We are in the heart of Wedding Season, which generally runs from April through November, according to experts. While some may be about to pop the question, other young couples are beginning to plan that perfect day. Smithtown Today is proud to kick off our annual Wedding special, by interviewing renowned wedding and event planner, Gina Milano of Long Island Wedding Planners. Milano shares her expert advice, tips and emerging trends for those soon-to-be Mr. & Mrs. out there in our exclusive interview.
What’s the first question you ask your brides/clients?
I ask what her vision is… Most of the brides we work with, have a picture perfect vision of their special day. For some the wedding is reflection of the bride’s own personality. However, many of our clients stick to classic beauty, assuring a timeless style is captured.
What is the most vital piece of advice you could give a couple planning a wedding?
Know before your stroll down the aisle. Meaning, get an understanding of how much everything costs and what you are prepared to spend on your wedding before you so much as choose a wedding date. Many couples find themselves overwhelmed with the price of flowers, entertainment, photography and other items and that’s how things get out of control.
What are some of the tips you give to your clients when picking a date for a wedding?
Well we always recommend solidifying a budget before picking a date. If you are looking to save money, selecting “Off-Dates” can save a substantial amount. Hosting a wedding in the off-season, from December-March or choosing a Friday wedding verses a Saturday or Sunday gives you more flexibility on pricing out a venue.
Why does it pay to hire a Wedding Planner?
For starters, You deserve to savor the happiness of your own special day. We plan and orchestrate thousands of weddings and events, where as a Bride is most likely planning her first wedding ever. The stress of doing it all yourself can be overwhelming. Savings is also a big plus. Many people think they cannot afford a planner. But when you calculate the savings a Wedding Planner can provide, by getting better pricing, discounts and other deals from vendors, the cost of a planner is well worth it. In addition to all the savings, we use vendors that have a trusted track record with us. This avoids careless mistakes and mishaps that can happen when you are hiring someone for the first time.
The “Day Of Wedding Planner” is a popular alternative for Brides who want to do it all themselves… Take us through what the Day Of Planner service entails?
We start by sitting down with the bride and groom and go over all the details of the wedding. From confirming and coordinating the arrival times of your vendors, to fielding potential problems that might arise, we assure a more efficient timeline so the days events flow perfectly. We are on-site for the reception so you can enjoy your special day.
Has the digital age infiltrated the wedding experience?
Websites and blogs are still a popular tool for the bride and groom to keep guests up to date. However, we are seeing many weddings using Hashtags and hosting an Instagram page as well. Some of our couples will set up a photo booth area with props and fun gadgets as part of the entertainment with a hashtag sign set up so everyone can share in the digital documentary of the wedding.
Are you seeing a coordinated theme with weddings starting with the save the dates all the way to the decor, dress and food?
Well, I always say that the invitations set the mood for the wedding. Most couples keep a cohesive theme throughout, but it varies on an individual basis.
You have an exclusive press for custom invitations… What styles are popular with your clients?
I will say that our clients have impeccable taste! Right now, we are seeing lots of foil press, using metallic and jewel tones, and simple neutral tones with a pop color. Also, embellishments like a custom brooch on the invitation is very popular. However, with our signature press, we have the flexibility to customize on an individual basis.
Do you see custom cocktail menus infused with the food and theme?
Sure! Most weddings now have a signature cocktail… But we are seeing some fun trends with food as well. The Candy Bar station, Dessert and take-home swag bag stations are still very popular. But now, we are even seeing food trucks and similar fun amenities emerge at the wedding reception.
Are you seeing any alternative for the floral decor?
Flowers are still the go-to when it comes to centerpieces. However, we are seeing different concepts like tiered and layered centerpieces, lamps and chandeliers as well as manzanita branches for a whimsical wedding centerpiece.
How much influence does the latest trends for 2016-17 Wedding Season have on the brides/weddings you are coordinating?
Not as much as you’d think. For the most part, our clients chose classic and timeless over trendy themes. Some of the trending color schemes are emerging at our weddings, like blushes, metallic and jewel tones, but they are still implemented in a classic theme.
How much time would you recommend to plan for a wedding?
Just remember, with less time comes more complications and costs. If you can plan a wedding a year out or more, do it. You will end up paying for premiums with a shorter amount of time to plan. In everyday life, everything costs more when you order a rush delivery… So take your time to get it perfect, avoid careless mistakes and enjoy the suspense and that precious time spent as an engaged couple.
For more great advice from Gina Milano or to schedule a consultation visit LIWeddingPlanners.com