A Celebration of Life!!

Tina and Bob

All the Best had the privilege of working with Tina and Bob while they were planning their September 2009 wedding.  They had been dating for quite some time and they were both excited to be married.  They chose a site on the beach because the ocean is very special to both of them.  They are both merchant marine captains whose fathers were both merchant marine captains.

Shortly after we started working together Tina told me that Bob had been diagnosed with cancer.  In no way did this slow either of them down – full speed ahead went the planning!  We chose a venue and they found a church nearby.  Photographer, DJ, and florist were chosen while Tina was on leave from her ship.  When she was in captain mode we communicated by e-mail and cell phone.  Bob’s treatment was on going and when one therapy didn’t work Tina researched and found others.

It was so easy and fun to work with them.   Tina knew exactly what she did and did not want.   She chose carnations for most of their flowers because Bob liked them.  The DJ went out of his way to find a particular sailing song that while solemn was one they both liked.

Their love and faith in each other never waivered and Tina always had something positive to say.  Bob even planned his therapy around the wedding so he would feel as well as possible on the big day.  Family and friends traveled from near and far in order to celebrate with the happy couple!  As a testament to his sense of humor Bob had a “NIC (not under command)” symbol on the sole of his shoe that all could see when he knelt during the ceremony.  At the end of the day both bride and groom were very happy with the way their day had gone.  We at All the Best were proud to have been a part of it all.

Tina called yesterday to tell me that Bob had passed away on Thursday after a 3 year battle with cancer.  She also told me to tell the photographer that she would be in touch to order her wedding album and would be using some of the proofs at his memorial.  She and Bob had picked out the pictures.  I am  devastated.  I can only imagine how Tina feels.  They were married for just about 5 1/2 months.

So the next bride who gets upset because something ridiculously small happened to cause her day not to be perfect will hear the story of Tina and Bob.  A life together cut short because of a deadly disease that no amount of planning or detailed lists could make perfect.

Tina seemed to be at peace knowing that Bob was not suffering any more.  My heart goes out to her and the members of Bob’s family.  He was a great guy who loved Tina and will be missed by all who knew him.

Let’s Go Shopping!!

I have a client who bought her dress, accessories, and bridesmaids dresses from a nationally known wedding dress shop.   I am working with her to try to return an accessory item that she purchased months ago that turns out to be too big for her to use.   No one at the shop gave her any advice as to what might be a good fit for her – she picked everything out, paid for it and walked out of the store.  After striking out with the store manager and a corporate customer service manager I am now waiting to hear from the district manager.

Apparently “no” and “can’t” are big words in their vocabulary.  No they can’t take back the item since it was purchased months ago.  No they can’t take back the item – it’s been discontinued.  No they can’t take back the item – the sales receipt is stamped all sales are final.  No they can’t issue a store credit – if they do it for me what will they do for everyone else that they say “no” to everyday???

I really don’t care what they can’t do for anyone else – my concern is for my client.  IMHO it’s not that they “can’t” do it – policy, shmolicy – it’s that they won’t do it.  To me the answer is really a no brainer – issue some kind of credit so she can get something else and not go to another store (and have her wedding planner blog to the world about the poor customer service!).

I had a consultation the other day with a lovely bride who is in the process of looking for her wedding dress.  She had already been to one of my favorite local salons (and this one I will name) – The Barefoot Bride in Fair Haven, NJ.   She was hesitant to buy the dress and thought she would look at other shops.  The friend that was with her told her – “you are not going to find service like that at another shop.  Trust me!”  Mayra has helped dress a few of my brides and their wedding parties.  She and her staff go out of their way to provide the kind of service that brides want (and deserve). You would think that because of their location that their prices are high.  I can assure you that have a wide range of price points – I had one bride who paid $800 for her dress several years ago.  It was a gorgeous beaded strapless dress that fit her perfectly – she looked so beautiful in it!

The bride’s wedding dress sets the tone for the wedding.  It’s one of the most important choices she will make for her wedding day.  Why shop at a place whose policy includes “no we can’t” instead of “of course we can” or “we’ll do our best to get that done for you?”  Do your research – ask your friends where they got their dress and would they go back there again; read the message boards online; ask your wedding planner; check with the local Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce.  Make an appointment, see how they treat you.  If you don’t like it – move on!  There are plenty of other shops out there with the “can do” attitude!  Find the one that’s right for you.

Is it Better in the Bahamas?

I have been a Certified Sandals Specialist since 2005, however, I had never actually been to a Sandals property.  When the offer came to update my certification at the Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort I jumped at the chance.  Three days in the Caribbean at an all-inclusive resort; no cell phone, no computer.  I couldn’t wait to go!

My previous vacation trips to the Bahamas had been “OK” experiences so I was prepared for this trip to be just OK as well.  Having been a traveler when I had a corporate job and having been on my share of vacations I know not to get too excited before I reach my destination as you never know what you’re going to find at a place you’ve never been.

Let me tell you why this trip to Sandals Royal Bahamian was more than just OK and why I’ll be renewing my Sandals certification at a different resort each year!

After a 45 minute flight from Miami I arrived at the airport in Nassau (HINT:  You’ll need a passport.  Allow plenty of time to apply for a new one or to update the one you already have).  I went through Immigration (the flight attendants will give you a form) then found the Sandals desk on the baggage claim level (HINT:  keep the page they give you in a safe place – there’s a safe in your room – you’ll need it when you leave).  At the desk I was greeted by 3 (count them 3) Sandals representatives who told me where to go to wait for the shuttle that would take me to the resort.  A group gathered to wait for the shuttle which arrived as promised; we got on, waited a few minutes for stragglers, then off we went.  The driver was like a tour guide along the way showing us places of interest during the 15 minute drive.  They drive on the opposite side in the Bahamas so don’t freak out!

When we got to the resort we were greeted by a bell captain who took our names and indicted where each of us should go for registration (there might be a colored dot on your luggage tag to help with that process).  Once on site you don’t touch your luggage – it will be brought to your room once it’s ready.  (HINT:  Bring a carry on with your bathing suits, hats, and suntan products <3 oz or smaller> or get them out of your suitcase before you go to registration – if you’re room is not ready they have places to get changed so you can relax while you’re waiting).  A lovely woman offering a glasses of champagne or rum punch came around seconds later.  About the same time

Your butler can arrange a romantic dinner on your private balcony!

we arrived a Rolls Royce pulled up with newlyweds who were smiling from ear to ear!  The Mercedes and its well dressed driver were just sitting there waiting to run to the airport. (HINT:  The Rolls Royce and Mercedes are available to Butler Service level guests.  While expensive – this level of service comes with lots of perks including your own private butler, dinners at Gordon’s on the Pier, and 24 hour room service).

While at the airport I was VERY fortunate to meet Kay – a Sandals booking agent based in Miami.  She couldn’t have been nicer and gave me a complete run down of the property before we arrived.  I followed her like a puppy!

She took me to lunch while we waited for our rooms to be ready (check in is usually at 3:00pm and we arrived at about 12:30pm).  She asked me where I’d like to eat as there are several choices.  I chose the Cassanova Buffet Restaurant over the Bella Napoli Pizzeria (where you can make your own pizza and eat it overlooking the beach) or the Royal Cafe (where you can get salads or grilled items).  Cassanova offered a wide variety of foods including a made to order pasta station and lots of fresh fruit.  Wait staff brings your beverages.

The 4 poster bed is very comfortable - turn down service includes his and her bathrobes

After lunch we went back to registration and our rooms were ready! As we walked over to The Windsor Building (vs The Manor Building or The Villas)  Kay started to explain to me about all the different types of rooms.  While I can’t tell you all of them (I’ll hook you up with her when you’re ready to book!) I can tell you that you want a Concierge level or higher room.  Concierge rooms come with a full bar (at no extra charge) and beautiful views.  My junior suite on the 5th floor was very spacious with a soaking tub in the bathroom, separate seating area, armoire with TV (most channels are based out of Miami) and great views of the pool and the ocean.  We were left on our own until our first group meeting at dinner in the Crystal Room later that evening.  Since I had a 6:00am flight out of Newark I was tired (and full) and took a nap!

We were a diverse group of ABC members from NJ, TN, LA, IN, FL and 3

Everyone who attended the training was a member of the ABC.

wedding planners from the Bahamas.  A nicer group of people you’ll never meet.  Dinner was delicious – the menu had been chosen for us and it did not disappoint.  Crab claws, shrimp, conch and oysters for an appetizer; steak and lobster tail for dinner; and bananas foster for dessert.  Wine service was continuous and I understand the Goombay Smash was a refreshing drink.  Our wait staff was very attentive and we could see that the dining room was full of happy couples.  (HINT:  Long pants and collared shirts are required for the men in some restaurants.  Ladies are expected to dress accordingly.   Always bring a sweater or shawl – the AC does get cranked up at times).

The next day started with breakfast back at Cassanova’s before our training session.  A fresh omelet/eggs to order station AND a French toast station along with the standards.  I was thrilled to find bagels (along with a toaster) and lox – one of my breakfast favorites to go along with my egg white and spinach omelet!

After training we took  a walking tour of the venue.

Main pool view from an oceanview room

While the Royal Bahamian Resort is a large property it doesn’t take long to walk to anywhere you need to go.  The gardens are lush and the main pool is huge with a swim up bar.  Comfortable lounge chairs are available as are  beach sized towels.  Some of the activities that are included: tennis, volleyball, a gym,  snorkeling, day time scuba diving, kayaks, Hobie Cat or Sunfish sailing, and aquatrykes.  The beach has recently been made larger (in response to guest input) and also has lounge chairs and umbrellas.

From the pier you can take a shuttle boat to Sandals Cay a private island that offers beaches on either side of the island, a restaurant (open several evenings for dining), and a zen garden and spa.

Speaking of food – there are 10 different places to eat at the resort including an authentic English Pub and Kimonos – a sushi and tepanyaki style Asian restaurant.

Listen to the ocean as you enjoy a his & her message on the pier.

Still need to ease the stress of your wedding away?  Try any of many services offered at the on-site Red Lane spa including free use of their steam room and spa pool.

Dinner for our group that evening was served out on the patio overlooking the ocean.  Again the menu was chosen for us but I’m not complaining!  Zucchini risotto with seared scallop, green salad with crumbled cheese and caramelized walnuts, champagne sorbet, rack of lamb and red snapper for the main course ending with fruited pound cake & wedding cake!

Check out and return to the airport was as stress free as my arrival (HINT: Put your suitcases in the hall the night before you leave if you have an early morning flight to avoid the 5:00am knock at the door).  My bag and the shuttle were waiting for me when I got to the entrance and it was an easy ride back to the airport for check in.  You’ll go through Immigrations again and then US customs before you leave the Bahamas so you don’t have to go through customs when you get home.

While on site I was surprised to see couples of all ages.  While there were many shiny new wedding rings there were also couples of varying ages such as a couple from Spain celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary with friends from England.

Destination weddings at a Sandals (or Beaches, or Royal Plantation, or Grand Pineapple) resort are available as are decor packages courtesy of their new partnership with Martha Stewart.

If you’re interested in booking your honeymoon at any Sandals resort you can do so on your own through the ATB website or call me!  I’ll ask you some questions and then hook you up with Kay who knows pretty much everything there is to know about every resort that Sandals offers (there are 12 Sandals resorts on 4 different islands and that doesn’t include the 3 other brands).  If you’re the parents of the bride or groom don’t you think you deserve a vacation after all the wedding hoopla is over??  Or how about a girls trip – there are BFF trips  or I can help you plan your own! (HINT: You need to be 18 or older to stay at any Sandals property.  The Beaches resorts  are for families with children)

Having been to the Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort for a very short time I can still truly say – “It IS better in the Bahamas!”

Blog, Blog, Blog

If you’ve ever received a postcard from All the Best Weddings & Celebrations or viewed one of our print ads you’ve seen this picture of a wedding cake with a bride and groom sitting on one of the layers with the phrase “Because planning your event should be a piece of cake!”

In trying to keep with the cake idea I’ve started the “bites and pieces” concept for the All the Best Wedding Blog.  It was almost “bytes” to go with the cyber aspect and it might change (all input here greatly appreciated) – stay tuned.

The postings on Bites and Pieces may expand upon those that I make on Facebook or Twitter or they may be something totally different. If you’re not an ATB Facebook fan – now’s the time to become one! I’ll be letting you know through the ATB Facebook Fan page when new a Bites and Pieces is posted.

So if you’ve been reading the ATB Wedding Blog all along – now you know why all the titles have changed and some of the postings are a little different from their original versions. If this is your first time to the blog WELCOME!! and don’t be a stranger. I’m always interested in your feedback and look forward to hearing from each and every one of you! So take a “bite” (read one or two postings) or eat the whole “piece” (read them all!).  I’m looking forward to hearing from you!!

It’s a Matter of Trust

Some of my clients don’t trust me.  What I mean is they don’t trust my expertise.  They have an idea in their head of what they want, when they want it and what it should cost. Sometimes there’s very little I can do to change their minds.

photo courtesy Storytale Wedding Photography

One of the biggest arguments I get is about transportation. When I started my own business the first company I signed on was a limo company that I had used when I had a corporate job.  They’re a little more expensive then other limo companies and, IMHO, worth every penny.  When I book them I don’t have to worry about anything.  I know their cars are immaculate, their drivers professional and their timing is spot on.  I get a discount which I share with my clients.  In 5 years I’ve had one complaint about a driver being a little cranky.

I had clients who decided at the last minute they wanted limo transportation for their wedding.  They thought the rates for my go to company were too high and found another company on their own.  While the final decision as to which vendors to use is always the clients I try to make sure they understand the consequences of choosing solely by price.  Their June wedding day was hot.  The air conditioning in the guys limo overheated on the way to the ceremony.  The drivers kept the cars idling during the ceremony to keep them cool and another one overheated.  The company only had one car to send as a replacement and it took over an hour for it to arrive.

Several years ago I had a client who only wanted the raw video footage from her wedding day.  Prep, ceremony, reception – nothing fancy, no music, no photo montage – just the video please.  She chose a company based solely on price.  I knew this company and begged her not to use them and gave her several other options – all were more expensive.  She went with her original choice and got her video within a week of the wedding.  She was very disappointed.  Some of the video was out of focus, most of it was grainy and the videographer didn’t get some of the footage she wanted.

I have quite a few options regarding floral professionals depending on (a) the budget and (b) the vision of the bride. Peonies are all over the bridal magazines.  What the magazines don’t tell you is that they have the shortest season of almost any flower.  A bride last year really wanted peonies in her bouquet for her August wedding.  While her floral designer and I did our best to dissuade her, she was insistent.  The designer was able to find a supplier who promised 6 stems for $250 (!).  When the flowers arrived they were in such poor condition that the florist couldn’t use them.

When putting together a timeline I work with all the professionals to make sure we get the most out of cocktail hour and 4 hour reception. A former client had it in her mind that things were going to be done in a certain order and there was no changing her mind.  She was 2 hours late for pictures and didn’t get to see any of her cocktail hour.  Her very expensive band barely had time to get everyone up and dancing because of the way she had truncated the schedule.  She almost missed the last dance because of the pictures she insisted on taking “under the moonlight”

The moral of the story is trust.  A qualified experienced planner will help you see through the mist and mirrors to decide which options are best for you.  Communication is key.  Managing your expectations helps too.  Champagne tastes on a beer budget are going to lead to disappointment on the big day which is something no one wants.  Listen to your professionals and communicate effectively so that there are no grey areas when it comes to the final product.  That’s how you get the happy ending!!

There Is No 2nd Chance to Make a 1st Impression

It’s bridal show season.  I’ve been going to venues that I’ve not been to before to familiarize myself with the property, their food, and their service. I also go to meet vendors that I may not have known about before.  Today I visited a property that was a good 45 minutes from my office.  I had heard good things about this place and wanted to see it for myself.  I set the address into my trusty GPS, filled up my tank with gasoline and off I went to be wowed!

The first thing that struck me as I approached the site from the main road was that there was no sign either indicating the venue or that there was a bridal show there that day (which is why I drove right by it even though the GPS kept telling me I had reached my destination).

After I turned around and pulled into the driveway I noticed a sign pointing to valet parking yet there were no valets to be found.  I parked my own car and walked to the front door.  As I walked into the lobby I felt like I was in the wrong place. There was no one to greet me at the door, no coat check, no guidance, no nothing.

I continued to walk through the wood paneled lobby with comfortable furniture and lit fireplace and found nothing but silence.  Finally someone with a name tag (I’m guessing she was a venue employee) appeared and gave me directions to my inquiry regarding the location of the bridal show.

Down a wide staircase and through a maze of halls following the plaques on the walls for the ballroom I finally found the area where the bridal show was being held.  The halls were packed with vendors to the point that it was difficult to move especially if you stopped in front of one of the tables to speak to the professional about their wares or services.  Seriously, did they really need to have 8 photographers there??  The bakery who supplies the wedding cakes for the venue was there with 3 mock ups but no cake samples.

The ballroom was beautiful and spacious and light poured through the windows.  One table was set as if for a wedding and the rest were bare except for tablecloth and one lonely votive candle.  The chef was behind the table where chafing dishes of ravioli and penne were available to sample.  The hallway included a table with cheese & crackers and crudite’.

The pasta in the ballroom was barely warm.  I caught a glimpse of two servers with passed hors d’oeurves of tiny stuffed mushrooms and spinach in phyllo dough.  They made one pass and then disappeared.  I never got to taste either so I couldn’t tell if they were freshly made or warmed up out of a box from COSTCO.

I left after being there for maybe 15 minutes. I found the door that I should have used to enter which took me outside and up a flight of stair to a pathway that went past the front door.

When I go to a venue I want to feel welcome and be impressed from the moment I pull into the parking lot until the moment I leave.  As a potential client of that venue you should want that too!

Can all of my issues be fixed?  Sure they can but IMHO they never should have been issues in the first place.  I’m glad I took that long drive today.  Now I can cross this site off my list as I’ll not be recommending them to any of my clients.