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 Photographers from Brandess Media. For wedding cakes, my preferred vendor is Chantilly Cakes. 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.

Question 18

What is one unique thing about Tampa Bay Social that is different from all the other Wedding Planning Companies?

Accepted Answer

We like to spoil our Grooms too!!! We offer Groom Mentoring and Pampering suggestions for our Grooms, as well as onsite support strictly for the Groom and party. Fees negotiable

Question 19

Timeline Organization and Management

Accepted Answer

We pride ourselves in our Timeline! We are available to manage just your timeline, please contact us for additional information and costs.

Question 20

Writing Vows

Accepted Answer

Here are a few tips regarding writing vows.... (if you want additional support in the area and are still looking for an Officiant, we work with Brian Jones from Tampa Bay Sensational Ceremonies) Reflect on Your Relationship - Think about your journey together. Consider the qualities you love most about your partner. Set the Tone - Make sure the tone matches the overall vibe of your wedding. Be Personal and Specific Keep It Concise: Aim for about 1-2 minutes in length. Practice out loud Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to write and revise your vows. Be Honest: Speak from the heart and be genuine in your words.

Question 21

Can we hire you for timeline management only?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide timeline management for brides globally! Contact us for pricing

Question 22

How long have you been in business?

Accepted Answer

I opened Tampa Bay Social, LLC in January of 2022 after working an extremely rewarding 27 year career in Corporate America. It was a fantastic decision, and I have not looked back :)

Question 23

Does Tampa Bay Social, LLC have a business license?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do and I am happy to provide that information to you during our planning calls.

Question 24

How many wedding clients do you take on annually?

Accepted Answer

We take on no more than 12 weddings annually as we want to ensure our couples receive the best experience possible.

Question 25

What is the most unique wedding Tampa Bay Social, LLC has planned?

Accepted Answer

We planned an outdoor lakeside wedding with a naturist design. Everything had to be ordered for the wedding - tents, chairs, tables, weather back up plan, etc. It was a fantastic day

Question 26

What type of wedding day challenges have you had?

Accepted Answer

To date we have only had an issue with a vendor hired by one of our couples. They delivered the incorrect chairs for an outdoor wedding; however, they provided a much more expensive chair due to the snafu. We stay in constant contact with our vendors to have your most special day run a smoothly as possible.

Question 27

Do you have a list of references

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can provide upon request

Question 28

Do you have a portfolio?

Accepted Answer

I have photos on Zola and my website - Tampa Bay Social, LLC. If you require additional photos, you will need to contact the couple for a reference and request they allow you to peruse their wedding day photos.

Question 29

Where are your customer reviews?

Accepted Answer

Here on Zola or on my website - Tampa Bay Social, LLC

Question 30

Are we required to use your preferred vendors

Accepted Answer

No we do not mandate the use of our vendors. However, please note we have screened our Preferred Vendors, and they consistently provide excellent service.

Question 31

Once we decide to book with you, how quick can we receive the contract?

Accepted Answer

We provide a preliminary contract and projected cost estimate just after our initial planning call. We require a $300 non-refundable retainer upon contract signing.

Question 32

Please discuss your style with regards to problem solving skills.

Accepted Answer

Here’s a glimpse into how I typically handle problems: Clarify the Problem Analyze the Information Generate Solutions: Based on the analysis, I brainstorm multiple potential solutions. Creativity is key here—I try to think outside the box and come up with innovative approaches. Evaluate and Choose: Each solution is evaluated for feasibility, potential impact, and risks. I compare the pros and cons to help decide the best course of action. Implement and Test Review and Iterate In essence, my style is a blend of systematic reasoning and creative thinking, always aimed at finding the most effective and efficient solution.

Question 33

What do you wear at weddings?

Accepted Answer

Mostly I stick to a black dress or black skirt with colorful top. I do check in with the venue to see what they wear and sometimes I will opt to mimic their colors and style.

Tampa Bay Social, LLC

About Tampa Bay Social, LLC