Weddzilla's newest Featured Vendor Blogger

Exciting news to post as I have been added as a Featured Vendor Blogger on the fabulous Weddzilla bridal blogsite.  My Weddzilla posts will center on Questions posed to me by Weddzilla readers. I have decided to call my segment  Ask the Countess. {I admit it's a bit quirky...} 

My goal is to provide expert advice in an unpretentious manner, and interject a dash of humor whenever possible.  Let's face it: Wedding planning is stressful enough.  Hopefully Ask the Countess will be well received.  To view and read my first post click here: Ask the Countess.

Do You REALLY Need a Wedding Planner?... {Wedding Advice from a Caterer}

I love, love, love this blog post by caterer Debi Brim; I'm so excited to be able to share it with our weditorial(tm) readers!

Do You REALLY Need a Wedding Planner? I say, "Heck, YEAH!"
by Debi Brim - Cater It Simple

In this era of cutting back and pinching pennies, it’s only natural for brides to look at what costs they can cut from the budget. And since most of us have been planning our wedding since we were, oh I don’t know …… FOUR!!!! …… we tend to think “oh, it’s just a wedding! Anyone can throw one of those together!” So it’s also natural to think a wedding planner is just an extra expense.

Want to know what I think? Well, I’m going to tell you anyway.

“In today’s economy” (a phrase I’ve come to hate more and more each day), it is more important than ever to have a wedding planner.

Planners are the ones who actually SAVE you money:

· They review your contracts to be sure that what you THINK you’re getting is what you’re actually getting.

· They have a huge Rolodex of wedding vendors and can match you up to the ones who can do what you want on the budget you have.

· When touring a venue, the bride is caught up in the emotion of the moment and is only seeing how pretty everything will look. The planner is looking at parking spaces, what condition the restrooms are and where they are located, how and where the bar and the caterer will set up, and are there enough outlets for the DJ and the caterer’s carving station?

· When a bride is talking to the caterer, the bride is in turmoil trying to decide between chicken and fish. The planner is asking what the server/guest ratio is and how much is the cost of each server?

Let me share some stories on how planners have helped brides.

- Bride hires wedding planner after selecting the venue but before signing the venue contract. When planner reviews the contract, she finds the bride has contracted for the use of the building ONLY. Bride thought she was getting tables, chairs, linens and lots of other things that the bride thought “were always included” at a reception. The planner saved the bride over $6000 on a bad contract. Well worth the $2000 the bride paid the planner.

- Bride decides to forego the professional planner and use her best friend, who after all, was a bridesmaid three times, so she knows ALL about planning weddings! The friend failed to take note of the facility’s $2000 fee for turning on the air conditioning and the newly married couple had to come up with this money at the very, VERY last minute, which was a severe cut into their honeymoon fund.

- The band hired by the bride was telling bride and planner where they would be setting up, what time they would be there and where the wives’ table would be. Planner corrected band member by showing him the already-decided place they would set up, giving him the actual time he would be there and asked him what he meant by a wives’ table? Band member says, “Oh the wives always come to all of our gigs.”

Planner told him this was not a “gig”, this was a wedding, the wives were not on the guest list, and there would be no wives table because there would be no wives. Band member began to argue the point. Planner fired the band and hired a professional DJ. Bride was relieved.

When times are good and people have good jobs, they don’t worry about costs as much. I’m not saying they don’t comparison shop, but they tend to buy bells and whistles instead of staying in a budget. It’s easy to plan a wedding when you’re not paying attention to every penny.

When times are tough, a couple just can’t afford last minute surprises. But they’ve never planned a party for 200+ people before and there are questions they just don’t know to ask. An event planner knows those questions and when he/she asks them, the bride saves money.

As a caterer, I’m always relieved to see a professional planner walk into the room. I know the details are going to be handled, things will run on schedule, and it will be a very pleasant event for everyone.

If you have a tight budget, you NEED a wedding planner. Today, more than ever, it’s the best investment you can make in your wedding.

Remember, it’s your wedding. You have ONE SHOT to get it right. Get a professional on your side who is going to be looking out for you on your very special day.

Debi Brim can be reached via email at info@cateritsimple.com

Websites:
http://www.cateritsimple.com/
http://www.cateritsimple.blogspot.com/
http://www.bannascookies.com/

{Thank you Debi!!!}

"Whose Your DeeJay?" [Thoughts on Weddings and DJ Entertainment]

This weekend, I had the pleasure of working with a cute young couple who had a very tight wedding budget. I was confronted with a few challenges while coordinating their wedding, not the least of which was the fact that the friend who officiated their wedding was also playing the role of DJ/MC. And while I must commend the bride and groom for their efforts in organizing a complete playlist of music for the evening, here are some of the glitches we encountered:
- There was no prelude music for the ceremony
- There was no exit music for the recessional
- The first dance song ended up on the wrong iPod (and we had to track it down)
- The music selections for dinner were a bit unorthodox
- The pre-programmed music selections did not leave any room for 'playing to the crowd'
...and so on...

Fortunately they had me to help keep things running smoothly, and overall things went very well; the couple had "their day, their way" and they seemed oblivious to glitches.

When I'm wearing my "Day-of" coordinator hat, I must be careful to provide support, not criticism. As a Planner, I would strongly advise against this type of scenario and take appropriate steps to illuminate and eliminate potential glitches. However, when circumstances dictate that I play the hand I'm dealt, that's precisely what I do. And let's face it: if the couple could have afforded a wedding planner, they likely could have afforded a professional DJ as well.

Ironically, I returned home to find an email from a colleague who provides exceptional DJ services. Obviously, fresh off a gig and needing to vent - here is his email to me (but it reads more like a plea to Brides & Grooms):

"Elisa - I wonder why brides don't trust their DJ to play the right music? I have had way too many brides completely program their wedding music to the point that they have had to hear certain songs in a certain order and at certain times."

"Most good DJ's have the ability to read the crowd and know what to play when to play it. I understand that you may not want to hear a certain song or songs, but to totally program the entire function, just defeats the purpose of having a DJ. You might as well just bring your iPod. Oh that's right, you would have to rent the speakers and no one would be able to talk on the mic and introduce you in..."

"If you trust your DJ to do that, then trust him/her to play the right music.
Most of us do this for a living. I personally do 75+ weddings a year, so I may have seen a wedding or two in my life. We don't want you to be unhappy so we are going to do the best possible job we can. We are going to do a good job, trust us!"

I contemplated the situation he described and couldn't help wonder why this is so... Where does it stem from? And then a thought occurred to me:

Picture the wedding I described - glitches and all - and then try to estimate how many of the 100 guests in attendance understood the entertainment arrangements. It's quite possible that a few people (maybe more) were unaware that the DJ was not a hired professional. It's also possible that an engaged couple or two were present, in which case they were likely wondering what to expect from their wedding DJ... Would they feel the need to dictate the entire evening to ensure their satisfaction? Hmmmm.... yes, I'd say that's plausible.

© 2009 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

Tips for Brides & Grooms: Protecting Yourself in Today's Uncertain Economy

According to The Wedding Report, wedding spending has declined significantly since 2007 - almost by 30% (averaged) overall. The vast majority of wedding vendors can attest to the a downsizing of wedding budgets, as well as a drop off in bookings (new clients). Consultants and Coordinators in particular have seen postponements and cancellations spike in recent months.

Everyone is feeling the pinch; while engaged couples are trying to save, Photographers, DJs, Consultants and Venues are trying to survive. Competition for new bookings is fierce, thus creating a buyer's market which gives couples shopping for wedding vendors and services more purhcasing power. But how can you spot a "true bargain"? I'd like to offer a few tips to help you make a sound investment:

1. Perform a Status Check - Do your homework to determine if the vendor's company is healthy. A healthy company is "current", meaning they have an up-to-date presence, including a website featuring pictures of current staff, projects and client testimonails. A company that is healthy is typically involved in Professional Associations, and may be known as a leader in their industry. Healthy companies are growing (even now) and are gearing up for a great 2009-2010 wedding season. Look for current blog posts, quick responses to emails and phone calls, and positive recommendations from others (friends, vendors, etc.).

Look for evidence of
a well established business
with a proven track record.



2. Beware of the high pressure sales pitch: The best vendors are eager for your business but not desperate.

3. Beware of Part-Timers: A part-timer (sometimes known as a 'moonlighter' or 'weekend warrior') may be able to offer a very competitive price, but do they have the equipment and experience to deliver the quality of product or service you are looking for? What is their stake in the success of your event and are they driven to ensure your complete satisfaction? Does the Vendor's Contract protect both parties?

4. Beware of Start-Ups: The poor economy has spawned a huge number of start-up businesses; people who have lost jobs or need extra income are becoming entrepreneurs. On one hand, it's beneficial to the market to have more affordable options, but who is the person behind the start-up? Do they have any experience with weddings? Will they grow tired of this new business venture in 6 or 9 months and leave you in the lurch? Is it worth the risk to hire someone with no track record?

5. Beware of "Free": "Free" is a hook; it's a term that often denotes an extra added value. Conversely, free also has no refund value, so like it or not, you're stuck with it. (ex: "That free album you gave me was poor quality." "The free candle centerpices only lasted halfway through the reception." ...Get the picture?)


For additional pointers on what to look for when hiring a professional wedding planner and coordinator, please visit our Website

Fun & Festive Wedding & Party Favors [ Kernel Encore, Orlando ]

Here's an idea that sure to please everyone on your guest list! Custom flavored popcorn treats, wrapped & ready to go, in every color of the rainbow!



Below, our purple and lime green color theme was complimented by individual bags of custom blended flavors: Peanut Butter and Grape, Grape & Green Apple and Caramel Apple.

Our guests could not believe their eyes and were so excited to receive such an original favor! Pricing is quite affordable and shipping is available to any locale. These make great gifts, too! Please visit the Kernel Encore store in Orlando or visit their online store

Green with Envy! - Wedding Reception at Lake Mary Events Center

I just had to share a few images of this fabulously stylish reception from last weekend. This apple green and brown color theme is not exactly new, but it's still quite popular; and this reception was exceptionally chic! It exemplifies how a few simple details, such as custom graphics, granny smith apples and cymbidium orchids, can deliver a huge, dramatic impact!

My very talented bride designed her own invitations, custom favors and table signage. The same brown and green motif was also incorporated into the cake design (cake by Karen Alvarez) and the graphic for the video screen. It's easy to see how these signature details were instrumental in tying event decor together.

The major splurge for the reception decor was a lighting package by Kaleidoscope Productions; they provided perimeter and accent lighting throughout ballroom which glowed apple green most of the evening, but also changed periodically to enhance the mood of special dances and draw attention to the cutting of the cake, etc.

I also must say a few words about the beautiful Lake Mary Events Center. The Events Center has so much to offer! It's a state of the art events venue with a tastefully appointed interior and lovely lake front views. Wedding ceremonies can be accommodated outdoors as well as indoors. The Events Center has a spacious Grand Ballroom with a dark wood dance floor and a small stage, a large Rotunda, flexible pre-function space, meeting and conference rooms, and dressing rooms. It is well designed and provides a "comfortable flow" - meaning everything is convenient and easily accessible - which is important to every event. Be sure to consider it for your next event!

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved / Photos by E. Delgardio

ISES GIVES BACK 2 - An Amazing Night at HEAVEN Event Center

A few weeks ago I attended "ISES GIVES BACK 2 - Heavenly Holidaze" at the Heaven Event Center. (I blogged briefly about Heaven once before; it's a ultra cool new venue space in Orlando.) This event was a spin-off of a fundraising event our ISES Programs team - led by J. Michael Hicks - produced last September.

Flashback to ISES GIVES BACK - 2007
Elisa with J.Michael Hicks, Derek Eaton and Jason Gabel
Courtesy: Christie's Photographics

ISES GIVES BACK - It all began as a group of ISES friends came together to help a hardworking woman in the midst of some tragic circumstances. Quickly, many members of the special events industry also stepped forward to assist, and created this event. "ISES GIVES BACK - A Party for A Purpose" succeeded in raising critical funds that helped stabilize the recipient's financial situation. In addition to generous support and contributions from local friends and associates, The SEARCH Foundation also provided a significant donation.

ISES GIVES BACK 2 - 2008
Courtesy: Elisa Delgardio

The "Heavenly Holidaze" event featured approximately two dozen ISES members who provided incredible food, furniture and floral decor, entertainment, lighting and more! The sponsorships for this event totaled over 85k and the venue looked amazing both inside and out! One of the fun-tastic features of the evening was the Laser Graffiti display, provided by ISES member Jon Adcock of Chameleon Designs. Jon describes Laser Graffiti as a combination of laser light, computers and projection, used in conjunction to create artistic and whimsical entertainment that's so mesmerizing everyone wants to participate! I must agree - it was a blast!

ISES GIVES BACK 2 - 2008
Courtesy: Christie's Photographics

The event which was widely covered by the local and industry media, was a complete success - all for a worthy cause!

"Hello - I'd like to be added to your Approved Vendor List"

I am often contacted by Vendors looking to establish a relationship with my company... Actually, more often than not, they're just looking for business... More specifically, business that I might send to them. While I give them credit for reaching out in a proactive manner, let's talk a bit about the requests I receive via email, telephone calls and voice messages asking: "How can I be added to your vendor list?" Hmm... Good question. Often I'll respond: "Send me an email with your info and I'll be happy to add it to our vendor resource file. You never know when we might need it!" - which is not entirely untrue, but it's also easier than answering the question honestly. If you're wondering about how vendors get added to my referral list, here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Please don't cold-call me. (Hello... Do you ever use bounce-houses?) Take the time to look at my website and familiarize yourself with the information posted there - learn about me, my company and the type of work we do.
2. Save a tree (and a stamp!). I can't remember the last time I responded to unsolicited information. (Sorry.)
3. Bribes don't work. (Again, sorry.) You may call it an incentive, but I refuse to give referrals based on compensation. Why? Because as a professional Consultant I'm committed to operating in the best interests of the Client. Not only is the practice of accepting referral fees frowned upon by some of the professional associations I'm affiliated with (it's like double dipping), I believe that this business practice would ultimately damage my professional credibility.
4. If you manage to grab my attention and you ask me to check out your website, IT BETTER BE GOOD. Truth be told, if your website is not completely professional (including valid contact info), fully functional and legible (yes, spelling counts) you will probably never get a referral from me.
5. Please don't request a meeting. (When can I drop by your office or meet you for coffee...?) As a business owner, wife and mother, I just don't have the time to have coffee with every vendor in town. (Let's not even get into the safety issues...) I pretty much stopped doing this altogether after a videography company called me persistently to set a meeting which I eventually agreed to. I arrived at the appointment only to have a representative hand me a sheet of paper which directed me to their website. (Huh!?! - no demo?!? Are you kidding!?!) So, I tried to ask the representative intelligent questions about their services & work which she could not answer because she was 'new'. She didn't even have a business card to give me. My daughter had accompanied me to the meeting and said to me in the car afterward, "Well, that wasn't a very good meeting". "No honey, it wasn't", I replied. (I love that kid! - even at 11 years old she knew better.)

Now it may seem like the door has been slammed shut, but that's really not the case. The fact of the matter is, it's very important for me to meet new vendors and keep my Rolodex updated to include rising stars as well as luminaries from every facet of the special events industry. This allows me to present my clients with a fabulous array of options... which is an essential part of the customized services I provide.

Stay tuned for a future post: "Tips for Getting More Referrals from Planners & Coordinators"

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

A "Sensational, Emotional and Unforgettable" New Look!

How fab is my blog header picture!!!

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the work of my friend, Orlando photographer Thomas Alan . He's amazingly talented and such a pleasure to work with! I am so grateful to him for allowing me to use this stunning image which is featured in my new prints ads, website and business cards.... (oooh!)

I must also give credit and thanks to Susan McLean of Z to A Creative for her wonderful assistance with the layout and design of all these components.

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

Heaven on Earth

"And now for something completely different." John Cleese
(Granted, it's a little odd to lead with a quote, but here goes!)


I had the opportunity to visit Heaven today. Really; right here in Orlando.

Actually, The Heaven Event Center is a brand new venue space that's truly unique! Heaven boasts approximately 7,000 feet of interior space which serves as a blank canvas for your most original event concepts! Outside, there's 2000 square feet of lakefront terraces, plus parking for up to 400 cars!

I can see this space being used in many different ways... It easily lends itself to being set as "Club", "Lounge" or anything with a modern or industrial edge. For example, I can totally visualize this space decked out with floral and decor for a contemporary "white wedding" or transformed into a softer and sexier space with lots of furniture, lighting effects and maybe even a few poker tables... heck, you could even have a cigar roller on the terrace.

The possibilites are endless... good stuff!

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

When the Vendor Overrides the Consultant

A few days ago I was confronted with a situation where a Vendor that I referred (not just any vendor, someone I refer a lot, a friend even...) told me that they had provided vendor referrals to my/our client. Upon learning this, I must have said something in my moment of shock because the Vendor said, "well, I figure you refer them too" -which I do, because XYZ service is a great company, but just not one of the two names I gave this particular Client.

I mean, as the bride's Consultant - and a well qualified consultant to boot - it's my job to assess her needs and recommend vendors that I believe would be a good fit for her. The Client has made the decision to hire me and follow my recommendations (and there is no kickback or referral fee involved at all!). I strongly believe that vendors should honor this agreement / arrangement / contract, therefore, I was having trouble grasping the fact that a trusted vendor would essentially override my authority by offering vendor recommendations. AND, even though I can imagine a multitude of scenarios where the client might casually ask a vendor their opinion about something, I don't understand how / why this vendor didn't respect me enough to refer the client back to me. They simply could have said "Elisa knows so many people, I'm sure she'd be happy to give you more names" or "Elisa only works with the best, after all she sent you to me" or something to reinforce the clients' faith in me....

Unfortunately, this is not the first time that this has happened to me. I mean, I'd bet is was not any vendor's intention to be disrespectful; in fact, I'm sure they were trying to be helpful. But, considering that we (Consultants/Planners in general) are paid by our clients for (among other things) referrals to vendors, you'd think that the vendors would show a little more discretion.

If you're a vendor and you're reading this, always remember where your Client came from. If the Client came by way of referral from a Planner/Consultant, you need to fight you inner urge to be "Super Vendor" ("the one with all the answers") and direct the Client and any questions they may have back to their Consultant.

If you're a Client or potential Client, remember this: As your Consultant I do not offer referrals based on kickbacks (compensation for the referral). As a Consultant, I will listen to your needs and offer advice based on my assessment of what you're looking for. I will provide a short list of top professionals based on price, personality and style, but can provide many more additional names if needed. However, if you ask the DJ who makes the best wedding cakes, or if you ask the invitation lady which photographer is better, you might be shooting yourself in the foot (so to speak) because you don't really know what the other vendor's motivation is... Think about it: Is the invitation lady going to ensure that the photographer will work well with the other vendors on-site and execute his/her job to your satisfaction?

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved