JAMISON EVENTS BLOG!

From wedding advice to real weddings to create your DREAM WEDDING, we truly have it all. With 20 years of wedding planning under my belt, this is the best wedding advice site for newly engaged, engaged, and couples thinking about engagement.

Jamison Lopez 9/10/21 Jamison Lopez 9/10/21

Pre-Wedding Trials for your Wedding Hair, Makeup and Photography

Is it really important to do trials for your wedding hair, makeup, and photos? Although wedding planning can be a busy time and drain finances, it’s truly essential to take a moment to ensure who you have hired is a PERFECT fit with your vendors.

Still not convinced? Let me tell you the top 5 reasons why you should have an engagement session/vendor trial (especially for photos, makeup & hair!) + scroll down for my tips on how to approach a conversation when you’re not happy after a trial or have questions.

It’s important to get-to-know the Photographer/ Hair & Makeup Artist and visa-versa.
Typically, you've fallen in love with their work on social media or another event you attended. So, you already know what they can DO, but an engagement session can be a really a great time to feel out that person as a WHOLE. You spend a good amount of time with your photographer on the day of your Wedding, so your engagement session will help you see if this person not only matches your energy, but makes you feel entirely comfortable! This will absolutely make a difference on the day of your Wedding! Do they make you feel at ease and natural? Have they listened to your wants and have they been able to accommodate your wishes?
You’ll learn how your photographer or beauty stylist is on time management.
This is one most Couples don’t tend to think about. Backstory: Some years ago, my best friend took family photos for us and my boys were really uncomfortable with it. They are not big picture takers, but she blew me away because she was so fast with each idea and pose! My best friend, aka photographer, made us feel comfortable and had the best attitude when they would make a funny face or be silly and we all ended up having a great time. The best part, she was so good at capturing the moment so quickly, that it didn’t consume our whole day with photos. This is exactly how you want to feel about your photographer; someone who meshes with the day and doesn't need to overtake photos to get the best shot.
Side Note: In need of family photos? Contact the best- Lisa Lorene Photography IG: @_lisalorenephotography_
Additionally, I attended a destination wedding years ago and the makeup artist was TWO hours behind. While the wedding party started on time, her services were slow. That’s not to say everyone didn't look amazing, but the lack of time management caused the wedding to start two hours late and my wedding planner brain was exploding (haha!).
You will get more comfortable with the camera or makeup.
If you’re anything like me, I freeze when I’m in front of the camera. So, an engagement session will give your photographer a chance to show you new poses and help you really find your inner model. Especially if you are a super stiff person (also like me), your photographer will be more aware if they will need to offer more direction on the day of your Wedding. I often hear the photographer say, “Let’s try that one pose from your engagement session.” It’s like a pre-practice for the big day!
In regards to makeup, I can’t tell you how often my Brides will tell me, “I don’t tend to wear makeup very often,” and are worried about looking overdone. By having them test different foundations, everything from airbrush to light application, you'll give yourself a chance to get used to this new look too!
You will see how you look with their editing.
A few years ago, I worked with a photobooth company that was the go-to photo booth for the Kardashians. I was really excited, because I felt like I would have my ULTIMATE bougie moment, but when I saw my skin color with their filter, I hated it. My inner Khloe was nowhere to be found! The point is, we may all think we look one way in a photo, but it’s not until you see yourself under the filter, when you know if they are fit for you!
You’ll have photos to use for your Wedding Website and Save the Date Cards.
Not doing an engagement session is a BIG regret of my Couples. You’ll never be engaged again, so savor the moment with beautiful photos! Plus, you can use those photos in many aspects of your Wedding; from the Website to your Save the Date cards. Even as a pretty canvas to welcome your guests to your Wedding or a custom Guest Book Album!

So what can YOU do to prepare for your engagement photos & trials?

I always recommend creating a Pinterest or Style Guide in our Jamison Events Planning Platform that you can share with your photographer or hair and makeup artist. This will be filled with inspirational photos of looks and shots that you like! It will also help them get an idea of your style and expectations.

We are on Pinterest! @JamisonEvents

We share our REAL weddings + provide all the dreamy wedding inspo you can create your wedding board with!

Trials don’t have to stop with your Hair and Makeup Artist or Photographer…

How about your DJ?

One way to ensure you are hiring the right DJ for your event is to ask for videos they may have of them working an event. Try out our DJ checklist when interviewing potential candidates! You may even be able to quietly pop into a Wedding prior to your big day for a chance to see your DJ in action. Make sure that you’ve been given permission to do so by the Couple who will be getting married and also make sure to dress appropriately for the occasion. (PS- this should only be a 5 minute max stop in). Check out our other blog, TOP Reasons Why Your Wedding DJ is Important!

And Florals?

While there are often costs involved in a mock table, if you are able, we always recommend planning a mock table trial with your florist. Your florist can either add the cost into your package or charge it separately (communicate this prior to booking). This trial is a great way to see your guest tables, see what you like the look of and what you’d prefer to change and see the coloring and overall aesthetic.

What if you’re not happy with how the trial or session worked out?

If you don’t like the photos they took or the hair style, communication is key, and honesty, honesty, honesty. We never want to hurt someone's feelings, but honesty will help that vendor learn to do better on future occasions. Go into the appointment clear with your expectations and communicate throughout the appointment with what you like and don’t like. This will help ensure the end result is what you are hoping for.

However, if you still aren’t happy with the end result, we highly recommend chatting with that vendor. They may be able to change a process, offer another trial or it could be that they just might be unable to accommodate your expectations, but that is exactly why you planned the trial ahead of time.

**Noted: If you choose not to book that vendor, fees for the trial or engagement session will not be refunded.

All in all, taking the time for a trial, engagement session, meeting or mock setup is always a good idea. This all ensures you have booked the proper Wedding Vendor in the long run for your big day!

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Photo Credit-: Judy and Gavin Photography, Lauren Newman Photography

Hair and Make-up: Fairytale Hair and Makeup

Jamison Lopez 8/24/21 Jamison Lopez 8/24/21

Pre-Marriage Advice from a Wedding Planner

Remember the movie, The Wedding Planner with Jennifer Lopez? That scene where J-Lo predicts how long her couples will last after the wedding & reasons why Steve and Fran’s Marriage won't last? Fran choose her bridesmaids dresses to be teal, which Jlo explains has a bad omen because… (look below!)

Well, sorry to burst any bubbles, but I, and I’m sure many other wedding planners, don’t actually have this ability (although many of us are inspired by this movie)…BUT I do see many different types of relationships and can always point out the ones who really understand what commitment/steps and choices they are making in marriage.

In the 20+ years I’ve worked as a wedding planner, I have gained a perspective on relationships that are unique to most. For less stress & less fights, here are a few pieces of advice in ensuring you not only go into your Wedding Day strong but ready!

Prior to the Wedding Day:

Don’t blow the budget.
My FIRST piece of wedding planning advice to my couples is always, set a budget. The reason I say this first and foremost is because finances are so important in a marriage. It’s possible to have an incredible day, without draining your finances. Remember, you both have a life to live, once the big day is done!
Remember there are TWO of you getting married!
I’m totally the type of person who goes all in, especially when I get excited about something. While I want you to be excited about your big day, make sure you are ALSO considering your partner's wants and needs. The Wedding Planning process gives both of you a chance to set your relationship up for success, so communicate/compromise/ consider each other.
He might just not care about the details!
Many Grooms’ are NID’s (not into details *taken from The Wedding Planner) and that is nothing to worry about! I’ve seen all types of partners; some who are super into planning and others who say “I just want her/him to be happy!” Want more opinion from your NID fiance? Communicate about it + give them one or two tasks and work with them on it, so they feel involved but not overwhelmed.
Have “no plan” days set.
This is my BIGGEST piece of advice I have for you: set a schedule! Go on dates together where you don’t talk at all about the wedding. Instead, talk about yourselves/each other, your jobs, life. Trust me, Wedding Planning will consume you, it’s just inevitable, but also committing to grow your relationship is key!
On the flip side, give yourself a set time/day(s) when you will plan. Maybe every Saturday morning you answer emails and complete a task.
**one odd note: Most Wedding Vendors take Monday and sometimes Tuesday’s off for rest. Know this when you’re looking for a response to a question!
Keep the family situations to a minimum.
Gosh, this is a biggie. The biggest planning struggle for most of my Couples is when too many or certain family members' opinions get involved. There is a fine balance between including them, but also taking their opinions with a grain of salt...but the fact is, this lesson will need to be learned for your entire marriage. My advice is to do your best to keep the peace, but if the need arises, remember the wedding is about the two of you!

“It’s how you handle tough situations that says everything about who you are.” - Jamison
Insert personal touches into your day!
I’m a big fan of customizing details. From table numbers that are named after places you’ve traveled, to favors from that little honey shack you found together on a day date. Using custom moments & elements to your wedding will tie the entire day around the true MVP’s: both of you!
Be nice to each other.
I have a good story about this one: Once I was sitting-in on a tasting and quickly realized that the whole family was a bit on edge. It seemed most of them didn't want to be there and the mood was not a fun one. Towards the end of the tasting the dad bluntly said, “Well, it's HER day. If she is rude here, imagine what she’ll be like at the Wedding.” Now, I was appalled at the Dad’s unnecessary candor, but it did make me understand the situation. Her intensity and demands were not being received well. It’s a big reminder to remember to be nice. It is your day, but you can always attract more bees with honey, so if you’re feeling stressed, take a moment and breathe.
Don’t talk about the wedding with people who are not invited.
It sounds silly, but one of the biggest fights a Couple of mine got into was when a co-worker of the Groom shared how the Bride consistently spoke about the big day to him, then said “I’m sorry we don’t have space to invite you.” I couldn’t help but feel like the entire situation could have been avoided if she had been a bit more careful about who she was sharing her plans with.
Go to pre-marriage counseling.
Marriage is a forever thing, so why not go into your wedding day with tools on how to make the next decades of your life the best they can be! One person of the couple almost always tends to feel unsure about this, but I always find that my Couples who commit to regular counseling prior to their big day, seem more ready for the necessary steps.
Take a honeymoon after.
There’s something so amazing about celebrating with your family and friends, then heading off for a romantic time with just you two. Being able to de-stress, build a memory together, and start your marriage off on the right foot is SO important. Whether you jet off to a tropical island or stay local for a weekend away, it's important to take time together (no phone, social media or stress) and just be together, married.

Beyond everything, your wedding is about coming together with those you love the most to celebrate your love for each other. This looks different to every single couple I work with, but my goal as your Planner is to set off your life together on the best foot possible!!

We would SUPER appreciate it if you gave us some love on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook & join the Jamison Events Community!

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Jamison Lopez 8/20/21 Jamison Lopez 8/20/21

Wedding Tasting Cheat Sheet

It’s time for your Wedding Tasting! Each venue plans their tasting differently: some do one-on-one tastings with full detailing’s and others do large group tastings with buffets. This quick, cheat sheet will help you determine the best direction to go with your menu choices!

Your tasting should include a couple salad choices to try (with dressings), a few entrée choices (with sauces) and a few side choices. Please offer upfront all of your overall Wedding ideas and themes.

Tip #1- Who to bring-

Bring only a small group. While it sounds fun to have a large group of people there, multiple opinions can get overwhelming. We suggest sticking to a core group that will help you narrow down your choices.

Tip #2- What to bring?

Notepad & pen
Currently Hired Vendors’ info (company, name, email & phone number)
Any particular questions you might have for the venue.
Answers for your Decor- such as napkin and linen color, chair choices, etc. The more details you can decide on at the tasting, the easier the planning process will be.
Ideas on your general timeline (Ceremony start time, Cocktail Hour Time, End of Night time)

Tip #3- Take Notes!

Take notes on everything you decided on (even if the person conducting the tasting is taking notes). Remember to jot down your choice of salad (and dressings), choice of entrees with the sauces, etc.

Tip #4- Ask Questions-

This is your time to ask questions- here are a few questions we recommend.

General Questions:

If you have any questions on their packages- this is the time to ask.
When is the final count due? How do last minute guest additions work? What if someone cancels and can’t make the wedding last minute?
When is the final payment due?

Cocktail Hour- **Most often caterers and venues do not offer tastings of the Hors d’Oeuvres. However, this is still a good time to ask questions about it.

How many pieces (per person) will be served during cocktail hour?
Do you ever run out of food or have suggestions on how to ensure there's enough for everyone?

We suggest 2 Hot Hors d’Oeuvres and 1-2 Cold.

Ex. Hot- Beef Slider, Coconut Shrimp, Cold- Bruschetta, Cheese & Crackers

Dinner- Make sure the caterer knows of any preferences and/or allergies you might have, right away.

What type of service (plated, synchronized or buffet) do you feel your venue (or caterer) does best?
If we want to customize an item, is there an additional cost?
How are your wait staff dressed? How many will be working that evening?

For Plated-

Do you require individual seating cards with meal choices or can we group by couple?
For seating cards: do you have a preference of look and style for the best service possible?
Do you offer Vegan or Vegetarian (specialty meals) and how do we tell you who they are and where they are sitting?

For Buffet-

Do you ever run out of food?
How long will the process take for guests to go through the buffet? Are the items served or do guests serve themselves?
What if we have a vegan or vegetarian request?
How are kids' meals served?

Tip #5- Bar Suggestions

If allowed with your venue, we suggest a hosted bar (middle shelf) for the first 3 hours of your reception. Then go to a bar on “consumption” for the last couple hours.

A way to take “pressure” off of the bar when cocktail hour first begins is to tray pass a signature drink. Ask the venue if they offer this at no additional cost and if they suggest a type of beverage to be tray passed.

What are my bar choices for liquor? Beer? Wine? *If we want somethingspecific can we request it?
Do you offer shots if my guests want to order one?
How many bartenders & barbacks will be working the wedding?
If we want to add special straws or garnish to drinks, can we provide it?

Tip #6- Setup

We will work with you on the particular setup but please make sure you know-

What linens (color and are they floor length) are offered?
What napkins (color options?) are offered?
What the chairs look like and are offered?
What does the overall table setup look like?

After the tasting-

Send a full email to your planner with your meal choices, decisions and left over questions. We will follow up with the venue for a copy of the Banquet Order and Layout. Please let us know if there are any outstanding questions or decisions that are needed.

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Jamison Lopez 8/6/21 Jamison Lopez 8/6/21

Top 5 Honeymoon Locations

I love to travel. So, I don’t need much excuse but when my Couples tell me of their Honeymoon plans, I always get excited. After all of the planning and dreaming of your big day, it's nice to get away and really kick off your life together on vacation. Here are my top 5 favorite places to Honeymoon after your big day (in no particular order).

Croatia:

I had the fortunate opportunity to visit Croatia for a day when I was on a Cruise and it has always left an imprint on my heart. I talk about the experience often and find it to be an incredible place to experience for your Honeymoon! For those who like a little adventure, good food, nightlife and some of the best wines in the world, Croatia is for you!

**Make sure to visit Dubrovnik and walk the walls. A city built within a castle, these 5 miles of walls are probably the most breathtaking experience I’ve ever had! Not to mention the people are extremely friendly. We had asked a bus driver for a good dinner spot and not only did he recommend an incredible spot right on the beach but stopped by to see how we liked the place!

For more on Croatia - I love this blog- https://www.earthtrekkers.com/11-must-have-experiences-dubrovnik-croatia/

Hawaii:

For those looking for a mix of relaxation, romance and adventure. Hawaii never disappoints. I’m a big fan of Oahu, while there are many islands to choose from, Oahu has always been my favorite due to the amount of sights to see. I highly recommend renting a vehicle (EARLY and in advance) and exploring the North Shore; make sure to stop by the Dole Plantation on your way.

Monterey:

Looking to escape for a few days for your Honeymoon within California? Check out the https://www.thesanctuarybeachresort.com/ Spend a few nights at the Sanctuary Beach Resort in your private luxury bungalow and private beach access. Book a spa experience for two while you're there for ultimate relaxation.

Mexico:

Cancun is one of my favorite destinations for a vacation. I highly recommend the Royalton Hotel in Cancun on the Hideaway side (which is Adults only). From day adventure excursions to Tulum and swimming in a cenotes to lounging by the pool. Travel tip: make sure to have all of your transportation documents available and clear before getting off the plane. The Cancun airport can be a little chaotic, so knowing which bus or transportation company you’ve booked, will help it feel less stressful.

London:

Photo by Max van den Oetelaar on Unsplash

Why not tackle a bucket list spot and take a memorable vacation to London? For a European excursion, visit London where there are endless things to do and see from museums to royal living, this will prove to be an incredible and unforgettable experience. You can even hop to spots in Europe that are close by to make the most of your trip whilst in the country!

Get excited for the ultimate relaxation & pure bliss of your Honeymoon!

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Jamison Lopez 7/30/21 Jamison Lopez 7/30/21

Create the PERFECT Wedding Website

YOU need a Wedding Website! Ditch the formal cards and have guests RSVP through the website instead. While this does break tradition a bit, it does offer an easier process for my Couples as they collect the RSVP information.

As a Wedding Planner, I’m often asked what information and details should be included on your Wedding Website. Typically, I break the website into 2 parts depending on the timeframe of their big day.

First version of the site: Save The Date-

When your “save the date” goes out, you want to ensure you have your website up and running (minimal information is ok!)

Both your first and last name
A Photo of both of you from your engagement session
Your Wedding Date
Your Venue
Hotel Block information or local hotels **this is to ensure they can book a room early at a reasonable rate.

Remember to add the website and a password for extra exclusivity onto your “Save The Date” cards!

Second version: The Formal Invite-

When sending out your formal invitations, have everything completed on your website. The more information you can offer your guests, the less questions you’ll receive! Along with the above (First Version), I’d be sure to include-

Your Love Story + additional photos of you two throughout your relationship. Maybe include your favorite trip, favorite meal to cook together, how you met… any fun, light hearted details that make the two of you better together!
Brief Wedding Day Timeline: Offer a 30 minute buffer from the Invitation time to the Wedding Ceremony start time. Example: (Start time on the invite & website will say 4:00pm, even though the actual start time would be 4:30pm
Wedding Party Introductions: Have fun with this! Post past-pictures of your wedding party and brief stories of how you got to know each other. Share who’s side they will be standing on and any additional details that will make those in your party feel extra special.
Travel and Hotel Accommodations: Depending on how much travel will be needed, provide as much detail as possible. (include transportation, parking, hotel block options, airport info, etc.) Again, the more details, the better!
FAQ Section (all the basic questions that might pop up):
- Can they include a plus-one?
- Are kids invited?
- Attire requirements **YES, always have this listed for those who might ask! Black Tie, Formal, Wedding Casual, etc. Remember to remind guests if they should not wear heels (due to sand or walkways and if they should bring a jacket for cooler weather).
- Any mask or safety requirements?
Ability to RSVP and chose their meal: Most venues require a “meal choice” for each person (not by Couple).
Remember some guests may not want/or are unable to RSVP online, so we always suggest another RSVP option.
- Tip: If you’re not sure what the meal option will be, go with a basic description (ex. Beef, Chicken, Fish or Vegetarian), instead of describing the overall dish. Also, make sure you list dietary restrictions or allergies!
Registry: We recommend selecting two physical stores (where guests can purchase items) and one monetary registry such as Honeyfund or Joy.
- Most website creators like JOY offer a registry you can create directly with them. A small fee is taken from every digital gift.

Don’t

Include exclusive events in your wedding website- unless it’s viewable ONLY by those who are invited. (Joy is currently working on this option)

For example: For the rehearsal dinner, invite the specific people to exclusive events (events not everyone is invited to) in person or with an additional invitation card, not through the website.

Do

Capture email and phone numbers!

After COVID one thing we have learned that it is important to make sure you’re able to contact your guests easily. By capturing everyone’s email addresses and phone number, you’re able to send them a quick email and/or text, should that ever be needed.

Overall, have fun with your website! We always recommend tying the aesthetic + style of your website in with the overall look and feel of your wedding day! But feel free to add a little sense of humor and fun into your site!

Here are my top 3 favorite website creators-

Joy- https://withjoy.com/

The Knot- https://www.theknot.com/content/creative-wedding-websites

Zola- https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard/wedding-website?question=NAME

Best of luck to all you engaged couples!

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Jamison Lopez 7/16/21 Jamison Lopez 7/16/21

Wedding Poses that WON'T Make Your Groom Uncomfortable

Most grooms don’t generally ENJOY taking wedding photos, that’s a fact. Generally, I get a little stressed when I see the Groom taking photos and can tell he is uncomfortable. So, when I work with a photographer who is not only quick at capturing the perfect shot, but can also make the Groom and his Wedding Party have FUN, I feel happy.

Your Groom just wants to enjoy themselves and not feel like they need to be a GQ model all day. Show your photographer THESE images and I gurantee they will capture great moments, without the corny vibes.

The Relaxed Walk

(1)Jessica Lynn Photography, (2)Lisa Lorene Photography

Groom Fixing His Clothes/Jacket-

(1)Jessica Lynn Photography, (2)Claudia Hurtarte Photography, (3,4)Judy & Gavin Photography, (5)DeLauras Photography

Friends Relaxing-

(1) PinkBox Films, (2)Jessica Lynn Photography, (3)Judy and Gavin Photography

Groom Prep-

(1)Judy and Gavin Photography, (2)Jessica Lynn Photography, (3)Claudia Hurtarte Photography

Formal with a relaxed vibe-

(1)Jessica Lynn Photography, (2)Judy and Gavin Photography, (3)Kate Van Amringe Photography

Being Silly-

(1)Kate Van Amringe Photography, (2)Judy and Gavin Photography, (3)Michael Anthony Photography, (4)Studio 7 Photo, (5)Rebecca Theresa Photography, (6,7)Jessica Lynn Photography

Cool Guy-

(1,2)Jessica Lynn Photography, (3)Kate Van Amringe Photography, (4,5)Judy and Gavin Photography

Sock Photos-

(1)Kennedy Graham Photography, (2)Judy and Gavin Photography

Back Turned-

And that’s all of them! Here’s where you can also find all of these photographers:

Lisa Lorene Photography- https://lisalorenephotography.zenfolio.com/
Pink Box Films- https://www.pinkboxphotography.com/
Kennedy Graham Photography- https://www.facebook.com/kennedygrahamphotography/
Judy and Gavin Photography- https://www.judyandgavin.com/
Jessica Lynn Photography- https://jessicalynn-photo.com/
Kate Van Amringe Photography- https://katevanamringe.com/
Rebecca Theresa Photography- http://rebeccatheresa.com/
The DeLauras Photography- https://www.thedelauras.com/

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Jamison Lopez 7/9/21 Jamison Lopez 7/9/21

So You’re a Bridesmaid, Now What?

This got me thinking, what are the Do’s and Don’ts of being a Bridesmaid? If you’re a newly engaged bride, a bridesmaid, or hoping to be a bridesmaid or have them in the future, you are going to want to check this out!

When saying “Yes” to the Bridesmaid role… know that it will not only be a time commitment, but also a financial one. Asking someone to be in their Wedding Party is an honor, so don’t take the responsibility lightly and know that no matter where you are standing, your role is very important to them.

I’ve seen my share of Wedding Party “types” in the last 20 years of planning weddings. From small to large, and mellow to rowdy, the group is almost always a direct reflection of the Couple. I have also had the opportunity to be in a couple weddings of my closest friends, but recently I was speaking to my Sister who is a bridesmaid at her Best Friend’s Wedding, this upcoming year. The question came up, “Now that I’m a Bridesmaid, what do I do?”

What Your Role Will Include:

Attend important wedding functions, such as; the engagement party, Bach party, dress selection or fitting, shower, rehearsal dinner, after wedding brunch. Etc.
Help plan and put on the Bach party/weekend activities. This includes making sure there are games, decor, reservations, transportation, etc.
Help setup and cleanup of the bridal shower. While often a family member will throw the Shower, the Wedding Party will offer their time to help ensure it goes smoothly.
While not always required, you may be asked to give a speech at the wedding or rehearsal dinner.
Plan the night before the wedding day and after the rehearsal dinner. Typically a mellow option like mud masks and a movie, but remember things like snacks, drinks and spa items are important.
Assist in the organization of the wedding morning. Remember items like mimosas, snacks, etc.
Be there for the Couple during the process emotionally and physically when needed.
Attend the Rehearsal which typically is during the week day at an odd hour. So, if you work full time, make sure your work knows you might need extra time for this responsibility. (remember to be on time or early!)

It’s important that you are there for the Couple to ensure they feel pampered and treated special at each event. After all, this is their wedding!

Hair and Makeup Note: One of the biggest places of stress for my Bride’s is organizing the Hair and Makeup situation. If you plan to have both your Hair and Makeup done by the morning of the Wedding, make sure the Bride knows this early in the planning. Also, note- for larger Wedding Parties- early call times to start Hair and Makeup is necessary. If you are given your time for Hair and Makeup (no matter how early) don’t complain and be on time for it! By even starting 5 minutes late, you will cause an issue with the overall timeline!

What Are Items You Can Expect to Pay For?:

The dress or suit and all the accessories (shoes, spanx, etc)
Your portion + part of the Bride or Grooms hotel/airfare/transport for the Bach party/weekend. Plus fun decor items.
A gift at the shower.
Hair and Makeup the day of the wedding plus tip!
Hotel and transportation the night of the wedding.
A gift on the wedding day.

As I said before, being a part of the wedding is a special honor & responsibility, so there are big things you should avoid doing as a bridesmaid as well...

What NOT to do:

Say yes and then pull out or change your mind.
Say yes without understanding the costs and responsibilities associated.
Complaining about anything. This includes the dress, another wedding party member or the overall experience, etc.
Forget it’s about the couple first and foremost.
Overly drink at any function so you’re the one who needs assistance.
Go missing during photos.
Show up late for your hair and makeup (morning of the Wedding).
Complain about your hair and makeup start time.

Are you the maid or matron of honor? Along with the above, here are a few extra responsibilities you’ll be asked to perform.

Maid/Matron of Honor Duties:

Ensuring the Wedding Party is in the loop on all activities.
Typically the MOH will ensure everyone attending the Bachelorette weekend or other activities shares the costs associated and covers the Bride’s portion. The MOH usually will organize the money and ensure every reservation, payment, etc is paid.
Being the Bride’s right hand person, the ENTIRE event.
Prepare and give a speech.
Making sure the entire Wedding Party gets to know each other and is having a good time.

Overall, being a part of the wedding party can be SO much fun, but don’t forget the responsibility of being one! And to the bride, if someone kindly declines the offer of being a bridesmaid, it’s totally okay and you can still be friends.

Know any new bridesmaids or brides-to-be? Share this blog with them so that they can learn all about the Bridesmaid Role! And check out + get inspiration from all of the amazing bridesmaid & groomsmen parties Jamison Events has worked with on Pinterest.

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Jamison Lopez 7/2/21 Jamison Lopez 7/2/21

Where to Start When Planning Your Wedding

Being newly engaged is exciting, fun, but also a bit overwhelming. If you’ve never planned a Wedding before, you’re probably wondering, where should I START? While most Couples have a general idea of what they’d like to do for their big day, figuring out how to make that dream a reality can be difficult. Here are some tips to help you start your planning off in the right direction:

Step 1: Start Off Slow

In the excitement & thrill of being engaged, oftentimes Couples will jump the gun (so to speak) and dive in all at once. For example, this could be creating & asking the Wedding Party, jumping into venue tours and spending hours combing through Pinterest, pinning every photo.

Let me tell you, THIS is where stress & overwhelm will eventually set in. By slowing the process a little, you’re able to weigh many options to ensure you’re making the best decisions for the two of you.

PS! I never recommend asking your Wedding Party until you officially have booked your venue, have your date set and budget in place. Remember, a larger Wedding Party means more money for both you and those you are asking; so be thoughtful in the responsibilities you are asking of them.

Step 2: Hire a Wedding Planner

So, I’m biased on this, but THIS is where us Wedding Planners shine. First of all, it’s never too late to hire a Wedding Planner… Well maybe the morning of might be a little too late, but by hiring an experienced Wedding Planner early, they will do the following:

Help you narrow down your wants vs. your needs
Find the perfect venue
Create a budget and Help you save money & stretch your budget as you book potential vendors
Guide you through the overall process to ensure your wedding day is not only smooth, but personalized to the two of you.

Step 3: Put it On Paper

It’s always fun to plan your dream wedding, until you start to see the costs add up. The fact is, you have a budget and that budget needs to be realistic. Putting it on paper means-

What you can realistically afford
What style/aesthetic of the Wedding you’d like to have
How many guests you will be expecting

This will help you really narrow down the types of venues and vendors you’ll be able to hire.

Step 4: Venue Search

You can find the Top 10 Tips for Finding Your Ideal Venue in an earlier Blog post! This is a great resource for when you’re ready to start searching!

Step 5: Hire Your Main Vendors

Especially right now, it’s a busy time for the Wedding Industry. Hiring your major Wedding Vendors early will be key. While there is no real order you MUST hire your vendors in, by prioritizing your Main Vendors first, you’re ensuring you will be able to find the perfect fit.

I recommend hiring in this order:

Wedding Planner
Venue
Catering (if not included with the venue)
Photographer
DJ or Band
Invitations/Stationary (Save the Dates into Invitations)
Major Rentals (if not included with the venue)
Florals
Videographer (this might be earlier in the process if it’s a must-have for you!)
Cake and Desserts
Fun added bonuses such as Photobooth, Favors, Attire, etc.

Remember! If you are Wedding Dress Shopping this should start 10 months prior and should be purchased no later than 6 months prior for alterations and ordering.

Vendor Comparison Tip:

I always recommend speaking with 3 vendors at a time and having them write up a proposal for comparison. See how you feel about their costs, overall personality and experience level. Once you’ve chosen a vendor to hire, remember to be kind to those you have decided not to go with and send them a Thank You decline letter. Ghosting or not responding often happens in the industry and a simple “thank you but we’ve gone a different route”, is always appreciated!

And there you have it!

5 simple steps to get your wedding planning started. From being in this industry for 20 years, I know that starting the wedding planning process isn’t always easy, but I think these will absolutely get you started. And I am always available to reach out to via email: jamison@jamisonevents.com

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Jamison Lopez 6/25/21 Jamison Lopez 6/25/21

TOP Reasons WHY Your Wedding DJ is Important!

Have you ever wondered…is your wedding DJ really that important? I truly feel that your DJ (or band) is one of the most important aspects to your Wedding Day and can often be overlooked due to budget restraints. It’s VERY important to hire someone who is professional, but reputable.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, I get to work with plenty of really great wedding DJs of all different styles. Each DJ creates a unique experience, so it is important that you find the one who’s right for you!

Remember the Adam Sandler movie called the Wedding Singer?

Laugh all you want now, but “Singing” Wedding DJs were a POPULAR hire when I helped out within my Parents’ Bridal Show Company back in the day. A mix of band and DJ with a well sung MC/Emcee. It makes me giggle now because I know in the future, as most things do, it will be on trend again!!

AND NOW, you’ve arrived, at The TOP Reasons Why Your DJ is Important (from the eyes of a Wedding Planner):

Number One: Hiring a professional is key!

First, a professional ensures that the night stays on time. You need to make sure your DJ can stick to a timeline, but also make adjustments when & if small situations arise!
Secondly, having a professional DJ makes sure every needed announcement is relayed and names are read & pronounced properly. They will remind guests to put out their seating card with their meal choice for catering, announce everyone in your Wedding Parties names, properly announcing the wedding party for the Grand Entrance, etc.
Thirdly, a professional DJ will ensure the proper music is played at the right time. Can you imagine having the wrong First Dance song play...yikes!
Fourth, a professional DJ will have high quality music & sound. They should ensure you don’t hear that painful scratch from the speaker or any crackles.
Fifth, they will account for making sure there is enough electrical power at the venue and set this system up themselves. DJ’s who KNOW their stuff, ensure they have the proper amount of power & understand the venue prior to your Big Day.
Lastly, they will make sure the VIBE is met and the night stays FUN! A professional will know when to play a dance song and when to slow the night down, all while making sure everyone is having a great time. No awkward lulls please!

When all else fails, this is the whole goal: that the wedding night is enjoyable for everyone!

Number Two: There’s a difference between a DJ, an MC/Emcee and a Wedding DJ.

What is a DJ?:

When I think of a DJ, I think of someone who scratches records and is music oriented. Unless you want your Wedding to have a “Club Vibe” from beginning to end…you need someone who knows the difference between playing “Shots Shots Shots” and Frank Sinatra. A really good DJ will be able to transition the songs with no gap in the music, to keep the party going!

What is an MC/Emcee?:

The MC is important because this is the person’s voice you’re listening to all night long. Often a DJ will either be both the DJ and MC or it will be a team. You want your MC/Emcee to be fun without being corny and on top of the night.

What is a Wedding DJ?:

A professional who typically MC’s the night too. Often there will be a team, one who runs the music and one who is on the mic. A Wedding DJ will ensure the night runs smoothly and they also know the right music to play at the important moments.

**Side Story: I’ve worked with Wedding DJs who have been so overly into having guests on the dance floor, they’ve forgotten about the cake cutting. Or the opposite⎼had a great dance set going, and then lost everyone to a bad song transition.**

DJ HORROR Stories (Yikes!)

- One time, I worked a Wedding with a DJ who was so afraid to be on the mic, I ended up emceeing the night. (NOT my favorite thing to do, but important to keep the night going)

- Another time, I worked a Wedding where the DJ showed up with a hat on & flip flops, with NO change of clothes…

- Can’t forget about the DJ who I had to ask to stop drinking at the Bar and play the Grand Entrance song.

- And lastly, I’ve worked a Wedding with a DJ who had the BIGGEST setup that the system kept blowing the power all. night. long.

Number Three: Questions YOU (or your wedding planner) needs to be asking before hiring your DJ.

How are their reviews?
Ask for a video to see how they perform.
Are they recommended by your fellow vendors?
Do they offer wireless mics for the Ceremony? How many?
How many sets of speakers do they offer?
Consider if they will work well with your other vendors.
Does your venue have a noise requirement? Can the DJ adhere to the rules?
Does your DJ understand your vibe? Do you like THIER personality too?
Are they reasonably priced for your budget? (not too low, not too high)
Have they worked at your venue before?
Are they professional, from email responses to attire? Consider that they fit YOUR needs, not the other way around.

Important Last Notes!

**Make sure you give a list of your favorite songs AND your dislike songs prior to your Wedding day. Ex. Do you love Disney music and hate EDC? Your DJ needs to know that!**