55. What Wedding Planners Wish You Knew with Erica Irwin

We are thrilled to have the opportunity to sit down with Erica Irwin and dive into the wonderful world of wedding planning. Planning a wedding is exciting and filled with anticipation, dreams, and the thrill of bringing your vision to life. As we embark on this journey together, let's explore the process of deciding on a wedding planner from the client's perspective as well as what vendors can do to have a great experience with a planner.

When couples first step into the realm of wedding planning, they often have a myriad of thoughts and emotions swirling around. One of the most common questions that arise is, "When and where should we get married?" It's a profound question that may not always have a straightforward answer, especially once the planning process begins. However, what truly matters is the journey itself and the moments shared along the way.

As a wedding planner, Erica's goal is to create an environment where couples feel welcomed and supported right from the start. She loves nothing more than sitting down with them for that initial conversation, where we can discuss their vision, budget, guest count, and preferred location. It's like the beginning of a beautiful friendship, where trust and understanding gradually blossom.

One aspect of wedding planning that Erica particularly enjoy is helping couples explore different venues and finding the perfect setting for their special day. Whether it's a charming venue in Ottawa or a picturesque location outside the city, every couple has a unique vision that deserves to be brought to life.

The concept of a "wedding weekend" is one that isn't talked about often but shouldn't be overlooked as it encapsulates the idea that a wedding is not just a single day but a celebration that extends over multiple days, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

One of the challenges that couples often face is navigating the vast array of options available for decorations, flowers, and other elements of their wedding day. With the rise of platforms like Pinterest, it's easy to get carried away with extravagant ideas that may not be feasible within the confines of a budget. As a planner, Erica strives to provide honest guidance and help couples make informed decisions that align with their vision and financial constraints.

Another aspect of wedding planning that she finds fascinating is the dynamic between couples and vendors. It's essential for vendors to understand the importance of collaboration and communication throughout the planning process. From photographers and florists to caterers and DJs, each vendor plays a vital role in bringing the couple's vision to life.

When it comes to working with vendors, transparency and open communication are key. Couples should feel empowered to express their preferences and concerns, knowing that their voices will be heard and respected. Similarly, vendors should strive to foster a collaborative environment where everyone works together seamlessly to create a memorable experience for the couple and their guests.

As the wedding day approaches, tensions may run high, and unexpected challenges may arise. However, it's essential to focus on the bigger picture and remember what truly matters – celebrating love and creating lasting memories with loved ones. By staying organized, adaptable, and supportive, we can navigate any hurdles that come our way and ensure that the wedding day unfolds seamlessly.

Erica explains the most rewarding part of being a wedding planner is witnessing the joy and happiness of the couple as they exchange vows and embark on a new chapter together. It's a privilege to be a part of such a significant milestone in their lives and to play a role in making their dreams a reality.

As we embark on this journey together, let's embrace the excitement, overcome challenges with grace, and celebrate the love that brings us all together. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!