Day of Service - REALLY????

It's the season of weddings.  There are many brides who has chosen to plan their own weddings, but find that in order to enjoy it, they need assistance on the day of the wedding.  Thus was born the concept of "Day of Wedding Coordinators". 

What exactly does this intel and what should you expect.  First, anyone who offers to do your wedding the day of and doesn't start at least two months out, should be avoided.  The reasoning for this that no one can possibly know what agreements you have with the vendors, what you expect from the vendors or any potential problems that may crop up.  (I'm on a need to know basis and I NEED TO KNOW EVERYTHING!)  This includes any family situations that may arise like blended families or divorced parents who may need to be seated at separate ends of the reception. 

You need to be able to sit down with the coordinator and go over everything with him/her.  They should be able to discern if any mistakes have been made that can be corrected or if you have forgotten something. 

Many brides are on a fairly tight budget and think that a coordinator who charges $500 is a bargain.  They might be, but you generally get what you pay for. 

Here's what I offer for day of services:

Day of Services

(Services include time involved with organizing the below list.  Any materials needed will be the client’s responsibility

 Supply Emergency Kit

Pick up Dress and deliver to wedding site (if dress is purchased at a Denver Salon)

Timeline and Confirmation for Wedding Day sent to Vendors

Choreograph Rehearsal – if having one
 Coordination of Wedding and Reception Activities 
(Coordinator on site)
Unlimited access to coordinator for questions and guidance during remaining planning process.
Fees are determined by the location and expected expenses
 
I work closely with all vendors, and contact each one prior to the wedding day, to be sure we are all on the same track. 

After working with brides for a while, I decided that another type of package was needed.  This is the Partial Plan, which I coined about 20 years ago.  This package is perfect for the bride who wants to do her own footwork but have direction and assistance as needed. 

This is what the Partial Plan consists of.  It will give you an idea of how much more is and should be included and what you should expect from any coordinator  you hire.  Don't be afraid to ask them for a list of what services they do include in their fee. 

Consultant shall perform the following Services for Client:  PARTIAL PLANNING

 (Services include time involved with organizing the below list.  Any materials needed will be the client’s responsibility

 Supply Emergency Kit

Assist in finding Ceremony and Reception Site Location
Vendor Referrals to Include but Not Limited To:
        Officiant
        Photographer
        Videographer
        Baker
        Musicians (Ceremony and Reception)
        Florist
        Transportation
        Caterer

Accompany Client to Vendor Planning Sessions

Timeline and Confirmation for Wedding Day sent to Vendors
Choreograph Rehearsal
Pick up and Deliver Wedding Dress to Dressing Location
Coordination of Wedding and Reception Activities 
Long distance phone calls and faxing.

Copy of WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE, A Bride’s Workbook

Fees are determined by the location and expected expenses

OPTIONAL ADDITIONS

Assembly of Invitation and Mailing (Additional Charge)
Assembly of Favors (Additional Charge
Distribution of In-Room gifts (Additional Charge)
Planning and Arranging Rehearsal Dinner (I will include in this package if you need assistance)
Planning and Arranging Bridesmaid’s Luncheon (Additional Charge)

Bridesmaids and Groomsmen’s gifts

Bridal Accessories (including but not limited to)
                Favors
                Bubbles
                Guest Book and Pens
                Cake Knife and Server
                Toasting Glasses
                Garters
                Ring Pillows/Boxes
                Unity Candles

The next level is for the bride who is wanting a lot more help.  When I do a wedding, it doesn't matter which plan, it's YOUR wedding, not mine.  One of the reasons brides are hesitant to hire a coordinator is because they are worried the coordinator will "tell her what to do and plan the wedding without much input by the bride".  When interviewing a coordinator, observe how they listen to you.  Do they ask questions about you and your fiance?  Do they inquire about what you enjoy doing together - which is important to help you define the type of wedding you want.  You want your wedding to reflect your personalities.  When your guests walk into the reception, you want them to know it's your wedding and not be like the last three they attended! 

I enjoy blending heritage and personalities to bring out the best of both families.  It can be as simple as including rosemary in a bouquet to naming tables after candy bars for someone from Hershey, PA.

For additional comparison, here is what I offer for full planning: 

FULL SERVICE WEDDING COORDINATION TO INCLUDE: 

(Services include time involved with organizing the below list.  Any materials needed will be the client’s responsibility (example:  Calligraphy charges, stamps, maps, placecards, favors, gift baskets,

amenities ,etc…)

 Budget Analysis

Month to Month Timeline
Ceremony and Reception Site Location
Hotel Accommodations
Vendor Referrals to Include but Not Limited To:
       Officiant
        Photographer
       Videographer
        Baker
        Musicians (Ceremony and Reception)
        Florist
        Transportation
        Caterer
Assembly of Favors
Lighting/Sound - assisting with selection
Rental Items - assisting with selection
Appointment Setting
Participating in Planning Meetings
Design
Save the date letters, Accommodation letters (if not provided by hotel)
Taking invitation to Calligrapher, stuffing, stamping, mailing
Maps
Program Organization
Place-card Organization
Distribution of In-Room gifts
Place Restroom Amenities if Needed 
Timeline on Wedding Day
Vendor Confirmations
Pick up and Deliver Wedding Dress to Dressing Location
Rehearsal Assistance
Coordination of Rehearsal, Wedding and Reception
Long distance phone calls and faxing.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONS
Planning and Arranging Rehearsal Dinner (Additional Charge)
Planning and Arranging Bridesmaid’s Luncheon (Additional Charge)
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen’s gifts
Bridal Accessories (including but not limited to)
                Favors
                Bubbles
                Guest Book and Pens
                Cake Knife and Server
                Toasting Glasses
                Garters
                Ring Pillows/Boxes
                Unity Candles
            Candle Holders

When selecting a coordinator, feel free to use this information when interviewing.  You want to be sure you get the best service for your money.  Whether you are planning a Colorado wedding or one out of the country, I do travel to anywhere so if you'd like to visit with me about your wedding, please feel free to contact me at 303-779-0395 or 303-594-3480; www.weddingsbytanya.com or Tanya@WeddingsbyTanya.com. 

Happy Planning!!!! 

Elopement on a Sunday Morning!

I had the wonderful opportunity to perform the wedding of two very special people. They chose Daniel's Park, just outside of Denver for the special moment.

Many couples are discovering they don't have to have a large wedding but are choosing to do a very intimate ceremony, with mainly just the two of them.

Colorado is a wonderful destination for Planned Elopements as there are so many mountain areas to choose from, things to do, places to go and things to see. You can combine your wedding and honeymoon together, stay at a wonderful resort and spa or a beautiful dude ranch and still go home with money in your pocket.

Yes, I do full weddings and large destination weddings, which I love doing. Destination weddings can be here in Colorado, or I can travel to anywhere in the world to help you have the wedding of your dreams.

There's a new trend in engagements...women doing the proposing, along with presenting her man with a man-gagement ring. These are rings, that can be anything from a simple band with a stone (diamond or otherwise) to something that may reflect your man's profession. Men who have been asked, are proud and pleased to wear this symbol of their love. No, this doesn't take the place of the ladies' engagement ring, just another option to consider. Don't forget to have your photographer in on the surprise, no matter who's doing the proposing, to capture that very special moment when the question is asked!

Have questions about your wedding planning? I'm available to answer questions via email at Tanya@WeddingsbyTanya.com. For more information on a Planned Elopement to Full Wedding Planning, go to www.WeddingsbyTanya.com.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Looking for 2012!

2011 is almost behind us and 2012 is right in front. What will it hold is the question everyone is asking.

2012 is going to be a wonderful year for weddings. Many couples got engaged over the holidays and are looking forward to starting their lives together as husband and wife.

Some of you may be wondering what trends are showing up:

1) White weddings - everything is white including flowers, attendants attire, mothers' dresses and even guests can be asked to wear white.
2) Colors - The rich jewel tones are being included in the flowers
3) Smaller guest lists- Couples are choosing to include only those family and friends who really mean a lot to them.
4) Formal weddings - Black tie is back in vogue.
5) Destination weddings - Couples are choosing beautiful, romantic spots like the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Cancun, Mexico, Italy for their weddings. This way they keep the guest list small, if any. (I'm doing a lot of "Planned Elopements" which includes setting up spa dates, a special romantic lunch/dinner for the couple, performing the ceremony etc. This also allows the couple to stay in a beautiful resort for their honeymoon.)
6) Hiring a wedding coordinator - Couples, and especially brides' mothers are finding they can actually enjoy the planning and the wedding by turning the details and stress over to a coordinator.
7) Pets - if it's possible to include a special pet do! Just be sure to have a handler take over the animal after their job is done.

These are just a few of the trends for 2012. What are your ideas, thoughts, dreams and desires for your wedding day? Bring them to Weddings, Etc. LLC and we'll help make it happen. www.weddingsbytanya.com.

On another note - Weddings, Etc. LLC is expanding to Houston, TX! Look for the formal announcement coming soon!

Wishing everyone a Very Happy and Safe New Year!

Fall Happenings - New Trends

HAPPY FALL!

It's been a while since I've written, but a lot has happened.

I attended Wedding MBA in Las Vegas. This was a wonderful, exciting convention with many excellent speakers. Everything that we learned will help us give our clients the best service utilizing the latest in technology.

Kathy Ireland was a featured speaker. What an inspiration she is and such a "touchable" personality.

Trends for next year are white weddings. Everything from the attendants attire to the flowers are white. To go the other direction, use rich vibrant colors, such as the jewel tones. Weddings are getting back to more formal, black tie affairs, more intimate. Excitement, fun and maybe something a bit different, are the order of the day. Don't be afraid to enlist the services of a school choir, a magician, set up a Las Vegas room, and don't forget the photo booth! My advice is let your guests wanting more! You'll all have fun and wonderful memories of a very special day.

My "Planned Elopements" are becoming more popular. Couples who don't want the fuss of a full wedding, but still want a meaningful, romantic wedding, other than just signing on the dotted line at the county clerk's office, allow me to help them arrange a romantic stay at one of the mountain resorts or fabulous hotels in downtown Denver. Want a sunset ceremony? Take a look at what I did at Daniel's Park.

In September I did an elopement in Black Hawk, Colorado, at the Ameristar Hotel and Casino. We actually went up the hill about a quarter of mile and down into a grove of aspen trees. Makeup and hair was done by Leslie Snyder of www.lesliesarts.com and photography was done by Ken Miller www.kenmillerphotography.com.

Also in September I had the opportunity to do a wedding for a wonderful couple. The ceremony was in their back yard, and the reception was held at the DTC Hyatt. Decor was done, beautifully by Design Works. Jessie is a wonder to work with. The fabulous cake was done by Elegant Bakery, www.elegantbakery.com and was gluten free. (There wasn't a crumb left!) This bride also did something outstanding. She wrote and sang (via CD) the song for their first dance. It was written specifically for her groom! You can look for her CD at some point on the shelves! (Justine Wasserman-Thomas).

Currently, I'm working on an elopement to be in Breckenridge in December. As a reminder, I am available to travel, so can assist with any destination wedding anywhere in the world.

Have a Happy Fall, HAPPY HALLOWEEN everyone!

Wedding MBA

I had the opportunity to attend the Wedding MBA in Las Vegas. This was one of the most worth while conventions I've ever attended.

The speakers were outstanding and gave lots to think about and new goals to meet. Some of the speakers, that stood out to me were:

John Goolsby of Godfather Films. www.GodfatherFilms.com

Kathy Ireland who gave one of the most inspirational and motivating presentations.

Alan Berg, arthur of "If your website was an employee would you fire it?"

Sasha Souza

The top wedding publications/websites were represented. The Knot, Wedding Wire, Martha Stewart Wedding Magazine, just to list a few.

Any wedding vendors who haven't experienced this should. It's worth the time and investment.

One of my goals is to take my course The Art of Wedding Coordination national and international. This course is for anyone wanting to hone their skills or who want to learn how to be a wedding/event coordinator. Information is available on my website www.weddingsbytanya.com.

Planned Elopements in Colorado

There's a lot to be said for eloping, especially if it's "planned". One of the many services I offer is "Planned Elopements"(c). What is a "Planned Elopement"? This is where you call or email me with your date, what you want and I take it from there.

Perhaps you'd like to start your day with a massage in the spa, I can help book this. While you are doing this, your groom would like to have a fly fishing lesson or go golfing, I can arrange this as well.

I can assist with , photographer, videographer and anything else you'd like to include.

If you'd like your make up and hair done, I will recommend a professional makeup/hair artist to come to you so you'll look your stunning best for your wedding.

Jenn and Jim came to Colorado from Birmingham, AL. They specifically wanted a sunset wedding with mountains in the background.

Credit

Flowers - Encore Style (Kirsten Rodriguez), http://www.encorestyleinc.com/ for the beautiful bouquet and boutonniere of red roses;

Photography by Ken Miller http://www.kenmillerphotography.com/
Town car furnished by A Advantage Limousine http://www.limoucinedenver.com/

You can find out more from my website www.WeddingsbyTanya.com or email me at Tanya@WeddingsbyTanya.com or tporterweddsetc@hotmail.com.

Happy Planning!

Even though you've chosen to get married, with just the two of you (or a couple of friends) this is your wedding day and it should be special and full of good memories.

Colorado wedding license info

HAPPY 4th of JULY! As we remember the founding our our Country and give thanks for all the freedoms we enjoy, I'm wishing you a safe and fun day!

Now, you can do your Colorado marriage license application on line. This is for Arapahoe County so you just need to insert the county you want to apply to:

www.co.arapahoe.co.us

Then when you arrive at the County Clerk's office, all you need to do is show your ID, pay your $30 (cash) sign and you are ready to go. It will save a lot of time, especially if you are out of town, state or country.

Certified Copies -

To request certified copies the cost is $1.25 per copy and $2.00 handling fee
Go to the on-line tools.
Do a Legal Document search
Accept the disclaimer
Go to the empty fields and type in the groom's last name then first name

There's a list of where you need to change your name in my book WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE, A Bride's Workbook (c). (This can be purchased through www.weddingsbytanya.com.)

I just did a beautiful elopement, at sunset, at Daniel's Park just outside of Denver. Pictures will follow.

Have a safe and wonderful 4th!