Being a wedding planner, I’ve noticed that many engaged couples are not sure how to begin the wedding planning process.
A few years ago, I planned to host an educational workshop that would give couples the necessary tools and information to plan their special day.
Whether they hired a planner, or elected to plan their celebration themselves, this workshop would give them useful information.
However, due to the health of a family member, my plans were temporarily set-aside.
Well, the idea stayed with me and in October 2008, I started to share my ideas. I didn’t even think about the economy. All I wanted to do was to educate and help engaged couples make their day special. And being that I’m a certified wedding planner and instructor, I thought this would be a piece of cake.
In November, I approached the wedding director at the Oceano Hotel and Spa in Half Moon Bay with my idea. They thought it was a great concept and said “yes” to hosting the event. However, when we met a few weeks later, they had an even better idea. Why not a bridal faire? What a project!! So, we set the date for March 1, 2009.
With the holidays and the flu, we didn’t get around to the planning the event until the first week in January. Normally to plan an event of this magnitude, one would have to start 10-12 months out. What was I thinking about: planning an event of this size in two months!! I must be nuts!! But with such great help and support from the Oceano Hotel things just started to happen. Bay Area wedding professionals such as Orna Maymon of Ornamento, Cecile Gady of Cakeworks were excited about the event and easily said “yes” to participating in the faire. Other event experts, such as photographer, Monica Michelle, Kathy Goodman of Well Rehersed, Jasmine Wang of Jasmine Wang Photography, Floramoor Studios, Hartman Studios and Blue Water Rentals all added to the success of the event.
It was a very rainy day, which we expected. However, we were unsure, if anyone would brave the wind, rain and Highway 92. However, they did! More than 300 guests moved along the hallways, guest rooms and grand ballroom of the hotel.
The day was filled with entertainment, education, fun and fashion. Guests were treated to chamapgne as they oohed and ah’d the latest bridal fashions from Maggie Sottero.
Wedding photographer, Brian Orlov made sure to capture the energy of this exciting and elegant event, thus allowing me to share it with you.
Thanks to the wedding and events director, Nancy Nehran and Jennifer Pickart and their great staff-the event was a big success.
