Q & A with Owner, Correna Monroe
1. How did you become interested in wedding planning, and what inspired you to pursue it as a career?
Having seven children, being married 26 years, and serving in ministry, I have planned a plethora of events. Those include corporate, ministry events, retreats, community events, birthday parties, showers, weddings, graduations, dances, sweet 16’s, music events, school events and speaking events.
After many years of experience and working for a venue, I realized the events I loved doing the most were weddings. I feel like it’s a gift to be a part of someone’s beginning of happy ever after. It’s a ministry to help them stay in budget and start off on the right foot as one.
2. Can you describe your approach to creating a wedding vision that aligns with a couple's unique style and preferences?
I start by just listening and taking notes. I try to get to know them as a couple and then begin creating a design board.
I request their Pinterest board or inspiration pictures. After our conversation, I will gather multiple ideas and present them at our next planning session. Typically, I will bring florals to compliment those design ideas. We will add to it or take away at that point. This approach works well and usually gets the ball rolling in the right direction.
3.How do you handle unexpected challenges or emergencies that may arise on the wedding day?
I’m known to be a “problem solver.” I will do whatever it takes to make everything go as smoothly as possible. We often put out many “fires” without anyone even knowing. That’s the goal. We come prepared with many tricks to the trade. Also, we always have a minimum of two coordinators come in contract two weeks before with our minimal package instead of walking in the “day off” like most coordinators alone.
4.What services do you offer in your wedding planning packages, and are there any customizable options?
We have several options and yes, a customizable option is always available. Our most popular is the “Fairy Rose” with the added Decor Package.
We offer several add-ons. Such as glassware, cutlery options, linen rentals, decorating set-up & break down ( including our inventory), florals, rsvp handling etc.
5.What is your preferred method of communication with clients, and how do you keep them updated throughout the planning process?
1. Upon booking, I require a phone or in- person consult.
2. Texts are always best once booked. I prefer everything in writing to reference back.
3. Aisle Planner is the software that I use and it’s a great communication tool for clients
that hire us for wedding planning. We can share designs, checklists, appointments, notes, budget, the layout and timeline, all in one place.
6. How do you manage and stick to a wedding budget while still delivering the couple's dream wedding?
1. Having preferred vendors is vital as a wedding planner. I have been blessed to meet and build a relationship with some of the best vendors. We work with each other the best way we can to negotiate contracts and bring prices to stay within budget. We do each other favors all the time!
2. You can’t be afraid to talk to your couples. Be real with them from the start.
3. Creativity. My favorite part.
7.What is your philosophy on ensuring that a wedding day runs smoothly and stress-free for the couple and their guests?
1. You must communicate with each vendor, confirm contracts and KNOW before you go!
2. Be prepared for anything! Have your emergency kit!
8.How do you handle potential conflicts or differences of opinion between family members or the couple during the planning process?
As I keep mentioning, communication is so crucial. Parents are feeling very emotional about letting their loved one leave the nest. If we include them by giving a task or just contacting them with updated information, it makes all the difference. We try to become the one they trust and become a neutral party for them to speak to and to handle those differences.
9.What sets you apart from other wedding planners, and what unique skills or qualities do you bring to the table?
1. Many planners limit their communication. I do not.
2. I pray for the couples that I get the privilege to work with.
3. I never work alone. I will not coordinate or allow my team members to coordinate a wedding alone. When you hire us, you hire “2” minimum. We believe there should be accountability and two is better than one!
4. I always connect with my Brides and their families. I miss them when it’s finished!