images graciously spent time chatting with attendees, Microsoft Publisher Software as well as signing copies of her wonderful photo-filled book.

Sasha’s tips for wedding professionals:

Sasha is a huge proponent of making and working with inspiration boards when beginning work with her clients. They are extremely helpful tools in getting couples to focus and make their wedding something that reflects their likes and style.

Define who you are: What do you want to be known for? Fun weddings, colorful weddings, over the top weddings, DIY weddings? Create a niche that sets you apart. Give it up: Don’t hoard your secrets, Share!

Vendors: Choose wisely and trust them implicitly. Work only with vendors you trust. Avoid hiring any vendors you have to “babysit.” Your job is to create a perfect team for every couple you work for. Huge thank yous go out to Eli Darland of Rare Form Limousine for the transportation provided for Ms. Souza during her time in Seattle, The Ruins for hosting this event at their beautiful venue and the food we all enjoyed during the event, and to Dani Weiss of Dani Weiss Photography for photographing the evening’s festivities. Sasha Souza will return to Seattle for an all day intensive Masterclass called Souzapalooza at Pravda Studios June 29, 2010. Click HERE for details.

HAPPENINGS

PORTLAND March 9, 2010

Portland, Oregon

On Tuesday March 9, 2010, the members of WNUSA were treated to a one of a kind meeting at Widmer Brothers Brewery. It was a funpacked evening full of food, education, entertainment, and, of course, beer! As guests arrived at the banquet space, they were checked-in by Eric Holen from Holland Studios, Eric Newland from Hybrid Moon, and Eric Wright from All Wright Music, all wearing coordinating red ties. During cocktail hour, Widmer’s staff passed trays of Widmer Hefeweizen paired with Mango Salsa Crustade, Shrimp Canapés, and Roasted Tomato Bruschetta. In the background guests enjoyed video from Ambient Sky Couture Wedding Films. Around 7:00pm, members were asked to be seated then were introduced to Rob Widmer, one of the famous Widmer brothers. Rob spoke to the group about what a great city Portland is and why it is such a perfect place for breweries and beer lovers alike. When he was finished, Rob turned the floor over to Kelly Hagerman, Widmer’s event coordinator. Kelly talked to us about the banquet space and all of the great things it has to offer. She then introduced our speaker for the evening, Doug Rehberg, one of the brew masters at Widmer.

Throughout the evening, members enjoyed an amazing four-course meal that Widmer refers to as their “brewer’s dinner.” Each course was paired with one of Widmer’s fabulous beer selections and each pairing was explained in detail by Doug. As dessert was being served, guests enjoyed wonderful presentations by Ambient Sky Couture Wedding Films and AJ’s Studios. To close the evening, Cindy Rosen, our regional director, spoke to the group about future WNUSA meetings and their exciting locations. As guests were getting ready to leave they were asked to remove the bottle tops from their menu cards (which were provided by Uncommon Invites) to reveal a number. The guest with the winning number won a “growler” full of beer from Widmer Brothers Brewery. Indelisa Montoro from Belle Jour Floral was the lucky winner - congratulations! Overall, the evening was amazing! Kelly Hagerman and her team were incredible; I could not have asked for a better person to work with. Thanks again to our outstanding vendors: Widmer Brothers Brewing, Ambient Sky Couture Wedding Films, AJ Studios, Uncommon Invites, Hybrid Moon, Holland Studios, and All Wright Music. It was definitely an evening to remember! Heather Halstead, Sorella Events

HAPPENINGS

SW WASHINGTON March 16, 2010

Vancouver, Washington

On Tuesday, March 16, 2010, the Southwest Washington chapter of WNUSA where welcomed by the vibrant hospitality of Jenny Duce , Christina Kuntz, and Stacy Dawden of Camas Meadows Golf Course in Camas WA. As members gathered, the view and warm weather drew everyone outdoors. Standing on the large terrace that overlooks Camas Meadows, guests took in the facilities newest addition, a magnificent ceremony gazebo nestled on a lush emerald lawn that can accommodate 250 guests. Adjacent to the ceremony site and up a slight knoll, stands a sparkling white three-season reception tent. Memorable photographic opportunities abound as the meadows feature a beautiful array of Camas Lillies, as well as the largest know patch of Bradshaw’s Lomatium, a rare flower found in only three locations in North America. Attractively priced and staffed by an experienced sales team, the expanded Camas Meadow affords a venue unlike any other in SWWA. 14

With each meeting the SWWA chapter continues to build on the foundation of individual goal achievement established in the January meeting. To this end Shiela Strubel of Strubel Studios and WeBuildYourSocialMedia.com spoke on branding and identity. She also spoke about the importance of Social Media and displayed visual images of consistency in branding such as the Vitamin Water campaign. She then worked with individual members to evaluate what their branding was saying to potential clients. The discussion became a lively and humorous forum as members shared the different mediums in which their own message was being communicated. Business cards became the focus as members utilized the group to asses the actual message, or lack there of, their cards communicated. Cherie Ronning of Uncommon Invites displayed one of her most effective marketing tools, a memorable, informative, business card. What does your business card really say about your company? Don Richardson of Digital Popcorn (our chapter’s “All Things Internet Guru”), expanded the talk into the area of blogging. He focused on why businesses choose to blog. He also answered the question “How, with so many blogs out there do I get people interested in my business’ blog?”

If you are a SWWA business focused in the wedding industry and are interested in learning more about emerging trends and resources, we invite you to join us at our next meeting Tuesday, April 19th from 9:00am – 10:30am. The meeting will be hosted by Black Swan Events at The Hamilton Hall on Officer’s Row in Vancouver WA. A delightful breakfast will be catered by the The Grant House. This is a networking meeting, bring your business cards and be prepared to talk about your business to the group. WNUSA would like to thank April Williams of April William’s Photography who photographed this months meeting.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Portland, Oregon

Roger Moore Moore Creative Weddings

I have been married to the same person for forty years. Judy has always been very supportive of my wedding business. We have two married daughters, two great son-in-laws and we have four wonderful grandchildren. I am a wedding officiant who has been performing weddings as a business since 1980, so I do have a lot of experience. I enjoy working with couples to develop a ceremony that reflects their ideas. I also am willing to make the bride and groom the focus of the ceremony by encouraging the couples to semi face the audience. Also, I like to work as a team member of all the vendors who are making the day of the bride and groom special. I have worked with Chérie Ronning for many years and really appreciate her leadership and when she formed the Wedding Network USA, I was eager to join the group because of the focus on the entire wedding business rather than just one segment of the industry. The networking has been extremely rewarding. The training sessions have been very helpful.

Roger Moore,

Wedding Officiant , Moore Creative Wedding Winner Bridal’s Choice Award 2010 Wedding Wire

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Seattle, Washington

Sheena Kalso Totally Tabletops & The Invisble Hostess

Sheena Kalso founded two niche event businesses in Seattle, The Invisible Hostess in 2006 and Totally Tabletops Party Rentals in 2007. She got her start in the event industry working for Seattle Magazine’s Lifestyle and Entertaining expert, Kelley Moore, assisting in event planning under her then company, Red Letter Day. She then coordinated member events for the Washington Athletic Club, facing the challenge of entertaining the same crowd, in the same space while trying to make each event feel fresh and unique. Learning the demands of special events and business ownership from Kelley and the WAC, Sheena was inspired to create a business that met a unique need of Seattle’s party throwing experts. Starting with the home entertainer, The Invisible Hostess was created to provide party assistance for the client, allowing him or her to

enjoy his or her guests and not be burdened with the actual work of the party.

WNUSA is the first industry organization I joined, and for a number of reasons. While my industry friends know me By 2008, business had tripled because of Totally Tabletops, and expanded from home I wanted a wedding focused party throwers to the bridal platform to educate my peers market where she offers Day of about The Invisible Hostess and Wedding coordination Services how this business’ services can as well as reception/party staff- be a huge asset for their clients. ing for those larger events. All the while Sheena managed to Second, as a young business also launch Totally Tabletops owner, I really crave the eduParty Rentals which offers high cational opportunities WNUSA style, boutique quality dinnerhas to offer. I wasn’t a business ware for rent. major in college, so I appreciate information on marketing, The 2010 wedding season is goal setting and ways to inproving to be her busiest year crease my profits. yet, with many brides using nonconventional catering methods Lastly, WNUSA membership and unique venues that require rates are affordable which is apsome party maintenance and pealing when other groups are assistance. Bartending service is priced out of my comfort zone. the newest addition to the Hostess team, allowing her clients to Oh, and let’s not forget the truly experience one stop shop- great people! This is a fantastic ping when looking for party and membership and I’m happy to wedding staff. be a founding member!

Do something that your competitors are not doing.

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE

Contact us today to join this cooperative marketing offer. Brand an image for your business with Television combined with Online Advertisement. Advertising regularly in the KOIN Local Showcase and on Weddings Portland Style: H Sets you apart from all other vendors in your category. H Allows you to appropriately communicate what is unique about your business. H Puts a face behind the name adding credibility and trust to your business. H Pre-qualifies your clientele. H Reaches your target demographic without your physical presence. H Promotes your service or product to over 100,900 households every week! H Promotes your service or product to over 250,000 unique visitors ONLINE every month! “Weddings Portland Style” is a weekly television show on KOIN Local 6 Broadcast channel 6 that informs future brides about the latest trends and hottest venues for weddings in the Portland Metropolitan area. As Portland’s only television show focused on wedding planning for the discerning Brides-to-be. “Weddings Portland Style” allows brides to hear advice and tips from local wedding experts in the comfort of their own home! The show has been broadcasting in the Portland Metro area since 2001. “Weddings Portland Style” airs Saturdays at 9am on KOIN Local 6 and on KOINLocal6.com. Look at what current sponsors say about the show… “We know your show is the best tool to reach out to our market.” AniA Collection “Outside of referrals, TV is our main lead generator.” Best Car In Town “I get recognized as that lady from the wedding show that does invitations!” Uncommon Invites Contact Tyler Bel at 505.464.0677 or Eric Newland at 503.502.1991

Wedding Wire Winners Holland Studios

Taylorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Events by Jennifer

Moore Creative Weddings

Notes of Celebration

Pink Blossom Events

Uncommon Invites

Elements in Bloom

Abernethy Center

New and Blue

Dani Weiss Photography

NW Mobile DJ Service

Did your Company win this award as well? If so - please contact us at info@weddingnetworkusa.com, so that we can list all of the winners in our next newsletter.

NEARLYWED RADIO

Two of WNUSA’s founding members, Gayle O’Donnell and Greg Lowder, have launched an ambitious new project – a weekly radio program in Seattle, Saturdays from 11 am to Noon on KKNW 1150 AM, called “Nearlywed Radio”. It’s being billed as a show created so brides can enjoy their big day in a stress-free way. Nearlywed Radio, which had its initial broadcast on February 13, 2010, features interviews with two to three local and national wedding experts each week, along with discussions of upcoming bridal events, and also the answers to brides’ advice questions. Also featured will be contests with prizes being products and services donated by various wedding and hospitality companies. Greg, owner of Affairs to Remember DJ Entertainment, had the idea to do a radio show and contacted Gayle, owner of All About Weddings & Celebrations, last year asking if she’d be up for cohosting with him. After Greg found the station to carry the show they were off and running. As of this writing they have completed 8 shows, and have featured an interesting and varied

© Scott Eklund of Red Box Pictures array of guests. Local guests have come from many different parts of the industry, including photographers, rental companies, bridal fitness experts, officiants, wedding venues, jewelers, wedding consultants, the new Seattle Bride Magazine editor-in-chief, and a limo company.

National experts interviewed on the show so far have included Preston Bailey, Sasha Souza, and the vice-president of sales and marketing for invitation company Encore Studios, Brian Lawrence. Be sure to check out past weeks of the show by downloading podcasts at www.NearlywedRadio. com, or tune in to future shows either by listening Saturday mornings during the aforementioned broadcast time, or by downloading the podcasts. For more information about being a guest on Nearlywed Radio contact info@NearlywedRadio. com. Opportunities are available for show and contest sponsorships. For sponsorship information please contact Greg at sales@nearlywedradio.com.

“Don’t forget to catch Nearlywed Radio each week on Saturday, 11-12 on KKNW 1150 AM, or download the Podcast at www.nearlywedradio.com. Your co-hosts are WNUSA members Gayle O’Donnell and Greg Lowder. You can fan the show by searching for Nearlywed Radio’s page on Facebook.” 20

“the one” WEDDING & EVENTS SHOWCASE When you know … you just know … it’s “the one!” You know the feeling … finding the one. There are no words for it. Joy indescribable. The search is over. It is the decision; the satisfying relief in knowing that it’s finally been narrowed down to one … the one! The one date on the calendar, the one dress, the one photographer, the one venue, the one style, the one DJ, the one ring, and of course, the most important one … “your one.” Two will become ONE in your relationship and you will begin a life together built on one foundation. Whether you are planning for a wedding, planning a party, or just looking for ideas this showcase is for you. Over 25 of the best vendors in the industry are going to be under one roof ready to help you make decisions to find that ONE! Come sip, savor, mingle and meet at the urban loft space, The Sole Repair Shop. Allow a variety of vendors to treat you to complimentary services and offer special automatic discounts on packages booked that day! Don’t miss this opportunity to finally find the one and have fun while doing it!

SUNDAY ~ APRIL 18, 2010

COME JOIN US ANYTIME BETWEEN 3:00-6:00 PM DON’T FORGET TO RSVP ON THE GUEST LIST! YOUR HOSTS OF THE PARTY … Amy Vallejo, Owner

Anticipate Wedding & Event Planning amy@anticipateweddings.com 206.228.8297 Find me on Facebook, Wedding Wire.com and Martha Stewart Weddings!

Chesney Schmidt, Owner All The Flutter Wedding & Event Design info@alltheflutter.com 206.491.3098

Industry Insight Choosing A Wedding Officiant by Jacqueline Mandell, Exquisite Weddings

Choosing a Wedding Officiant takes careful thinking along with informed intuition. Love is the foundation of a wedding ceremony. Commitments exchanged are ‘the way’ of the marriage. The first criterion in choosing an officiant is: ‘personal resonance’. Is there a feeling of confidence in the person who will preside over the ceremony? Is s/he in harmony with your spirituality and ethics? 22

The second criterion is: who can ‘give voice’ to the spirit and meaning of the marriage commitments spoken before family and friends? Ceremonial words shared by an officiant have the power to magnify the vibrancy of the couple’s new life together. Resonant words have the power to ignite a ricochet of love, sending waves of joy from the bride and groom to all in attendance. A ceremony has the power to ignite the spirit of the wedding day and to inspire lives for years to come. The third criterion is: to choose an officiant who is sincere yet passionate about communicating in a meaningful way. Does the

officiant have a command of language that speaks to the heart of the wedding? Choosing the officiant that best represents the values of the bride and groom provides friends and family with a feeling of comfort. Although an officiant chosen may be previously unknown to those attending the ceremony, there is an uncanny feeling of familiarity when the officiant is in sync with the authenticity of the bride and groom.

Jacqueline Mandell Exquisite Weddings

Sixth Annual Emerald City Applause Awards Wednesday, October 20, 2010 SODO PARK Categories Include

Off-Premise Catered Event On Premise Catered Event Videography/Photography Achievement in Technical Production Use of Lighting Event Marketing Campaign Design/Décor Event Support Services Event Production Event Entertainment Concept & Execution Achievement in Logistics Fair/Festival Floral Design New Innovative Environmental Product/Technology Event Produced for a Corporation Event Produced for a Nonprofit Organization or Association Event Produced for a Social Event Best Wedding

Seventh Annual

CONVENTION September 21-23, 2010 Las Vegas Convention Center

Seminars & Exhibits Wedding Job Fair

SAVE THE DATE Register Now Wedding Network USA deadline and Early Bird Registration

Click to Download

Open to members of abc, ises, mpi, nace, and Wedding Network USA Entries due September 12, 2010 Visit www.isesseattle.com for more information!

BUSINESS Why write a business plan? by Michelle Loretta, Sage Wedding Pros We all know the urban legend of that business that has been around for 20+ years and has never written a business plan. Well, I’m here to tell you that anyone who says they’ve been around for that long and never wrote a business plan is either an anomaly or is not being completely honest. A business plan is the one true competitive advantage of the businesses that “make it” over the ones that don’t. Unfortunately, many people think that they can get by as an “anomaly” – the one business that succeeds without a plan. Anyone great in this industry has a plan. Vera Wang? Check. Preston Bailey? Check. Martha Stewart? Check. Ever make a recipe and leave out an ingredient? Being a business owner can be challenging. We are managing 29,049 ingredients which all go into making our perfect business pie. The problem is that we often leave some important ingredients behind. These are the items that we don’t always have in stock or may be items that we aren’t good at producing. We leave out some really important things. And, our pie doesn’t quite hold up.

Sage Wedding Pros is dedicated to creating sustainable businesses in the wedding industry. Committed to education, information, and inspiration. Devoted to building camaraderie and cohesion within the wedding profession. Find more business education, visit www.sageweddingpros.com

If we are designers, we are good at visual aspects, so we put all of our energy into our website design. Our logo is top-notch. But, we might not be good at sales forecasting, so we just don’t do it. That’s akin to leaving apples out of your apple pie. BLEH. I’m not a very good cook so it’s a bit ironic that I’m using cooking as an analogy. But, part of the reason I’m a bad cook is because I’m generally not following the directions, getting impatient, and leaving something out. There are no shortcuts in business. Write a business plan, reexamine it every year for how you can improve upon the plan, and use it as your recipe.

A business plan is a recipe for success … A business plan covers every aspect of business. It asks you to make a plan for how you are going to market and promote yourself. It requires that you set sales targets and expense budgets. It makes you look at your operations and define your systems. It is an all-encompassing examination of your business.

for coffee and individually hash out your plans. Take a class. Read a book. Write it in 2 pages or 50 pages. Do what works for you. But, make sure you create a recipe for success.

Many people think that writing a plan is a daunting task. It doesn’t have to be. Spend 1 hour a week on it. Find a partner to meet you

Reprinted with permission from Sage Wedding Pros

Sage Wedding Pros is … … dedicated to creating sustainable businesses in the wedding industry. … committed to education, information, and inspiration. … devoted to building camaraderie and cohesion within the wedding profession. Please join Sage Wedding Pros for The Simple Plan, an easy-peasy approach to business planning: July 12-13 in Seattle and July 19-20 in Portland. Click Here for more information.

BUSINESS The PR of 2010 is Social Media by Shiela Strubel, WeBuildYourSocialMedia.com We are in a people-driven economy; people do business with people, not companies. When you’re more open, transparent, and available to your public, then your prospects become customers, repeat customers, and raving fans. You see it every day in your business: people are choosing to work with people they are “connected” to. So, how well are you serving your market niche? Social media represents a HUGE economic shift in our culture and in how we do business. Why do any of us NEED Social Media? Why it’s Business 101: Direct contact with customers (and prospects) who were previously unreachable. This means greater exposure, improved customer satisfaction, and increased sales – all without costly advertisements. The strippeddown definition of Marketing is Advertising and PR. I’ve always defined “advertising” as you selling yourself and “PR” as others selling you via testimonials. The online “social” world, such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube, is all about PR. And, isn’t the BEST customer a referred customer? When you say, “I’m the best,” rarely are you believed. When others say, “S(he) is the best,” that’s when me-and-every-potentialcustomer want your business. Social media is THE best marketing tool for your business, especially because the wedding industry thrives on visual, audio, 26

Want to rule your industry within your community? Follow a few steps on Facebook:

and testimonies. Over 101 million Americans over age 18 spend at least 45 minutes a day on this #1 social network called Facebook. LinkedIn is the #1 business social network with 58 million active global users. Just think: Since half of all small businesses say the best perk of social media is new prospects, then you need to build a powerful presence on social networks. You’re probably thinking: I want more business, but how do I “do” social media and where do I start? Our Social Media Agency positions your business to dominate – period. As the Creative Art Director, I know first-hand that we create custom graphics to position you as the trust worthy Expert of your field and teach you HOW to grow your business with skills-based coaching. Go to www.WeBuildYourSocialMedia.com and sign up for our complimentary, 30-minute consultation (referred by Shiela Strubel). Social media is easy, you can do it, and it can be your best tool to keep and generate business.

1. Look professional by creating a custom photo sidebar. 2. Go VIRAL by bringing your web site inside Facebook with a custom welcome tab/page with video and a second custom tab/page to showcase your product or service. 3. Update your “status” daily with valuable industry tips and connect daily with your fans, friends, and public for lead generation. Now, you’re the Expert of your industry and your ideal prospects seek you out and want to be helped. 4. Create a contest (e.g., a prize for the 50th fan or give away a service to the best amateur photograph or the funniest wedding story)

Four steps to a great Facebook marketing plan: 1. Know your target market 2. Craft the right message 3. Have a professional image 4. And, always give a strong call-to-action

Shiela Strubel, Creative Art Director WeBuildYourSocialMedia.com 503-830-2511 Find me: Facebook Become a Fan Reprinted with permission from WeBuildYourSocialMedia.com © 2010 Shiela Strubel and Donna Newman ©2009 WEDDING NETWORK USA • ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

BUSINESS

AdWords

www.Google.com/AdWords by Don S Richardson, Digital Popcorn Businesses can advertise their products, goods and services online through Google AdWords. It is an online advertising method of promoting your business through the use of text or image based advertisements. You can determine where you would like the ads to appear. They can be made available throughout the Google Search Network, on other websites with related content or in Gmail.

A monthly ad spend of $150 will yield about 187 click throughs at eighty cents each. That is about 6 click throughs per day. Advertisers can set a daily budget or determine the desired “ad spend” and divide it out into the number days in an average month to come to a daily budget amount.

Quality Score

The more competitive a keyword combination is, the higher the bid price could go to achieve a higher place in the ad rankings. Another factor called “Quality Score” plays a role in determining ad placement. A higher quality score helps to achieve a better placement. A low quality score can result in paying higher cost per click to achieve the same placement position.

Goals

PPC

Commonly referred to as PPC or a pay per click type of advertising method. This is where you place an ad and pay if someone “clicks” on your ad taking them through to your website or designated landing page.

Cost

The cost of signing up for Google AdWords is very low at a mere $5.00. That is just to sign up. You pay or pre-pay for each click through to your site depending upon the daily budget and cost per click. 28

It is EXTREMELY important to have a goal defined in advance of starting a campaign. Perhaps it is to have someone fill out an online inquiry when they come to your site. By taking them to a “Thank You” page afterwards and connecting that “Thank You” page to the Google AdWords account, you can track the number of “Conversions” or successes. This can help show which ads and which keywords give you the best results.

Words of Caution

Although, the cost of signing up for an AdWords campaign is quite low at only five dollars. The cost of not knowing what to do with it can be quite expensive. A campaign of this sort can eat up dollars very fast if not managed correctly and optimized with clear goals in mind.

DigitalPopcorn.net specialized search engine optimization internet marketing strategies

AdSense

Income Potential

www.Google.com/AdSense If you have a blog or a website and allow advertising on the site consider signing up for AdSense. This may be helpful in adding to the revenue stream as a source of “passive income”. As a website or blog publisher you place code in specific locations on your site where you would like ads to appear. You can specify text only, image only or both types of ads to appear. If a visitor to your site clicks through on an ad they actually leave your site and go to the other site. You get paid a portion of what AdWords charges the advertiser for the placement of the ad.

Simply putting AdSense code on a website will not likely generate huge piles of income for most websites or blogs. The additional revenue may come in helpful though.

Monthly income varies due to a number of factors … • Number of visitors to the website • Quality of content. Excellent articles related to the main topic of the website or blog. • Ad location on the page. Often ads in the top left of a page do better; however, it may not be a good fit for every site to be in that location. Be sure to include ample white space around the ad block. • Ad configuration. When setting up the ad Content Network block, use custom colors to best match your Perhaps you have a wedding blog. The ads that site. This makes for a more natural appearance appear would be related to content of the articles rather than sticking out like a sore thumb. you are writing about. If you write an article wedding flower arrangements there might be a text ad for a wedding florist who is Test Test Test Test the configuration and placement of ads on advertising their floral designs. the website or blog. You may be surprised to find a simple color change or ad location may make a significant difference in click through rate. Monitor and test to see which works best for your specific situation.

Internet Million$

You will probably not be called to be a spokesperson for the Internet Million$ infomercial on late night television. However, you may make some additional income as a result.

DigitalPopcorn.net specialized search engine optimization internet marketing strategies © 2010 Don S Richardson | Reprinted by permission www.digitalpopcorn.net | Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/dpnews

BUSINESS

Insurance 101: I can tell you that as a licensed agent and former human resource manager, insurance is one of those words that make most people cringe. We all know we need it but, with so many variations and terms it can be a challenge to really understand it. To make matters worse there are many hybrid plans as well as variables by state, that you almost need a degree to figure it out. Worse yet I am only talking about health, add to that liability, business, auto and supplemental, the choices become overwhelming. Here is a quick list of the most common terms associated with medical insurance. Deductible: The amount you must cover for medical expenses before your insurance policy starts paying. Deductibles are usually made on an annual basis. For example, if your deductible is $500, you must pay that amount out of your own pocket each year before your insurance company will start covering any costs. Co-payment: Some insurance plans require that you pay a flat fee for covered medical services. For example, you might pay a co-payment of $5 to $25 for a doctor’s visit. More expensive procedures or specialist usually involve higher co-pays.

Co-insurance: Some insurance plans require that you pay a percentage of the cost of covered medical services (usually between 20% and 30%). For example, your insurance company might pay 80% and you pay 20% of the cost of a doctor’s visit. The amount you pay is the co-insurance. You will most commonly see this in relation to major expenses like surgery or hospitalization. Other common types of insurance: Liability Insurance - Insurance that pays and renders service on behalf of an insured for loss arising out of his responsibility, due to negligence, to others imposed by law or assumed by contract. This is mandatory in most states for business owners. Casualty Insurance – This is a type of insurance that is primarily concerned with losses caused by injuries to persons and legal liability imposed upon the insured for such injury or for damage to property of others. Robbery or forgery is commonly covered here. Employers Liability Insurance - Coverage against common law liability of an employer for accidents to employees, separate from liability imposed by a workers’ compensation law. Keyman insurance – This type of life insurance policy to protect a business in the event of the death or incapacity of key personnel. Most commonly used by owners or partners. (Sometimes referred to as small man group)

It’s that time of year again … Tax Time! by Becky Klotz, EA, LTC | Designcorr, Inc. One of the key things to consider about insurance is there is no “right” answer. We all have different needs and our insurance should reflect those needs. With a wide varieties of supplemental policies available or adding riders to your existing policies you have the ability to create a custom fit. Adding a rider to a policy will typically expand the coverage for much less than purchasing an additional policy to fit that need. This is by no means an inclusive list of all the available types of insurance, there are many choices with in each of these categories. There is hope however, I recommend finding an agent or broker that you are comfortable with to answer questions. Good agents will often help in claims situations and can prevent over or underinsuring. Please feel free to email specific questions to be answered in a future newsletter.

If you are a partnership or a corporation, your deadline has passed with your filing date of March 15th, but if you are a Schedule C filer (which goes along with your 1040), you still have until April 15th. If you are not able to make that deadline, you may be able to file an extension by going to the IRS website and printing form 4868 at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf or by talking to your tax professional. If you don’t file an extension, there are penalties involved such as; Owing interest on any tax not paid by the regular due date of your return. This is April 15, 2010, for a 2009 calendar year return even if you qualify for the 2-month extension because you were out of the country. The interest runs until you pay the tax. You will also pay a late payment penalty. The late payment penalty is usually ½ of 1% of any tax (other than estimated tax) not paid by the regular due date. It is charged for each month or part of a month the tax is unpaid. The maximum penalty is 25%. If you have to make estimated payments for Federal, State and Self Employment taxes, the following dates are when they are due. (Federal and State – Oregon follows these dates as well) First: 04/15/2010, Second: 06/15/2010, Third: 09/15/2010, and Fourth (last) 01/18/2011. In the state of Washington, if you are required to file a return monthly, you must do it by the 25th day of the month. Quarterly filers, the last day of the month following the reporting period and annual filers, by January 31st. Don’t feel alone in this! Tax time can be very confusing for business owners. Contact the IRS with any questions or your local tax consultant.

Becky Klotz, EA, LTC Designcorr, Inc. PO Box 1885, Clackamas, OR 97015-1885 503-655-4775 | designcorr@comcast.net

BUSINESS Branding and Identity by Shiela Strubel, Strubel Studios A brand is a name, sign, symbol, slogan or anything that is used to identify and distinguish a specific product, service, or business.

Brand = Company Message + User Experience Company Message: Essence or personality of a business, its traits and values. A good exercise is to pretend that your business is actually a person. What would it wear? Where would it vacation? What sport would it play? Answer these questions and you’ll have a better idea of what image your brand is reflecting.

User Experience: Actual experience your customer has with your business. Was your receptionist rude to potential clients? Did your delivery arrive on time? Were callers holding for five minutes? All these components directly affect people’s perception of your company’s brand.

Elements of Brand Marketing Target Market Research: Collecting information on prospect needs and preferences. Features and Benefits: Identify the features and benefits that your target prospects are interested in and which will move them to purchase. Brand Presentation: Business Cards, Marketing Materials, Web Site, Social Media Brand Association: Create marketing materials that make your product or service memorable, fun and/or useful. 32

Brand Management: Four Elements of Brand Equity 1) Brand Loyalty What is Brand Loyalty? A client’s commitment to repurchase or continue using the brand. This can be demonstrated by repeated buying of a product or service or other positive behaviors such as word of mouth advocacy. It reflects how likely a client will switch to another brand, especially when that brand makes a change, either in price or in product features. Enhance Brand Loyalty? Treat your clients right and Stay close to your client. Measure/manage client satisfaction. Create switching costs.Ex: airline frequent-flyer miles; consumers find it important that an airline provides this service and are willing to actually pay more if it means they will get points towards their next flight. Provide Extras: loyalty, reward programs, referral programs.

2) Brand Awareness What is Brand Awareness? The ability of a potential buyer to recognize or recall that a brand is a member of a certain product category. It measures consumers’ knowledge of a brand’s existence. Who knows about you? Brand Awareness Ladder Top of Mind - Repetition, Repetition, Repetition, Brand Recall - Is it memorable? Have you heard of Nike? Yes. Brand Recognition - Is your logo & slogan/tagline associated with your name? Nike; you recognize the swoosh and “Just do It” slogan/tagline. Unaware of Brand - They don’t know me, so I need to make them aware.

Achieve: Brand Awareness How Do You Achieve Brand Awareness? Be different, memorable Involve a slogan or jingle Symbol exposure Publicity and Event sponsorships

3) Perceived Quality What is Perceived Quality? The client’s perception of the overall quality or superiority of a product or service with respect to its intended purpose, relative to alternatives. Perceived quality is a perception by clients. What influences Perceived Quality of Product(s)? Performance, Features, Reliability, Durability, Serviceability & Fit and Finish What influences Perceived Quality of Service(s)? Appearance, Reliability, Competence, Responsiveness, Empathy The Value of Perceived Quality. Reason-to-Buy, Differentiate/Position, A Price Premium, Channel Member Interest, Brand Extensions

4) Brand Associations What is Brand Association? Anything linked in memory to a brand. McDonald’s could be linked to a character such as Ronald McDonald, a consumer segment such as kids, a feeling such as having fun, a product characteristic such as service, or a symbol such as the Golden Arches.

Types of Brand Association

Some Types of Brand Associations: Product Attributes, Customer Benefits, Relative Price, Lifestyle/ Personality, Celebrity/Person, Use/Application The Value of Brand Associations: Help Proccess/Retrieve Information Differentiate/Position Reason-to-Buy Create Positive Attitudes/Feelings Basis for Extensions

Maintaining Brand Awareness

How Do You Maintain Brand Awareness? Be consistent over time. Be consistent over elements of the marketing program. Manage disasters in order to minimize their damage

Criteria for Brand Name Selection

How do I make a Brand Name Selection? It must be easy to learn and remember. Suggest the product or service. Support a symbol or slogan. Suggest desired association without being boring or trivial. Be distinctive. Be available and protected legally.

Brand Positioning

The benefit you want them to think of. Strong Brand Positions: Disney: Family Fun Entertainment Wal-Mart: Low Prices and Good Values Fedex: Guaranteed Overnight Delivery McDonalds: Food and Fun Apple: Innovative Google: Simplicity The 4 Principles of Effective Positioning Fit: Seek to leverage strengths of existing brand position Value: Focus on the perceived benefits. Uniqueness: Go where the competitors are not. Credibility: Testimonials

Now for a little homeowork …

Write out a Brand Contract: List all the promises that you want your brand to make to clients. This list will help you implement your brand and holds you accountable for expectations. Here is Starbuck’s Brand Contract Provide the highest quality of coffee available on the market today. Offer customers a wide variety of coffee options as well as complementary food and beverage items. Have an atmosphere that is warm, friendly, homelike, and appropriate for having a conversation with a good friend or reading a book. Recognize that visiting Starbucks is as much about the experience of drinking coffee as it is about the coffee itself.

With 15 years of experience in marketing and graphic design, I have seen many great and many, many not so great brands. I consider myself as an expert and I am here to help YOU grow your business through branding and social media. Is your image memorable? Look for more on Social Media in May.

Maureen Pulicella Field Service Representative

503-351-0139 mpulicella@insphereis.com

*Benefits are offered at the sole discretion of Alliance and may vary by availability, package option, and state of residence and may be subject to change. Please refer to www.affordableservices.org for complete details. ยงCertain limitations, reductions and exclusions may apply. May not be available in all states. Not available in WA to members joining on or after 7/1/2008. Alliance IIS000181 Exp 12/10

WN USA NEWS

Monthly Meeting Sponsorship Opportunities If you would like to be featured and/or speak about your company at a monthly WNUSA dinner meeting, we have sponsorship opportunities available that allow every member an opportunity to participate.

Speaker Sponsor:

Cost: $200 – 1 per meeting Available to all members, 6 meetings/year January, March, May, July, September, November Benefits include: 8’ display table; 5 minutes of speaking time at the meeting; introduce the guest speaker; an annual listing as a Speaker Sponsor on the website and in the monthly emagazine newsletter.

Spotlight Sponsor:

Cost: $75 – 2 per meeting Available to all members, 6 meetings/year February, April, June, August, October, December Benefits include: 4’ display table; 3 minutes of speaking time at the meeting; an annual listing as a Spotlight Sponsor on the website and in the monthly emagazine newsletter.

Meeting Host: 1 per meeting

Available to meeting planners, 12 meetings/year Cost: Time / Works closely with the Regional 36

Director to execute the meeting Benefits include: 1 bistro display table at the meeting, 2 minutes of speaking time, an annual listing as a Meeting Host on the website and in the monthly emagazine newsletter.

In-Kind Sponsor: # limited by needs

Available to all members, 12 meetings/year Cost: Trade donation of floral, rentals, music, printed materials, photography etc. Benefits: 2 minutes of speaking time at the meeting; a Marketing Table as described below; an annual listing as an In-Kind Sponsor on the website and in the monthly emagazine newsletter.

Marketing Table: Cost: $25

Available to all members, 6 meetings/year February, April, June, August, October, December Benefit: 1 bistro, 4’ or ½ of a 6-8’ display table (depending on availability at the Venue), introduced at the meeting; an annual listing as a Table Sponsor on the website and in the monthly emagazine newsletter.

Monthly Meeting Venue/Catering Sponsorship Opportunities For Venus and Catering Companies we offer 4 tiers of participation to allow you choose which is the best marketing opportunity for your company, when you choose to host a WNUSA dinner meeting at your facility.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

March 2010 Note: All prices are inclusive. Tier 1:

Cost – provide venue and food for free Benefit: 1 Bistro table for display, 5 minutes of speaking time + tours of the facility during the cocktail hour; receive a full page ad in the monthly emagazine newsletter and an annual listing in the newsletter and on the website.

Tier 2:

Cost – provide venue and food for $10.00pp Benefit: 1 Bistro table for display, 3 minutes of speaking time + tours of the facility during the cocktail hour; receive a 1/2 page ad in the monthly emagazine newsletter and an annual listing in the newsletter and on the website.

Tier 3:

Cost – provide venue and food for $17.50pp Benefit: 1 bistro table for display; 2 minutes of speaking time at the meeting; receive a ¼ page ad in the monthly emagazine newsletter and an annual listing in the newsletter and on the website.

April 13, 2010 Portland Monthly Meeting Ten-01 Restaurant

April 20, 2010 SW WA Monthly Meeting The Grant House

April 28, 2010 Seattle Monthly Meeting Cedarbrook Lodge

Thanks to our Sponsors: Venue Sponsor Brasserie Montmartre

Speaker Sponsor

Tier 4:

Cost – provide venue and food for $25pp – our maximum amount that we can pay Benefit: Introduced at the meeting; listed on the website and in the emagazine newsletter as the meeting location for the month. To participate in any of the sponsorship opportunities, contact the WNUSA Office at 1.888.509.6872.

Ambient Sky

Spotlight Sponsor Hybrid Moon Video Premiere Catering

Suggested Reading Many of our Members have suggested books that they feel will be beneficial to all of us. As you think about authors who have inspired you, please take the time to send us the Author’s Name and Book Titles. If you would also care to write a short Book Review we will post that information on the website for all Members to share. Look for this section under Suggested Reading on the left tab of the website or go to: www.weddingnetworkusa.com/reading

Books To Add ”How to Be a Fierce Competitor: What Winning Companies and Great Managers Do in Tough Times” by Jeffrey J. Fox Economic downturns separate the winning companies from the struggling. And as best-selling author Jeffrey J. Fox shows, tough times also give solid companies, strong managers, and potential rainmakers the opportunity to seize market share. In this eminently readable, practical resource for business leaders and managers, Fox explains exactly how the savvy few who rise to the top stay focused and alert, get new market share, hire good recently fired talent, increase investments into customer service, speed innovation, train all customer facing people, make acquisitions, get rid of underperformers, build brand names, pay for measurable performance, and lots more.

WEDDING NETWORK USA Code Of Ethics I Agree To:

Return inquiries to current as well as potential clients and vendors in a timely manner. Show consideration for other professionals by extending the utmost level of kindness, regard and cooperation. Observe all laws and obtain all pertinent licenses and permits required by law. Provide written contracts to clients to establish an understanding of all charges, services, products and performance expectations. Honor all agreements made with clients and vendors. Use the Wedding Network USA logo for advertising and promotional purposes for my company in compliance with Wedding Network USA rules for using the logo. Add a link from my website to the Association website. Be a credit to the industry by implementing good business principles, which will protect the public against fraud and unfair practices. Safeguard all privileged information about clients in a confidential manner.

Maintain adequate and appropriate insurance coverage for all business activities to assure my company’s ability to continue to do business and honor contracts. Abide by all government regulations and laws so as to favorably represent Wedding Network USA. Strive for excellence in my field by continually improving my knowledge base and be willing to share that proficiency with other Wedding Network USA Members. Give credit where credit is due and will not plagiarize another’s work. Recognize individual boundaries of competence and be forthcoming and truthful about professional experience and qualifications. Put the client’s interest first if engaging in affiliate activities, accepting commissions or referral fees. Treat employees with esteem and fairness, advocating conditions of employment that will safeguard their rights and welfare. Note from the Executive Director: We read dozens of Code of Ethics policies from industry groups and used the best of what we felt expressed the concerns of Wedding Network USA.

FOUNDING MEMBERS 2009

Monica Newby A Grand Affaire Catering Kay Stringfellow A Pickled Heron Gallery Denise Novak AA Party Rentals Donna Hays Pauline Muccahy Abacus Event Rentals Christina Lyons Elizabeth Fowler Rachelle Webster Abernethy Center Adam Tiegs Adam’s DJ Service Greg Lowder Affairs to Remember Amy Prutch AJ’s Studio Loren Callahan Alante Photography Julie Noice Alderbrook Resort & Spa Alesia Zorn Alesia Zorn Calligraphy Gayle & Jim O’Donnell All About Weddings & Celebrations Chesney Schmidt All The Flutter Eric Wright All Wright Music Scott & Amanda Shama Ambient Sky Amy Vallejo Anticipate Wedding & Event Planning April Williams April Williams Photography Octavia Hunter Krishna Muirhead Araxa Studios John Liles Audient Events/ThinkAV Andrea Hoyt August Veils Tania Shepard Azzura Photography

Gabrielle Lennartz Black Swan Events

Don Richardson Digital Popcorn

Amy Nuttman Blush Bridal Consultation Group

Shirley Easton Dippity DooDads Chocolate Fountains

Sara Maletis Brasserie Montmartre Denise Hall Jennifer Maust Bravo! Publications Inc Nora Sheils Bridal Bliss Craig Slater Bugsie Productions, LLC Stuart Butler Butler Transportation Meghan Scheels Cakes by Design Stephanie Weishaar Camas Meadows Golf Club Katie Arnold Catering by Bo Robin VanDerveer Cedarbrook Lodge Krysta McLaughlin Charlotte’s Weddings & More Liza Ragan Choice Linens Mindy Woodard Class Act Events

BreeAnn Gale Pink Blossom Events

Heather Halstead Sorella Events

Callie Meyer Lisa Dupar Catering

Susan Crow Portland Bride & Groom Magazine

Shiela Strubel Strubel Studios Snapshot eMagazine

Monica Mayer Divine Designs

Max Mikhaylenko MAXM STUDIO

Michele Starry Lan Su Chinese Garden

Tanya Stone Elements in Bloom

Melody Davis MG Davis Events

Amy Ipina Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront

Marcy Richards Taste Chocolate/The Doll House Tea Room

Emma Smith Emma Jane Photography

Mindy Milton Mindy Milton Events

Cindy Rosen Encore Events

Craig Mitchelldyer Mitchelldyer Photography, Inc

Katherine Sealy Event Cosmetics Cheri Baber Event Floral Jacqueline Mandell Exquisite Weddings Patricia Norris Fireworks! Selena Ross Peggy Hartman Floral Dreams Kay Dietl Flowers For You Louella Scott Flowers Tommy Luke Sara Perrin Folio Photo and Design

Wendy Hosford Lindsi Leahy LillyPilly Floral Artistry

Heidi Moon Moon Mansion

Marilyn Storch Portland Wedding Planner, Inc. Amy Miller Premier Bride of OR & SW WA

Georgia Rafati Rafati’s Elegance In Catering

Heather Courtney The Manor

Alice Nafziger Dorcas Popp Glenn Howard Sue Koshiyama Multnomah Athletic Club

Eli Darland Rare Form Limousine

Candice Szarzec The Petal and the Stem

Rebecca Ellison Rebecca Ellison Photography

Petrel Chapman The Wedding Cottage

Christina Safford Muse Tatum Dwyre-Seitz Kelly Cooper Jacquelyn Renalds New and Blue Jenny Harding New Chapter Weddings

Carole Lombardi Red Star Tavern Hotel Monaco Emma & Will Darden Reversed Lens Photography

Dwayne Thomas GreenLight Creative, LLC

Nancy Tice Northwest Artist Management

Michelle DeRouen Seattle Bride Magazine

Connie Crane Crane Manor

Leialoha Kaula Hali’a Event Planning

Linda Smith Notes of Celebration

Dixie Duncan Seattle Metropolitan Bride & Groom

Mark Lopez Crave Catering

Eric Holen Roberta Cloutier Holland Studios

Emily Pollock Amanda Fischer Novelty Hill - Januik Winery

Olivia Olson Hotel Lucia

Kevin Venables NW Mobile DJ Service

Robert Gassen Humanature Photography

Stacy Lynn Crawford NY Institute of Photography

Chris Holzgraf Huntington Images

Heather Matheny Oregon Bride Magazine

Eric & Heather Newland Hybrid Moon

Robin & Erik Pierce Paparazzi Tonight

Erin Hight Jake’s Catering

Paul Rich Paul Rich Studio

Jodell Hinojosa Jo Foody Catering

Judy McManus Perfect Wedding Guide

Dani Weiss Dani Weiss Photography

Melia Soldati The Heathman Lodge

Matthew Ferris MPF Events

Linda Conklin Columbia Winery

Trisha Dirks Stephanie Simmons Crowne Plaza Hotel

Kehaulani Petersen Sean Osaki The Heathman Hotel & Bar

Roger Moore Moore Creative Weddings

Eddie Redman Robby Sortore Grand Event Rentals

Steve Cox Kevin Tallmadge Creative Ice

Lauren Barnes Garr The Grand Papery Invitations

Peter Barnett Mike Peters Matt Foreman Premiere Catering

Don Boshears Columbia Tower Club

Michelle Davenport Creative Childcare Solutions, Inc.

Jennifer Taylor Taylor’d Events by Jennifer

Linda Barclay Barclay Event Rentals

David Barss David A. Barss, Photographer

Indelisa Montoro Belle Jour Floral Design

Pam Wolle Daybreak Carriages

Kevan Inouye Kevan Inouye Private Florist

Penny Jones Penny Wise Meals & Gifts

Christine Richards Black Belt Business Solutions

Becky Klotz Design Correspondence

Amber Darrington Le Cookie Monkey

Mistie Beaudoin Peter Corvallis Productions

Lora Heil-Frone Rose City Bridal Showcase

Sean & Candice Hoyt Sean Hoyt Photo Documentary Leslie Wheatley Seattle Parties Kerry Garrow Signature Weddings & Events Kirstie Warren Simply Wed Danyelle Tinker Skamania Lodge Nelliena Moetului Snoqualmie Ridge Golf Club Molli Barss Soiree Sol Neelman Sol Neelman Photo Journalist

Sheena Kalso The Invisible Hostess

Donna Hoff The Wedding Genies Amy Richardson Tom Douglas Catering Susan Duyck UltraViolet Events Chérie & Pat Ronning Kevin Ronning Melissa Pogue Uncommon Invites Kurt Beadell Auriana Albree David Robinson Emily Crumpacker Page Winograd Eric Sandstrom Meg Goldman Chris Barrie Karen Rich Emily Michel Faith Adams Vibrant Table Catering & Events Brian Dale Jillian Cook Wave Link Music, Inc. Maureen Haley Wedding Officiant Kelly Hagerman Widmer Brothers Brewery Tshombe Brown Your Signature Coaching