wedding resource guide
Forging Future Memories
Small touches, expert advice for making the occasion extra special
PHOTOS BY ASHLEY SUNDERLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY MARK BEUTLER
Planning the perfect wedding takes a certain amount of style and panache. It also takes paying attention to detail, a generous amount of flexibility and finding the right people to help put it all together. A wedding, after all, is more than just pictures of white rice frozen in the air: A couple’s wedding day is something they will remember ‘til death do them part. But what happens after the nuptials? The perfect reception and honeymoon require some planning, as well. We talked to a couple of local event planning pros in Oklahoma City, who share their thoughts on creating a memorable reception and honeymoon.
“There is no right or wrong way to plan a wedding,” says Brian Ferrell, proprietor of Factor 110 Events. “We work with couples to create a memorable ceremony or reception that works for them – their budget, their family, their expectations. We encourage the planners and couples we work with to create their own unique guest experience, to explore creative solutions within their budget and to incorporate a personal flair.” Ferrell’s company provides décor, linens, centerpieces, furniture, tents … anything needed to enhance the space where the wedding or reception takes place. “Our favorite receptions to produce incorporate elements that bring the bride and groom together; things that unite them as one,” Ferrell says. “Of course, it could also be two grooms or two brides who are getting married. We love hearing stories of how the couple met, what they enjoy doing together, favorite foods and interesting design styles. Then we take that information and weave it into the reception. It’s the small accents that make it all about them.” As the New Year begins, emerging trends for 2017 appear to be leaning more traditional, according to Kindt Steven Myers, owner of Kindt Events. “As with any industry, trends are cyclical,” Myers muses. “We are seeing more traditional ceremonies in churches and less outdoors.” Myers works with clients at all stages of the planning process. Typically he recommends planning at least 12-18 months in advance of the wedding date. “That is the preferred amount of time,” he explains, “but sometimes life calls for other plans. We have worked with clients who wanted to marry in as little as two weeks – and we were able to give them a spectacular and personal wedding ceremony and reception.” Any budget can be made to work, Myers added, and he does not necessarily recommend a couple begin their married life by going into debt for a wedding and reception. Another factor in today’s wedding industry is marriage equality, as more LGBT couples are tying the knot. “We are seeing a more welcoming atmosphere these days, and necessary open discussion among professionals who would be serving same-sex clients,” Myers says. “There really isn’t a difference in receptions, CHECK LIST but based on our experience Have fun! Enjoy the process, involve the family, and ask for we see same-sex clients often help. Make decisions together infusing more of their own and laugh along the way. personalities readily, where we Make it yours. Find ways to sometimes work harder to help make the experience unique our straight clients do the same. and a reflection of who you are as a couple. Let your It seems they are more steeped character be seen through the in tradition.” décor, entertainment, venue and food. So whether it’s a traditional church wedding or barefoot Don’t stress. If you are in the grass, both Myers and stressed about the planning, involve a planner or vendor. Ferrell agree that planning ahead, knowing what you want Make decisions and move on. Don’t second-guess yourself. and infusing a couple’s own There are too many details to personality will set the stage for worry about and no time to be a lifetime of happy memories. wishy-washy. JANUARY 2017 405 MAGAZINE
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