weddings and special events and private estates: What is Hot and What is Not, Plus Tips Every Couple Should Know

Work has been a little busy, so I am somewhat late with this post. We are very excited about this summer and the wonderful clients whom we have the opportunity to work with on their events.

When there is time, I love getting together with other planners to swap event stories (without using client names, of course).

Ask most event planners to name their top tips and there is probably a story that goes along each one.

Here are my top five this time around, in descending order -

5. Choose your bridal party wisely and try not to focus on balancing both sides of the party equally. Surround yourself with sincere friends, who will have your back on one of the most important days of your life. The wrong person or persons can cause unnecessary stress.

4. If you decide to display family photos at your wedding, please use discretion on which photos guests will see, especially if a divorce has occurred. One of our clients used a wedding photo of her parents, and the guests repeatedly asked the second wife if it was she in the photo.

3. Try and stay away from being too trendy. What seems really hot right now will most likely look dated in a few years.

2. Create a budget and spend what you can afford. There are so many creative ways to create a beautiful event, and it is not necessary to go into debt trying to do it.

1. When things get stressful (try not to inundate yourself with all of the wedding web sites and magazines), remind yourself why you are getting married and focus on creating the style and sentiments which reflect you and your fiancé (within your budget, of course).

Bonus tip - If it sounds too good to be true, check it out because it probably is too good to be true.

Estate Pick of the Week - 9662 Malibu

Romantic estate with beautiful gardens and ocean view.