A few weeks ago, an email from ISES Edmonton popped up in my inbox with the title WEDmonton - Let’s Chat, Design & Inspire Each Other! So obviously, I had to find out more. Wedmonton was created for wedding industry professionals to meet up before the busy wedding season begins. I am not a member of ISES Edmonton but I would consider joining in the future if these are the types of events that they are bringing to the event/wedding industry in Edmonton.
This was not your typical business card in-hand, fake banter type of mixer. Every person in attendance has a real passion for what they do and I am constantly in awe of the work that I see from them. I loved that we had an opportunity to chat about our industry openly (more on that later), because it really is about growing together and elevating each other.
I have to say a huge thank you to the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald for providing the event space – if you haven’t seen the Wedgwood Room before, it is so unique! And the delicious dinner (OMG a poutine bar, are you kidding me) and desserts. And to Jennifer Bergman and Lars Erickson for being great hosts for the evening.
Now let’s get to the event. First, there was a tabletop design competition. Six tables were beautifully decorated and we had to choose just 3 that we loved the most. They were all so well done – who knew you could print on velvet! After the votes were tallied, it was Elegant Touches that took home the prize. They were my top pick as well!
The fun didn’t stop there! The main event was a speaker panel followed by round table discussions. First up was Haley of Shandro Photo . She spoke about the business of weddings – basically do work, get paid. It’s so important to remember that we provide a service and even though it is super fun and we get to be creative, it’s still our source of income. Price accordingly.
Emma Fortier from
Special Event Rentals
was up next and she talked to us about inspiration and how to work with your vendors to come up with unique design solutions. She really inspired me when she said
spend the most time on what you’re good at
. I love that! I want to provide my clients with the best service possible and sometimes that means outsourcing smaller or less creative tasks so that my time is used efficiently.
Last but not least, Caitlin McElhone of CM Events gave us a reality check on the risks and liability of being in the wedding industry. If you are considering hiring a planner, or any vendor for that matter, ask to review their contract. It should cover both you and them in case anything goes wrong. Seriously, any vendor without a formal contract is not legit.
It was such a great night of delicious food, great conversation, and new friends. Can’t wait for the next one! Search #WEDmonton on Twitter or Instagram for more attendee comments and photos.
We love making new friends!