Danielle Bobish from Curtain Up Events is not your typical wedding planner: she compares today's weddings to a theatrical production and even takes brides to Broadway shows for inspiration. A recent New York Times article talked about her unique take on weddings, and I also asked her some more questions about her creative approach.
Q. How do you use your background in musical-theater to make your weddings unique?
A. When I started out in event planning, I was still doing theater professionally. During that overlap, I came to realize that a theatrical production is much like a wedding or special event. You have the stage manager who calls all the cues and makes sure everything runs smoothly. If you've ever been backstage during a performance, there are so many things going on which keep the show running that the audience never sees. The same is true for a wedding. I'm calling a million different cues, but the guests just enjoy a seamless event. My musical-theater background also enables me to have a long list of theatrical vendors such as Tony-nominated lighting designers and Broadway performers that can make the day a little more spectacular.
Overall, I think the most unique thing I employ is my ability to connect with people. A wedding is a very personal event and all of the special touches should reflect the couple and not me. Those special touches will make people say "that wedding was so THEM."
Q. What are some simple things brides can do to make their weddings stand-out?
A. Again, it's those personal touches. I just did a wedding for an astrologer who has an amazing talent of remembering people's signs. We incorporated that trait by putting guests' astrological signs and descriptions on the back of their escort cards. People were so impressed and couldn't figure out how she knew their birthday!
If you're not particularly religious, incorporate yourselves, your friends and your family into your ceremony. Don't do traditional readings. Maybe find quotes from your favorite books, movies and songs and have your bridal party or your family read them to you during the ceremony. It's all about YOU!
Q. Have you ever turned down a bride's request because it was too outrageous?
A. I love outrageous and I encourage it, however, you have to think within reason of your budget and your space. Some things just aren't within reason. If you want to get married in a NYC loft, then don't book a historical country inn. They will have restrictions as to what you can do to the space. You have to think realistically and use the best of what you have.
Q. What was it like to work on The Style Network's "My Celebrity Wedding"?
A. It was an amazing experience. Carly is a wonderful woman and it was an honor to work with her. And David Beahm is honestly a true genius. He can do anything! I think the most rewarding part was working with the Bride and Groom. We are still friends.
Q. How do you work with a couple's budget?
A. I always give a sheet to my brides and grooms at our initial consultation with the average starting prices for vendors in NYC (if they're getting married in NYC). Budgets are hard. This is a couple's life savings! My suggestion is usually that if the budget is tight, you need to prioritize. Some things are just more important than others. For example, photography is never something to skimp on. The photos are all you have left at the end of the day. You want to be proud to display them for years to come.
Q. What are the most important questions to ask before booking a wedding coordinator?
A. I think asking for references is always a good idea. These are people who have experienced the planner's work first hand. Another good question to ask is "how many hours of your time does the package include." A lot of planners put a limit on their time with you. You should always feel comfortable with your planner, and you should never feel as if you can't call on her for anything, including emotional support. Another great question is "how many weddings to you take in one weekend?" The answer should be one. Thanks, Danielle, for sharing your wonderful and unique philosophy with us!
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