On-Site Coordinator vs. Wedding Coordinator

As you begin your wedding planning journey, you are bound to run across a wide range of questions that you may have never considered.  One question that is sure to arise if you're having your wedding/reception at a venue that provides an on-site coordinator is: "What's the difference between a venue's on-site coordinator and a wedding coordinator?"  The simplest and short answer is: "An on-site coordinator works for the venue, while a wedding coordinator works for you!"

Since this is a first time experience for most brides and grooms, it would be a fair assumption that the venue's on-site coordinator will take care of everything related to the wedding.  However, that is not the case.  Now, don't get me wrong, I am NOT in any way bashing onsite coordinators or looking to take away from their overall importance.  In fact, I think they are an excellent help in making sure everything goes smoothly on the big day.  I just wanted to share the difference between the two roles so that there are no surprises if your venue coordinator says he/she will not, or cannot, perform a specific task for you.

An on-site coordinator will usually:

• Provide a list of preferred vendors that have previously worked at the venue
• Consult with you on food/beverage selections
• Create a floor plan for your ceremony/reception
• Detail your banquet event order
• Act as the liason between you and your wedding vendors
• Oversee ceremony/reception setup, food, etc. provided by the venue

A wedding coordinator's list of duties is far more extensive, and includes:

• Working with you during all planning stages of the wedding planning process
• Researching vendors that fit within your budget
• Scheduling and attending vendor appointments
• Negotiating contracts 
• Providing design and decor ideas
• Assisting with questions regarding proper etiquette
• Helping you stay within budget and creating a vendor payment schedule
• Creating a detailed timeline of the day for you, your bridal party, and vendors
• Confirming all vendors prior to the wedding day
• Arriving early to ensure timely and proper setup
• Providing an "emergency kit" in the case of unforeseen incidents
• Overseeing the event through its finality

When planning an event as big and special as a wedding, it would be ideal to have both an on-site coordinator AND a wedding planner.  The on-site coordinator is a wonderful asset to making sure all venue-related bases are covered, but make sure you have a wedding coordinator on your side to help make sure ALL bases are covered.  When these two professionals work together, your chances of  having a wonderfully orchestrated, stress-free event are doubled!

Don't Go It Alone: Hire a Wedding Planner!

The two largest purchases a person will probably make in their lifetime are a house and a car.  In many cases, paying for a wedding rounds out the top three (sometimes even coming in at number two!).  The average homebuyer will hire a real real estate agent to assist in the home buying process, while a person looking to buy a new car will seek the guidance of a car salesman.  Why not also hire a skilled professional when it comes to planning your wedding?  After all, this is the day most brides have dreamed of since they were little girls...and with so much money being spent on this special occasion, you wouldn't want to be so stressed from planning the wedding that you don't have time to enjoy it.  Forget about the myth floating around that wedding planners are only for the wealthy.  In this day and age, wedding planners are common and affordable to the everyday working-class professional.  Not convinced?  Well, here are just a few reasons why you shouldn't go it alone, and should consider hiring a wedding planner:

1. Peace of Mind - Planning a wedding can be a long and stressful process.  There are so many decisions to be made and so many little details to be considered.  With that being said, wouldn't you like to have peace of mind that everything has been taken care of, no stones are left unturned, and all you'll have to worry about is showing up, saying I do, and enjoying one of the most special days of your life?  A wedding planner can give you just that.  After all, your job is to be the bride, not the wedding planner!

2. Time - Did you know that the average wedding takes over 200 hours to plan?! Can you imagine researching vendors, scheduling appointments, doing follow-up phone calls, and keeping up with contracts all while handling you regular day-to-day obligations: work, school, family, etc?  When would you find time to sleep?!  An experienced wedding planner can save you countless hours by doing the legwork for you.  They know the best venues and the perfect vendors that can make your special day everything you imagined it to be.  Most likely, the planner has worked with the venue/vendor and can vouch for the quality of their service.  Can you imagine how much time you'll save by not having to run around all over town trying to narrow down your choices?!

3. Savings - If you've never planned a wedding before, chances are you're unfamiliar with the going rate of many of the products and services you'll need to obtain for your wedding.  A planner can help you avoid costly mistakes and shield you from the risk of being taken advantage of.  Not to mention, most planners are skilled in the art of negotiation and will go to bat for you to get the best rates on services.  Also, wedding planners often have access to deep discounts that are not always available to the general public.  If a planner provides continuous business to a vendor, it is not uncommon for the vendor to show their appreciation in the form of discounts that can be passed onto their clients.  In most cases, the wedding planner's fee more than pays for itself in terms of the amount of money you can save by hiring an experienced planner.

4. Problem Solving - Sure, you could ask a family member to be the go-to person on your big day, but think about it: your guests should be just that: guests! They are there to help celebrate your most joyous occasion.  Don't they deserve to sit back and enjoy the festivities?  Secondly, your wedding is one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime.  Would you want to run the risk of a serious problem arising that will put a damper on the entire day? An experienced planner will be able to think on their toes and solve problems without your knowledge that there is even a problem.  Knowledge and experience play a key role in solving last minute problems without panicking.  Also, a good planner will come equipped with a "Bridal Emergency Kit" in the event an unforeseen problem arises.

5. Guidance - There is a big misconception that hiring a wedding planner means you'll lose all control of your wedding.  That couldn't be further from the truth.  In fact, it is a wedding planner's job to advise you of the best options available to you, then carry out your wishes.  A good planner will be your go-to person for etiquette advice, wedding-related questions, and assistance with timelines.  In fact, wedding planners often wear several hats throughout the planning process, acting as your counselor, financial advisor, middleman, mediator, therapist...the list goes on and on!

What's Happening - August 2010

It's that time again!!!  Here on the Platinum Touch Events blog, we like to round up all of the happenings of the month, to keep you informed, prepared, and inspired when it comes to planning your BIG day.  So without further ado, here are just a few of the bridal events taking place this month:

Friday, Aug. 6, 2010

Haute Bride Accessories Trunk Show

Mary Linn's Bridal
9740 Wilshire Blvd.,
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
1pm-4pm (Note: This is a 3 day event)

Designer Lindsie Jones will be present to help you create and design the perfect accessories for your special day! Space is limited so please call (310) 860-9221  to book an appt.

Sunday, Aug. 8, 2010

BrideWorld Expo

Crown Plaza Hotel
300 N Harbor Dr.
Redondo Beach, CA 90015
10am-4pm
$10 admission

Don't miss the South Bay's largest wedding planning expo of the year. Discover aisles of unique and hard-to-find wedding items. Shop and compare 90 local wedding professionals, products and services. Find the best wedding prices and packages. Fashion shows at 12 pm and 2 pm. Planning Seminar 1pm. Driving directions and complete list of participating companies online. Register in advance to save time and reserve FREE magazines and workbooks.

Bridal Premiere

Hyatt Hotel - Westlake Village
880 S. Westlake Blvd.
Westlake Village, CA 91361
11am-3pm
$10 admission

The Bridal Premier, now in its 28th year, offers a fun-day filled with ideas, expert advice, and plenty of prizes for the lucky bride-to-be and her groom!
Meet over 65 wedding professionals ready to assist with all aspects of wedding planning, view fashion shows that feature the latest in wedding attire, stroll the aisles, sample tasty treats from caterers and bakeries, be snapped at the photo booth, and register for thousands of dollars in door prizes. The first 100 Brides to enter the show are entered to win a Hyatt "Honeymoon" Weekend!

Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2010

Crash the Wedding: An Eco-Forward Staged Wedding for Charity

357 S. Robertson Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
6pm-10pm
Admission: $50 per couple

Imagine getting the opportunity to experience a wedding first hand with the top specialists in the area at one of the most beautiful locations. Brides and grooms get to see first hand through a touch and feel experience unlike any wedding show out there.

Sunday, Aug. 15, 2010

Bridal Showplace - Long Beach Wedding Expo

Queen Mary - Long Beach
1126 Queens Hwy.
Long Beach, CA 90802
11am-4pm
$5 Admission

Sunday, Aug. 29, 2010

Here Comes The Bride - The Elegant Bridal Experience

Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside
Pacifica Ballroom, 2nd Floor
6161 W Centinela Ave.
Culver City, 90230
12pm-4pm
$8 Admission w/ website coupon (http://HereComeTheBrides.net )

Come relax and enjoy yourself at our bridal show as you and your groom meet and interview some of the most trust-worthy wedding professionals waiting to serve you! Sample cake and mouthwatering goodies. See beautiful bridal fashions from local wedding salons at the runway fashion show. From cake to travel, and all things in between, the show will help you shorten your needs list.




As always, wishing you a happy planning experience!

Nikola

**Please note that Platinum Touch Events does not endorse, nor are we affiliated with any of these events.  The list is purely for informational purposes.

Budget Saver: Non-Floral Centerpieces

Who says flowers are the only way to go when choosing centerpieces for your big day?  There's no denying that flowers add elegance and sophistication to the overall look of your wedding, but let's face it: floral arrangements can get pretty pricey.  Not to worry, though, because with a little imagination and a LOT of creativity, you can find some pretty amazing non-floral centerpieces.

Here's a round up of possible alternatives:

Candles:

Fruit:

Other Ideas:

Of course, the possibilities are endless.  The key to pulling off the non-floral centerpiece is to keep it fun, creative, and a 100% representation of your style and personality! 

"A Themed Occasion" Open House/Networking Event

Last weekend, Platinum Touch Events hosted "A Themed Occasion" Open House/Networking Mixer at the American Rent All Showroom in Tarzana.  I would like to thank all of the AMAZING vendors that participated to make this event happen:

American Rent All/Party Rentals Pro - Event Rentals
The Legacy Boutique - Photography
Bittersweet Treats - Dessert
Ashley Reed/Mary Kay Cosmetics - Gift Bags
Your Special Night Entertainment - DJ
PAMA/Hypnotiq - Bartender/Cocktails
Lili Lutu - Jewelry Design
Sweet Seductionz - Adult Party Consultants
Sherri J Photography - Gift Cards

Professional pics coming soon, but in the meantime, here is a sneak peek:

Tables set-up at American Rent All:

"Something Blue" Bridal Shower tablescape:

"Diva Bling" Sweet 16 Tablescape:

Yellow, black, & white baby shower tablescape:

This area was set up as the "VIP Bridal Suite":

Cocktails were provided by PAMA/Hypnotiq (they were sooo yummy!!!)

Missed the photo of the yummy food/dessert spread; this photo was taken after the event.  Leftovers were delivered to a homeless shelter in downtown LA.

"A Themed Occasion" was developed from a concept to provide a day of "networking, inspiration, and fun".  I am looking forward to planning the next open house event, which I am hoping to do on a yearly, or maybe even seasonal basis. Stay tuned for more details...the next event will be BIGGER and BETTER!!!

And the Winner Is...

The winner of the complimentary Boudoir Photo Session, courtesy of The Legacy Boutique photography studio is...Mayra A.!!!!  Mayra is currently planning her wedding to her high school sweetheart and, like most brides-to-be, is on a mission to lose weight for her upcoming nuptials. I could totally relate to her story.  I hope that winning the boudoir session will give Mayra the confidence to shine on her BIG day and appreciate the body she is in.  After all, her fiance absolutely adores it!!!


Check out Mayra's entry: 


Hello I would love to win the boudoir picture session because I am currently trying to lose weight for my wedding and at times I find that my self esteem is low and it's not helping my weight loss progress. If I win this picture session I know that it will highly motivate me to want to lose weight so that I can look good in the pictures as well as for the wedding. I know that my fiance would also greatly appreciate the pictures because he is constantly reminding me of how beautiful he thinks I am, something I try to convince myself of as well. My fiance and I started dating in high school over 6 years ago, and well let's face it our bodies change significantly after high school something that I beat myself up about everyday. He's the most amazing person I know because never once has he complained about the extra pounds and he loves me for who I am as a person. If I win this we would both greatly enjoy the opportunity :)


We would like to thank everyone who entered the contest.  It was a really tough decision, as I read some really great responses. Be sure to check out The Legacy Boutique's website and blog to see some of Karen's amazing work, and call to schedule your photo session asap!  


Mayra, please email me at nikola@aplatinumtouchevent.com to claim your prize.


Nikola

Vendor Spotlight: Ashley Reed for Mary Kay

There's no denying that every woman wants to look good...and it's a proven fact that when you look good, you feel good!  As an independent beauty consultant for Mary Kay, Ashley Reed is dedicated to making her clients look and feel their best.  She brings 8 years of experience to the table and has been trained by some of the top professionals in the industry.  She is dedicated to her craft, as evidenced by her ongoing training and continuous study of makeup trends.  Not only that, the woman is as stylish as they come!  She brings to mind the image of the quintessential "Southern Belle", with her unmistakable accent and flair for fashion.  Upon meeting her, you'll feel instantly comfortable and get the sense that you are in the hands of a skilled professional that knows what it takes to bring out the best YOU possible.

Read on for my interview with the diva of beauty, Ashley Reed, and learn how she makes the world a more beautiful place one face at a time.

Name: Ashley Reed

    Location:  Los Angeles

           Company Name: Mary Kay

            Years in Business: 2.5 years

                                       Website: www.marykay.com/dynamicdynasty

                                        Blog: www.dynamicpinkdynasty.blogspot.com 

How did you get involved in the make-up/skincare industry? I began my career in 2002 teaching skin care and color cosmetics with Mary Kay. I took a break from the business while I was enrolled at Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (Los Angeles). After graduation, I re-launched my business with a renewed passion to enrich women’s lives by teaching skin care and advanced color application. I have always loved make up and helping women feel their best about having healthy beautiful skin. I believe that when a person feels better about how he or she looks on the outside it has a positive affect on how he or she feels about him or herself on the inside. I branched into the wedding industry because I love helping to create a bride’s Cinderella experience.

Do you have any formal training? I have attended many seminars/workshops specializing in color application and skin care techniques. I have been trained by the industries top professionals such as Robert Jones (Professional Make Up Artist) and  Dr. Beth Lange (Chief  Scientific Officer at Mary Kay).

What did you do prior to this? I was a student at University of Louisville majoring in Sociology (Go CARDS!) I also finished the Apparel Manufacturing Management program at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Previously, I was a designer/stylist for elevee Custom Clothing – building custom wardrobes for NBA/NFL players and other celebrities.

How do you stay above the competition? I stay well educated by attending various seminars and workshops throughout the year. I study a wide range of products, the specific ingredients, and the proper use and application of these products. I study makeup trends, story boards, and application techniques. I take pride in interpreting these trends for effortless everyday beauty for today’s busy woman. 

What would you say is your biggest source of inspiration? I am inspired by my family. I am blessed to have beautiful people (both inner beauty and outer beauty) who push and encourage me to pursue my dreams and to always strive to do my best.

What are a few ways that couples can save when it comes to make-up on their wedding day? Have an idea of what you want your make up to look like (clip pictures from magazines). Shop around for the best price/services/packages to get the best bang for your buck. Consult with a professional on the look you’d like to achieve. Just like you fit your wedding dress, you want to have a “fitting” with your makeup artist to make sure that he or she can achieve the look that you want prior to your big day.

Besides making the world beautiful one face at a time, what else keeps you occupied? I am super involved with working with teenagers...the Teen Church (The Preparation) we started last September at First AME Church. I am also involved in the Young Adult Ministry (The Journey). Follow us on Twitter FAME_journey. We ustream live every Thursday night at 7:00 pm (search FAME YAM). Of course, I LOVE spending time with my family and friends!

What’s the most valuable advice you would give to a couple in regards to choosing a make-up artist for their big day? 1 – Shop around for the best price/package/services. 2 – Have an idea in mind (supported by pictures) when meeting your potential artist. 3 – Make sure to have a “fitting” prior to your big day to reduce last minute surprises.

If you were not in the make-up/skincare business, what would you be doing instead? Ummmmmm…(blank stare), I guess if I had to choose I would be in fashion creating my own line and non-profit organization. There’s still plenty of time for that dream!

Is there anything else you would like to share? Contact me at 213-361-4609 or dynamicdynasty_diva@yahoo.com to set up Ultimate Beauty Experience featuring Mary Kay products for you and your entire wedding party! FREE skin care and color consultation for your entire wedding party!