Question 1

Do you have Preferred Vendors in the markets you support?

Accepted Answer

For the Tampa Bay market - yes I do. I work exclusively with Rose Garden Florist in Largo, FL and DJ Beyond the Music. For wedding cakes, my preferred vendor is Monicakes. For all other suppliers to include additional cities and states I support, I have an extensive list of preferred vendors that I can share with you

Question 2

How long have you been a planner?

Accepted Answer

I have been a planner for 20 years. I have planned weddings, corporate events, sales summits, advisory boards, early career trainings, C-suite trainings and board meetings for corporate C-suite level management. I have a lot of great contacts throughout the US, especially in the Tampa and the State of Florida.

Question 3

Do you plan "pop up" weddings?

Accepted Answer

I have had a LOT of inquiries regarding micro and or "pop up" type weddings recently. Yes, I will plan them if I have the availability! Recently, on 2 occasions, I was given less than a week to plan and the day was amazing! If we have the availability, we are happy to assist, however, please contact me for rates as they will be higher than the rates displayed

Question 4

Do you have some planning tips you can share as we get started?

Accepted Answer

(1) Hire a photographer, it's worth it to capture the day, even if it's just the 2 of you. (2) As you are building the budget, ensure when you are discussing costs with vendors you ask about service charges and taxes. (3) Have your headcount prior to touring venues (4) I always tell the couples I work with not to sweat the small stuff, have an open mind to pivot if necessary! (5) If the venue sales team is not truly excited for you from the moment you meet them, move on. Their customer service level sets the tone for all other departments at the venue. (6) Most importantly, on your wedding day BREATHE, take it all in and enjoy!

Question 5

What are some of the latest trends you can share?

Accepted Answer

Zola top Trends: Phone guestbooks, Vintage matchbook favors, Vintage wedding cake, Moissanite Rings and Statement sleeves on the wedding dress. Other Recent Trends: COLOR!! Both to the wedding dress (lace and under gown silouhette) and bridesmaids dresses, blurry black and white photos, custom dance floors, setting up life insurance policies or adding these to your registry and private last dance. Happy Planning!

Question 6

Do you take multiple weddings in the same week?

Accepted Answer

NO

Question 7

Do you plan other events?

Accepted Answer

YES! We plan weddings, rehearsal dinners, mini-moons and high end bridal showers. We also plan Corporate Events.

Question 8

What is the role of a Wedding Designer?

Accepted Answer

A Wedding Designer specializes in design and consulting for things such as: floor plans, lighting, flower arrangements, table design and concept, furniture, linen and attire. They add the STYLE and SOPHISTICATION DUTIES INCLUDE: Creates the Wedding Concept Color Palette guidance Decor Budget manager (florist, rentals, lighting and stationary) Branding (should you decide you wish to have one) Artistry (pulls everything together based on the style you choose) Special Prop Management Detailed Floor Plans Site Tours with or w/o the couple Ensures Decor is set up and in place at the Wedding and Rehearsal Identifies any potential space problems

Question 9

What is the role of a Wedding Planner?

Accepted Answer

Manage and deal with all vendors, contract negotiations, site visits, seating & seating charts, florals and all budget mngmt. Helps make wedding planning as seamless as possible. Planners have an A La Carte list of services they provide and can craft a package to fit the specific details of your wedding. DUTIES INCLUDE: Vendor Referrals, Contract Negotiations, Vendor calls and meetings, Track deposits, Payments, Budget Management, Timeline/Wedding Run of Show Floor Plans, Site Tours, Menu Planning, Menu tastings with couple Manages the Rehearsal Oversees everything on your wedding day (adhering of timeline, snafus, vendor management)

Question 10

What is the role of a Wedding Coordinator/Day Of?

Accepted Answer

Manages Rehearsal and “Day Of”. They are the Point of Contact on your special day. They are not involved in the earlier planning phases however, they do tweak the details and button up loose ends prior to the big day. DUTIES INCLUDE: Meets with you 1-3 months out to get a handle on the details to date Checks in with your vendors to review the signed contracts and confirm logistics Site visit to your venue(s) 30 day site inspection with the couple, Addresses any overlooked needs Manages the Rehearsal, Overseas everything on the wedding day Some will assist with floor plans and design your timeline and other details for extra fees

Question 11

Do you have any general tips I should consider?

Accepted Answer

Book Ahead of Time Always put someone in charge of your “DAY OF TASKS” that are not involved with nor attending the wedding Do not expect wedding vendors to be your “DAY OF” go to Tip everyone

Question 12

Can you please give me an average cost of services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we will be happy to provide you with the USA Average costs: Designer Range: $7000+ Planner: $5000+ Coordinator: $1500+

Question 13

Is it necessary to pay gratuity to my vendors, to include the Planner and if so, what is a fair amount?

Accepted Answer

Good rule of thumb is you should tip all vendors for great service, to include your Planner. 15-20% is a good amount

Question 14

Why does a Micro Wedding cost more than a Day of Planning Package?

Accepted Answer

We have seen an uptick in Micro Weddings since January 2023. Most Planners have 6-12 months to plan for day of, however we only have 1-2 months if that to plan for a Micro wedding. We are totally focusing full time on a quick turn wedding with the same logistics as any other package.

Question 15

Can you please provide your payment structure?

Accepted Answer

We charge a $250 non refundable deposit which is a part of the package price you see. That is due at time of contract signing - once you confirm you would like to hire Tampa Bay social we give you 30 days to return the contract. Also, the deposit holds your spot and guarantees we will not take on any other business for your special date. We then charge $500 once we have met with and conducted a day of discovery to site all of your venues. A 3rd payment in the amount we discuss will be due at your 30 day walk thru and the final payment will be due at your Rehearsal.

Question 16

Do you have a backup plan for emergencies or unexpected issues?

Accepted Answer

I work closely with all vendors that are a part of your wonderful day to ensure back up plans are in place. While no one can predict a situation and unfortunately there are times when emergencies such as hurricanes or other weather related events, venue damage, etc. happens, be assured that everyone on your team will work tirelessly to get through this. In the unlikely event that your date would have to change due to these circumstances, the vendors typically work with you for a future date.

Question 17

How do you stay updated on current wedding trends and industry best practices

Accepted Answer

I look to Zola for this information - I stayed plugged into their blogs, newsletters and journals. I also attend at least 2 large wedding shows annually.

Tampa Bay Social, LLC

About Tampa Bay Social, LLC