April 17th Wedding was almost a 'crash and burn'.

Erik and Noel's Wedding was one of the more interesting events I had done in a long time. I really enjoyed the eclectic Jazz, Flamenco, Blues and Christian music tastes they had chosen for Cocktail and Dinner music. Unfortunately, the evening was hampered by a 50 minute power outage in April. (Yes, April!) With nothing but clear skies and 50 degree temperatures, who da thunk it? But it happened anyway, go figure (and still a mystery to the writing of this blog!~) The caterer (Refined Dining), the hall (The Woman's Club of Wilmette) and myself pulled together to make it to the finish line. Besides that, the party was a success even with the minor medical emergency by a VIP guest that followed. No ambulances were needed, but I could have used a strong drink by then!!! A word of advice for those having friends as unofficial 'bridal consultants' in the future. DON'T! While the intentions of such volunteers are honorable, it often times is much MORE work for all professionals when such people are assigned to an event. Inevitably (and usually by ignorance) they forget something or fail to connect critical aspects of a reception that directly affects the flow of an event. Inexperience obscures and draws attention away from the timing of important parts of an event that would have been anticipated properly if left to us professionals or a professional coordinator. Bless their hearts for trying, it's just sad that unrealized, lost opportunities can be the result. I highly recommend using ABC coordinators (Association of Bridal Consultants). Since 1955 they have an incredibly knowledgeable member base. I saw it for myself last Tuesday 4/13 at their gala dinner and membership meeting at Bartlett Hills Golf Club. They don't miss a trick! Go ABC!