A Snappy! Q&A Session with Jameson Creations Wedding Planners

What are all the types of events you plan? (i.e. weddings, corporate events, etc.)
We plan all types of events! Weddings are our specialty; but we also do trade shows, anniversaries, reunions, business events and conferences as well as fund raising and social gatherings.

What types of events do you enjoy doing the most and why?
Our favorite events are weddings simply because we become some what emotionally vested into the bridal couple and their families! We learn things along the way that have brought them together, sets their wedding a part and meanings behind many of the details that come into play. We never get tired of watching the ceremonies and the moment that they say "I do". Tears still flow and laughter still rings even though we are working the event from beginning to end. It's hard to say goodbye to our brides and grooms because they have become friends and family to us!

How many events have you planned in your career, and of these, how many have been held in the Indianapolis area?
We probably have about 185 total events planned and about 70 here in the Indianapolis area. Not all these have been weddings.

Describe the most memorable event that you have ever been a part of planning.
I think the most cherished event was a bride and groom who both had lost their parents within the planning stages of their big day due to health issues and their only family left were brothers [on each side] in Afghanistan and we were able to get a recording of the brothers to actually perform a part of the ceremony and surprise the bride and groom. The officiant started the ceremony, stopped it in the middle and two screens came down and the two brothers finished the ceremony as if they were right there. There wasn't a dry eye in the house! This couple had so many struggles along the way and very little family but their community and friends help make their day the best!

What is the best compliment that you have ever received about your services from a client/guest?
"You made our dream come true"! It just doesn't get any better than that for us! WE pride ourselves in not only being wedding planners but dream makers and if we do that for a couple, then we did our job!

Which are you top three favorite venues in town? Most ideal for an outdoor event or ceremony?
We love Laurel Hall because we have done so many weddings there [it feels like home], the Montage because of the variety of glamor that can come from the venue and Scottish Rite because it's stunning by itself.

What are the most common things that clients often forget to consider when selecting venues and vendors?
Budget and logistics! A budget will usually consist of "this is how much money we have" instead of allocating funds prior to purchasing or booking. As they go along, their budget dwindles way before their costs end. This often leads to more poor choices and disappointments that could have been avoided. Secondly, the logistics. A place may look beautiful but doesn't always have the amenities, space or capabilities of doing all the couple wants to do at their wedding. For example, some want to shoot off fireworks for a send off but policies or time constraints may get in the way. Or some cost cutting techniques can be to bring in your own food or alcohol but many venues won't allow that.

What would you say differentiates you from other planners in the industry?
I think the down to earth persona we display as well as treating each wedding as if it's our only one really sets us a part. Our role is to save the couple money, bring in "wow" moments that they wouldn't think or believe that they could afford and relieve the couple of all stress along the way and day of the event. Customer service is key and often it is the little things that make all the difference to the couple. It's their one big day to shine on any budget and we make sure they do.

What is your argument when people say that they can’t afford a planner?
It usually boils down to educating. Some venues come with an "event coordinator" or are advertising a "day of coordinator" which is true; however, it's a coordinator for the VENUE not the bride and groom. Secondly, the bride and groom often don't understand the role of a planner; what they can do and not do and what type of assistance that they provide not only at the event but leading up to the event. Planners are not a necessity like a cake or dinner are so proper education 90% of the time will be the argument that allows the bride and groom to realize they need this.