IN LOVE WITH WEDDINGS
As many of you know I love weddings. I fell in love with weddings at the age of nine. My mother took me to a wedding and I just loved the concept of the white dress and fresh flowers. I attended more weddings of course as I grew older. The more I attended, the more I fell in love with them. I served as a bridesmaid (not quite 27) I helped with a few then before you knew it... I was the BRIDE!!! I planned my own wedding (but wouldn't recommend it to everyone) and hired a coordinator for the day. I designed everything from my programs, centerpieces to wedding favors. I was exhausted afterwards but it was all worth it.
THE BIRTH OF MY BUSINESS- TWO FOLD
My business was conceived once I found out that one of our guest took my centerpiece and replicated it. She started selling them to brides. It didn't really upset me but it did confirm that maybe I was on to something. A simple goblett upside down with a candle secured and a few miniature christmas ornaments glued around the parameter of the candle base. It was the autumn season with a color palette of terra Cotta, chocolate and ivory. Table overlays in a metallic terra cotta taffeta material and fresh ivy garland surrounding the centerpieces.
Months later, I was told that my programs had been replicated. By this time, I was like "WOW" my work must be impressive. A detailed program with a monogram emobossed "P" on the front. I begin to ponder how I could actually design, devise and ultimately sale things for weddings. In doing my research as an entrepreneur http://www.entrepreneur.com/ (a great tool for entrepreneurs), weddings are a billion dollar industry. Products for Babies and Brides rank in high bucks. I wanted a piece of the action. I participated in small bridal show at my church http://www.mtzionnashville.org/ and reeled in 4 new contracts. These 4 contracts (thanks to word of mouth) reeled in 8 more the following year. While in infancy stages, I made flowers and centerpieces for small weddings. I didn't make much $$$, I just broke even but it was an excellent way to get my name out there. More and more people begin to notice my creativity.
AN OUTLOOK ON '08
For 2008, I look forward to working with my new blushing brides. I have some beautiful themed and funky motif weddings to match my beautiful brides. From Tiffany inspired http://www.tiffany.com/ to Bling, to Parasols with a tropical twist. A moulin rouge inspired with hot pink and black feathers to a sophisticated, sleek Preston Bailey (my favorite designer) inspired wedding http://www.prestonbailey.com/ and many more! I've got my work cut out for me this year and I am excited about all of the unique style of weddings.
I've met some really cool planners in '07 who I look forward to working with this year. Definately be on the watch out for http://www.adelightfulday.com/ planners Mary Alice and Amber Housley are two of a kind. They are so much fun to work with and very creative I must say. I am still in 'awe of those limes as place card holders. So innovative- exactly what brides are looking for. I've always said, it's the small things make the Biggest details. Talking about WOW FACTORS!!! Everybride is searching for WOW FACTORS in which I recommend at least three. Amber is expert in stationary and program design. You name it and she can design it...
Also, Nichole Edwards serving middle tennessee brides http://www.nicoleselegantevents.com/ will be another planner to keep up with. Very well organized and a great peronsality. She keeps her clients in line and is crafty herself. I am loving those orhid centerpieces with the beta fish. Another WOW FACTOR and a great CONVERSATION PIECE...
Another great vessel for brides http://www.ashleysbrideguide.com/. I recently met with Ashley and her knack for being a "guide for brides" is unbelievable. Her daily scoop and fun, informative and engaging events will be the talk of the town in '08.
I am so excited about the upcoming bridal show http://www.perfectweddingguide.com/ on 2/17 at the FRIST Center. I have sketched my tablescape and have incorporated those WOW FACTORS that be most impressive to brides. My table is once again inspired by fashion. Hope you can come and see it!!!! I'll give you a hint: you've seen it "buzzing" down the runways~
Stay tuned, more to come...
