The Soiree Difference

de·sign

V. de·signed, de·sign·ing, de·signs

v.tr

  1. two
    1. To conceive or fashion in the mind; invent
    2. To formulate a plan for; devise
  2. To plan out in systematic, usually graphic form
  3. To create or contrive for a particular purpose or effect
  4. To have as a goal or purpose; intend.
  5. To create or execute in an artistic or highly skilled manner.
v.intr.
  1. To make or execute plans.
  2. To have a goal or purpose in mind.
  3. To create designs
(As excerpted from The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language)

What most people don't realize is that there is a difference between a wedding planner and a wedding designer. While both titles require organization and creativity, to be a wedding designer it takes much more. Look at the weddings in magazines and other popular publications- the whimsical aspects, elegant lighting, flawless presentation….all the tiny details are always accounted for. This is the work of a wedding designer.

To plan and coordinate a wedding is one thing, but to design and create an atmosphere is an entirely different thing. You have to listen to the couple- to their desires, vision, and their stories of how they got to this point- in order to make this wedding truly about them. You have to have the patience because no two weddings should ever be alike- each will come with their own foundation, vision and their own story. You have to have the perseverance, because each wedding will have its own unique obstacles and challenges. Finally, you have to have the passion. You have to love what you do, because when you love what you do, you do it better.

Though I've always been enraptured with the magic that surrounds a wedding, what I really love about my job are the couples I get to work with. I could play with color swatches, fluff dresses, and talk about flowers all day long (and I do!), but what I really get excited about at the end of the day is hearing each couple's story- their relationship, the quirks, the tears, their families…and ultimately being privileged to help bring that story, in its entirety, to life on their wedding day.

My approach to wedding planning is simple: you, as the bride, should be able to enjoy this time in your life to the fullest. And your wedding should fulfill every dream you've had since you were age 3 (and your guests should walk away talking about your wedding for years, if you ask me). Have fun planning your wedding, and leave the details to me and the fabulous team I work with. I'm so thrilled to be a part of your beautiful day…here's to happy planning!

~ Brandi