Today, I am happy to share my interview with Hillary of Your Day of Fairy Tales. She is 100% focused on serving budget brides and loves finding great vendors / fab finds for less! She sees smaller budgets as wonderful challenges versus liabilities. She's here to rescue the recessionista bride!
Photo: Kate Whitmore
How did you get started in weddings?
I have been around weddings my whole life. My mom is a florist, my grandma is a cake decorator and my dad was a wedding photographer in Illinois. So I guess I come by it naturally! ? I started my company in June 2008 with a year of college left to go. My degree is in Event Planning from MTSU and I love what I do! I wouldn't change it for anything!
What do you like most about weddings?
This is going to sound so cliché, but I LOVE the look on a groom's face when he sees his bride for the first time. Sometimes you get a groom in tears and sometimes you get a groom with a look of excitement on his face. Either way, that is what weddings are most about. The love and relationship between a bride and groom.
What's your favorite wedding pic/video and why?
This photo of my Bride, Kaela, shows true emotion and enjoying your wedding day! She was such a bubbly type personality on her day and you knew she was marrying Wes for all the right reasons!
Hillary's favorite wedding photo is of her bride Kaela as it beautifully captures her wedding day emotion.
My service philosophy is that every bride should be able to have a wedding planner for their day no matter their budget. Events become stressful and that is where I come in. No bride should have to be under stress during these fun times in their lives.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? / Why should a bride hire you?
It takes a lot to plan a wedding. I can easily handle any given task and am super flexible. I am not going to tell you something can be done if it can't with the budget or resources you have. I believe in honesty and integrity and that is what my business was founded on.
Brides should hire me because of my budget conscious approach to everything. I purposely set my prices where they are so that they are feasible to every budget. If the set prices I have don't work with that couple's budget, then we create a custom package for them to fit their budget.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors' helpfulness, professionalism, style?
1.) Nashville Audio Visual- Chris and his team are fantastic to work with and the proficiency and style they create are amazing.
2.) Crumb de la Crumb!- Have you tasted their cake!? Need I say more??
3.) Blair from Nashville Party Authority - I have worked with Blair and NPA for many years even before I started wedding planning and they never seize to amaze me! They put on one party!
4.) Mark and Noelle from McCoy Made - They are amazing and Love them to death! Their portraiture is divine and one of a kind.
5.) Ralph Griggs Nashville Wedding Minister- Ralph is a great guy and has provided services to so many of my couples as the officiant of their wedding! He is the best for couples who don?t have a home church in Nashville or aren't spiritual because he can do just about any type of ceremony.
What do you read/watch regularly to stay on top of wedding/event trends?
I read the Martha Stewart Weddings Blog as well as the DIY Bride Blog. Southern Weddings Magazine is another favorite of mine!
Let's discuss current wedding trends....What trend do you love?
I love Lace!!! Brides are using it everywhere and it can be such a tie in for vintage rustic themed weddings! I also love simple groupings of flowers for center pieces. Food trucks are another favorite of mine that I don?
Trend you're sad is gone? Unique wedding bouquets not just in round shapes! Brides see these pictures in magazines of hand tied bouquets, and I wish that they would go back to having varying shapes such as crescents and cascades!
What are your favorite wedding websites? / Neatest wedding find?
I am IN LOVE with weddingbee.comand projectwedding.com. They both have so many inspirational pictures and great DIY Tips. Of Course, Ashleys is my favorite source for all things wedding Nashville!
Advice for brides?
Don't be over taken by the DIY world! Limit yourself to just a couple and go from there! If you have your heart set on that, make sure that you have some assistance from family or a planner. Also, leave Pinterest alone for a while! Not everyone's wedding looks like that!
How should brides and grooms contact to learn about your wedding services?
Nashville Party Authority is known the city over for DJing weddings, parties and celebrity bashes and have received many "best DJ awards", from City Search to The Knot. They offer a medley of services beyond DJing, such as lighting, photo booths and karaoke, which would be such a fun addition to a grooms lounge or rehearsal dinner.
Get to know more about them via my interview with owner, Blair Saldana. They could be a great fit for your wedding entertainment.
Tell me about your service offering.
We are a full time Wedding Entertainment Group specializing in DJ Entertainment, Karaoke, Lighting, Photo Booths & Destination Weddings.
How many years have you been in business?
We are celebrating our 25th year collectively as the Nashville Party Authority.
How did you get started in weddings?
Weddings are our #1 source of revenue and always have been. Early on we realized that weddings best showcased our backgrounds in Radio, Performance Arts and Public Speaking so we made a conscientious effort to professionally meet the increasing demand for our wedding services. To put it simply:Weddings chose us, we didn't choose weddings, and we are very pleased that it worked out that way.
What do you like most about weddings?
A wedding is a very positive event. Wedding entertainers have a wonderful opportunity to entertain two people (and their guests) who are embarking on the most spectacular adventure of their lives. It doesn't get any better than that.
What's your favorite wedding pic/video and why? Why?
We entertained at a wedding that was professionally videographed where the Bride & Groom--huge Predator fans-- made their Formal Entrance & Introduction to AC/DC's 'Thunderstruck'. The couple wanted a very professional but slightly "campy" sports announcers voice. I've done a lot of voice over work and have state-of-the-art sound equipment, so no problem. That was great in and of itself but then, 'Gnash', the Predators mascot, made a surprise entrance and that just put it over the top. The crowd loved it! I loved it because it was so different and it had aura of spectacle (in a good way.)
What is your service philosophy?
In a few words--"The Bride Is Always Right" (even when we disagree with her.)
The Nashville Party Authority believes it is our mandate to bring the bride's vision of music and entertainment to life to the very best of our ability. We certainly offer suggestions based on our expertise; communication is a key ingredient to our success and
We are always honest with the client--we don't say we can move mountains when we obviously can't--but in the end the client is boss. If we can't comply with the couple's vision and requests, I don't sign the contract.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category?
Experience and industry recognition. In our 25 years in business The Nashville Party Authority has performed at literally hundreds of weddings. We have entertained at virtually every venue and with a slew of wedding professionals in Nashville and the surrounding area. It's no coincidence that we've worked with and are sought after by the who's who of wedding industry insiders and professionals.
What attracts brides to your service/company?
Our reputation.
What would previous couples say was the main reason they selected your company?
First of all we say the right things. Again, communication is critical and we are able to convey our style, procedures and philosophy to our clients. More importantly, we have the testimonials from satisfied clients that back up the things we say and that gives our clients the confidence to ensure the entertainment protion of "their most special day" to us. Then we back up what we say and what others say about us with award-winning action.
Describe the bride/couple that is most attracted to your service/company?
I believe it is the bride that has dreamed about her wedding for a long time, one that has a confident vision of her day but who is open to suggestions from industry professionals that is the most attracted to the Nashville Party Authority.
What is the most innovative aspect of your industry that brides and grooms might appreciate?
There have been huge innovations in lighting recently that have impacted the wedding scene. Two major trends are uplighting and customized monogram lighting. Either one, or both, of these lighting packages can enhance the venue and upgrade the ambiance. Also there is a trend toward more elaborate, club style lighting at receptions and some couples have opted to go old school with a mirror ball package where an announcement and a featured Funk/Disco request signals the "lighting" of the mirror ball. It's a real crowd pleaser.
How should brides and grooms contact to learn about your venue and wedding services?
Main contact: Blair Saldana
Visit our website: nashvillepartyauthority.com
Call us: 615-391-2322
Email us: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Follow us on Twitter: @NashvilleDJ
Conect with us on Facebook: @NashvillePartyAuthority
Photos provided by Nashville Party Authority. Where noted, photos by Joe Hendricks Photography and Gray Photography.
I've been in the wedding industry, listening to Nashville brides for 7 years. I've heard it all - vendors they love, hated, advice they'd give other brides, etc. One recurring theme is how long it takes photographers to get brides their images. This topic is debatable. I know that photographers have valid reasons for why it takes so long. I'm not here to argue one way or the other. But, I will say that fast, QUALITY service is appreciated and not very common.
For that reason, She+Him Wedding Photography is a wedding photography company that is on my radar. They produce great wedding images, are creative and relaxed and pride themselves in quick turnaround, ensuring quick communication and fast delivery of wedding images.
I'd like for you to meet them today via my interview with Liz, one-half of this photography duo.
First up - what's the orgin of your business name? From the moment I learned about your business, I've been curious.
Will had been shooting weddings prior to us getting together. We kept his name on the business for a while and then when we decided to shoot weddings more full time, we wanted a name that reflected both of our roles… While we are aware of the band She+Him, we just really liked the ring of the name.
Ahhh. I must not be a cool kid because I'm not familiar with the band. But, I will hop online to listen right now! What photography services do you offer?
We shoot weddings and engagement photos. We have 3 packages that range from 2,000-3,500.
How many years have you been in business?
Will has been shooting weddings for 5 years… Liz joined the team a year later. We started the She+Him brand a year ago to engage brides that are more in line with our aesthetic.
How did you get started in weddings?
Will is a commercial photographer on the side. To learn about all of the different specialties within the photography umbrella, he assisted a wedding photographer that shot weddings nationally and internationally. Once Liz joined the efforts, we discovered the joy in shooting weddings and getting to know all of our different brides and grooms on the best day of their lives.
What do you like most about weddings?
The thing they love most about weddings are the couples they get to meet. The process of telling a wedding story is extremely intimate. Will and Liz begin the process knowing relatively little and end up feeling like they’ve made life-long friends.
What’s your favorite wedding pic/video and why?
We really cant isolate a single favorite image. Out favorite wedding is Ellen + Brandon’s, the wedding that’s featured on our website. It embodies everything we enjoy about shooting a wedding.
What is your service philosophy?
Will is the artist. Liz is the organizer. The two of them firmly belive a bride and groom should have an amazing experience that is both stress-free and yields gorgeous results. Their goal at the end of a wedding day is to deliver images that transcend time and trends.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category?
With many companies you are forced to choose between stuffy/run of the mill imagery or a hard to reach photographer where you wait 6 months to a year to see anything. Our company is both left brained and right brained. We deliver an experience: beautiful imagery AND quick communication, day of planning, and fast turn-around times.
What attracts brides to your service/company?
We attract brides that care about their photography. We will treat you like an individual instead of giving you a cookie cutter schedule and photos. We will deliver the type of photos you want. We attract the busy, “I don’t know anything” brides and also the “I’ve looked on Pinterest and want to try all these shots” brides.
What would previous couples say is the main reason they selected your company?
“We selected Will and Liz as our wedding photographers first because of positive references from friends, and the because of their portfolio. We were drawn to their unique style, and how those being photographed always seems relaxed and comfortable. As expected, this is how we felt during our two photo shoots with them. Their ability to create an assuring environment allows for great and natural photos. We were thrilled with our choice of their service.”
We couldn’t say it better ourselves.
Describe the bride/couple that is most attracted to your service/company?
The bride/couple that is most attracted to She+Him would be someone who has an opinion about their wedding photography. We aren’t marketing ourselves as everybody’s wedding photographer… we are artisans. We want a bride/couple that will appreciate the time and energy that we put into creating beautiful portraits. We tend to line up best with DIY brides that are laid back and create a day that is about celebrating the two of them.
We seek weddings that are a true reflection of the couple.
What is the most “now” aspect of your business or industry that brides and grooms might appreciate?
The most now aspect of She+Him is really something that comes from the past. We love the look of film and the look of a photograph that isn’t overly processed. The era before ours was concerned with quality over quantity. We want to embody that age of craftsmanship. Oh, and because we love film, we shoot instant peel-apart film… just because it makes us happy. Turns out, our brides love it too!
How should brides and grooms contact to learn about your venue and wedding services?
The folks at Nashville Event Space manage some of the most stylish venues for weddings and events around town.
I reached out to Bianca, one of their event specialists, to learn more about aVenue, one of their most popular venues. I asked all of the questions that you will need to know as you consider this chic downtown location. Oh - and all of the design shown below is the work of Laurie Hardman and Julia Page of Randi Events, an event team that is available to assist venue couples.
Quick location highlights: stunning blank canvas space, downtown location, outside food and alchohol allowed, event design services available
Photos above: Jonathon Campbell Photography
Tell me about Avenue.
This 15,000 square foot gem sits right in the heart of the growing downtown events district. Its location at the foot of the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge sits just across from the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and the Music City Center. This amazing location makes it the perfect location for any type of event.
When was the business established? 1998
What is your company's motto/philosophy? “We plan an event that no one else can because we make the impossible possible.”
What attracts couples to your venue for their wedding?
aVenue offers downtown Nashville’s most unique event rental option. With a team of designers at Randi Events, we make every event special for every client and guest. aVenue has plenty of historic charm with it’s exposed brick and hard wood floors. Located just off of Broadway, aVenue is a great venue that will definitely impress your guests. Perfect for events large and small, aVenue can meet your every need!
Which bride budget do you serve? Moderate, Luxury
What makes your venue so unique from a service perspective?
Need a wedding planner? No problem! Randi Event designers offer this service. We offer wedding ceremony and reception coordination services not just those that are managed by Nashville Event Space. This service would encompass all aspects of the wedding planning including developing a timeline and directing the rehearsal and wedding ceremony. However, if you have come to us with a wedding planner, we welcome them and are happy to work side-by-side with them to make your wedding day perfect!
Photos above: Nashville Event Space
What is your pricing model?
Rental fees vary based on the day of the week. Peak versus off-peak times may also vary rental rates. Please inquire with the Sales Manager for the Facility Rental venue rental rates. A cleaning fee, facility manager and security fees will be charged in addition to the venue rental.
What payment options are accepted? Payment is accepted in the form of cash, check, cashier’s check or money order. Visa or MasterCard are also accepted. What event options does your venue offer?
We can accommodate both wedding ceremony and reception at aVenue. aVenue is also a great place to host your next birthday party, holiday party, bar/bat mitzvah, corporate meetings and music industry gatherings or any type of celebration.
What type of rooms are available?
The venue features a built-in stage perfect for live music, performances or presentations, a loft space for additional seating and entertaining, and a full basement with a bridal suite and catering area.
How many people can you accommodate?
aVenue can accommodate up to 250 guests for a buffet style seated dinner, 180 guests for a plated, seated dinner and up to 500 guests for a standing reception.
How many events do you take per day?
Nashville Event Space only hosts one event per venue per day allowing each client ample time for set-up and tear-down of their event.
Is outside catering allowed? Do you require couples to use a set list of caterers?
To ensure the great level of service we provide to our clients, we work with a list of approved caterers in our venues. We would be happy to work as a liaison with you and our approved caterers to develop a menu for your event based upon your specific tastes and budget. Clients wishing to work with a caterer not listed on the Approved Catering list will incur an outside catering fee of $7.50 per person. The caterer must supply a copy of their off-site catering license and provide a certificate of liability insurance.
Is outside alcohol allowed?
Yes! When you choose to purchase and bring in your own alcohol, a bar set-ups fee is charged. We hire the ABC certified bartender set and serve all alcoholic beverages. Security is also required for all events serving alcohol.
Is an on-site event coordinator available?
Any client who rents one of our managed venues has the option to utilize our event design services. This service extends to those things which involve event décor and production. Our processional staff is also well trained in Wedding planning so if this is something that you may be interested in please inquire.
Our event designer will work with you every step of the way to make sure the venue is an absolute reflection of your wishes presented throughout the planning process.
As a full-service event design and venue-management firm, our event designers will work with you every step of the way to create an event that meets both your needs and budget, while creating an amazing event that will WOW your guests.
How should brides and grooms contact to learn about your venue and wedding services?
One thing I love about what I do at Ashley's Bride Guide is the opportunity to get to interview and share with you some of Nashville's top wedding professionals, via my vendor spotlights.
Today's spotlight is on jHenderson Studios, operated by the lovely Jenna Brie Henderson who's as cool a person as her photographs are gorgeous. I've really enjoyed reading her blog which showcases not only her talent in photographing weddings and engagements, but photography as a whole. I won't spoil it for you, you can see for yourself in our one-on-one with jHenderson Studios.
How did you get started in weddings?
When I began working in photography, I knew right away wedding were for me! A friend was getting married about the same time, and that was my way in. From there, it was a mix of hard work and luck that built my client base, and now I’ve been in business for myself for over 7 years.
What do you like most about weddings?
I love the beauty of the drama of it all. There is just so much going on, emotions are on edge, people are always moving & interacting…it’s such a spectacle. I love the challenge of telling the story of a wedding day by capturing the motion in a still photograph.
What’s your favorite wedding pic/video and why?
My favorite changes on a regular basis, though I tend to lean towards images that are photojournalistic in their nature, where my subject has ignored me and been present in their own moment. Any image that contributes to telling the whole story of a wedding is going to be one I love.
What is your service philosophy?
I want my clients to know that I’m available to them at any time to answer questions and help them have a truly wonderful wedding experience that is showcased through beautiful photos. I also like to make friends with my clients…not only does it makes everything seem less like work, but I love staying in touch as their family grows.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
My strength is my personality. I have the right balance between being assertive enough to orchestrate a large number of people and laid back enough to not sweat the small stuff. I pour my heart and soul into every single wedding I photograph. Not only to I dwell on my upcoming weddings for the weeks and days prior, thinking about the ways I can do my job better, I also spend hours after it's all over, going through each and every photo to make sure they're all as perfect as they can be.
What makes you stand out from other photographers?
First of all, I shoot a mixture of digital and film photography. I shoot mostly 35mm film throughout the wedding day, and I’ve chosen to shoot film because I love all things analog in such a digital world. It’s important to me to tell the story of a wedding as it happens, and I find that film brings an extra touch of beauty to that story. I haven’t completely abandoned digital photography, but my best work tends to come from film. (All images in this post were photographed using film).
Also, my pricing structure is quite different from most. Rather than having set packages, I allow my clients to build their own custom wedding collection using a credit system. It gives my clients the chance to get exactly what they want, and know exactly what it costs.
Who are your favorite Nashville wedding vendors?
Ashley’s Bride Guide, of course! I’m also a HUGE fan of the gals over at CJ’s Off the Square as well as Legacy Farms and anyone involved with the Main EventPro team. And I’ve never seen a bouquet I didn’t love from The Enchanted Florist or Brocade Design. With This Ring Wedding Films is my top videographer recommendation. Honestly…I could keep going. There are so many great vendors in Nashville.
Who do you recommend when you’re not available/not a fit?
I usually refer folks to Ashley’s Bride Guide first! I know only top quality vendors are listed here. I also love the work of Joshua Gull. I’ve been lucky enough to have been in front of his camera, and I know any client who books him would be pleased with his work.
Good answer! Thank you:). What's the best way for Nashville brides and grooms to contact you?
At Ashley’s Bride Guide, we’re always on the lookout for innovative and exciting wedding ideas.
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