Our Favorite Winter Wedding Trends

Planning a wintertime wedding this year? Whether you’re an aspiring professional seeking inspiration, a bride or groom browsing ideas, or a working professional helping a client, we did some browsing to check out all the best winter wedding ideas for this year.

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The Best Winter Wedding Ideas for 2018

1. Hot Chocolate Bar

   via the cottage market

   This is such a fantastic idea for a cozy winter wedding. Not only that, it’s super inexpensive to DIY this reception addition yourself if you’re looking to save some money. To set up your own make-your-own hot chocolate bar, be sure to get your hands on a thermos-type of container that can keep a ton of hot cocoa warm for an hour or two. Then, lay out some fun toppings in pretty containers that match your décor- think crushed candy canes, mini marshmallows, or maybe some peppermint schnapps.

2. Handmade Candleholders

   via bridal musings

   These are so beautiful and easy to put together for a winter wedding DIY centerpiece. All you’ll need is a large mason jar (one for each table you’re planning to display them on), a few bags of cranberries (you can get these frozen in your local grocery store for under $5), and a few springs of whatever wintry greenery you prefer. Once you’ve arranged the contents of your vase, add some water and float a mini tea light inside for a cozy, creative glow.

3. Wintry Place Cards

   via brit and co

   If you’re sharing any physical paper info with your guests on the big day, whether it’s ceremony information, directions to a reception venue or place cards, this is a simple accent that really carries the theme throughout the day in a thoughtful way. All you’ll need for this craft is a spool of twine and some springs of wintry greenery.

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Our Favorite Winter Wedding Trends

Planning a wintertime wedding this year? Whether you’re an aspiring professional seeking inspiration, a bride or groom browsing ideas, or a working professional helping a client, we did some browsing to check out all the best winter wedding ideas for this year.

Take an Online Wedding Planning Course

The Best Winter Wedding Ideas for 2018

1. Hot Chocolate Bar

   via the cottage market

   This is such a fantastic idea for a cozy winter wedding. Not only that, it’s super inexpensive to DIY this reception addition yourself if you’re looking to save some money. To set up your own make-your-own hot chocolate bar, be sure to get your hands on a thermos-type of container that can keep a ton of hot cocoa warm for an hour or two. Then, lay out some fun toppings in pretty containers that match your décor- think crushed candy canes, mini marshmallows, or maybe some peppermint schnapps.

2. Handmade Candleholders

   via bridal musings

   These are so beautiful and easy to put together for a winter wedding DIY centerpiece. All you’ll need is a large mason jar (one for each table you’re planning to display them on), a few bags of cranberries (you can get these frozen in your local grocery store for under $5), and a few springs of whatever wintry greenery you prefer. Once you’ve arranged the contents of your vase, add some water and float a mini tea light inside for a cozy, creative glow.

3. Wintry Place Cards

   via brit and co

   If you’re sharing any physical paper info with your guests on the big day, whether it’s ceremony information, directions to a reception venue or place cards, this is a simple accent that really carries the theme throughout the day in a thoughtful way. All you’ll need for this craft is a spool of twine and some springs of wintry greenery.

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How To Save Money on Destination Weddings

As a wedding planner, you should be prepared to coordinate events of all shapes and sizes. While many couples are willing to stay local, and are open to suggestions about your go-to venues, caterers and vendors, others are looking to tie the knot abroad.

Destination wedding planning is an entirely different ball game, and among other obstacles, maintaining budget can be tricky while trying to coordinate a dream event that includes travel and lodging expenses. So before all these extra amenities start to topple your financial plan, reference this list of moneysaving tips for destination weddings:

How to Save Money on Destination Weddings

Shop Package Deals

Travel and hospitality is an industry jam-packed with package deal options. Try to find a package that bundles several necessary amenities and offers them all at one discounted rate- think airfare, lodging, car rental, even some excursions or tours if possible.

When it comes to destination weddings, remember that guests are making sacrifices and spending a substantial amount of money to be there for the couple. It’s considered best etiquette to provide those guests with some organized group activity options. The more you can get some of those activities included in your bundled rate, the better.

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Travel Off-Peak

If the couple is flexible with their date, try to convince them to pick something off-season. You’ll save a great deal of money in transportation and hotel costs if you’re willing to make this timing adjustment.

If saving money is a priority for your couple, you should absolutely avoid holidays, and that includes ones celebrated specifically at the destination location as well. Let’s say they’re hoping to get married in Sao Paulo, for example. February might seem like an off-season time to visit, but for half of that month, flights and hotels for that location are much higher because of their Carnival street party celebrations. So be smart and do your research, then try to pick a time when visiting your given location comes at a more low-key, off-season time.

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How To Save Money on Destination Weddings

As a wedding planner, you should be prepared to coordinate events of all shapes and sizes. While many couples are willing to stay local, and are open to suggestions about your go-to venues, caterers and vendors, others are looking to tie the knot abroad.

Destination wedding planning is an entirely different ball game, and among other obstacles, maintaining budget can be tricky while trying to coordinate a dream event that includes travel and lodging expenses. So before all these extra amenities start to topple your financial plan, reference this list of moneysaving tips for destination weddings:

How to Save Money on Destination Weddings

Shop Package Deals

Travel and hospitality is an industry jam-packed with package deal options. Try to find a package that bundles several necessary amenities and offers them all at one discounted rate- think airfare, lodging, car rental, even some excursions or tours if possible.

When it comes to destination weddings, remember that guests are making sacrifices and spending a substantial amount of money to be there for the couple. It’s considered best etiquette to provide those guests with some organized group activity options. The more you can get some of those activities included in your bundled rate, the better.

Want to Take an Online Wedding Planning Course

Travel Off-Peak

If the couple is flexible with their date, try to convince them to pick something off-season. You’ll save a great deal of money in transportation and hotel costs if you’re willing to make this timing adjustment.

If saving money is a priority for your couple, you should absolutely avoid holidays, and that includes ones celebrated specifically at the destination location as well. Let’s say they’re hoping to get married in Sao Paulo, for example. February might seem like an off-season time to visit, but for half of that month, flights and hotels for that location are much higher because of their Carnival street party celebrations. So be smart and do your research, then try to pick a time when visiting your given location comes at a more low-key, off-season time.

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Floral Design for Dinner Parties

The weather is warming up, and busy season for wedding and event planners is nearly in full swing- meaning floral designers can expect an uptick in bookings for beautiful, elegant event design services.

One of the most commonly overlooked means through which successful floral designers generate a large percentage of their annual profit is through jobs like this- not just day to day bouquet creation. Full scale event and party design is a great conquest for aspiring designers, and one we highly recommend you consider. To give you some inspiration getting started, here are some tips for planning the perfect dinner party design for any client:

It’s All About the Details

Expert floral designers who specialize in event planning don’t stop at greenery and blooms- you’ve got to think about small details if you really want to wow your clients. Consider things like seating cards, place settings, menu designs, cocktail labels and dishware as well.

If you don’t wind up making recommendations of your own, it shows a thorough, careful mindfulness when you ask the client what they have planned themselves. You want every element of the tablescape to coordinate- so knowing the details of other things that will be placed alongside your floral designs is a key element in ensuring that.

Take an Online Floral Design Course

Remember the Focus

Although as a floral enthusiast, it’s often tempting to design a bold, striking centerpiece that will capture the attention of your guests, it’s important to remember that when it comes to a dinner party, those flowers are a compliment. The food is the main focus here, and your designs should be mindful of that fact.

In addition to inquiring about the table décor and dishware plan, ask what’s being served. The more information you can gather about the overall look, feel (and even taste) of the function, the better equipped you are to select and design arrangements that complement the aesthetic. Think about it- if your host is serving a hearty roasted turkey with robust, traditional sides, a flirty pink peony cocktail arrangement would stick out like a sore thumb alongside this otherwise rustic feel.

More Isn’t Always More

Sometimes the best suited arrangement isn’t the grandest one- it’s the one with the most thoughtful, complimentary subtlety.

Once you communicate with the event planners regarding the table setup, décor and serving style (Is it a buffet? Will wait staff serve the guests in their seats?), you can plan your scope accordingly. If guests will be self-serving, passing dishes around the table to one another for example, a sprawling, massive centerpiece will annoyingly get in the way. Communicate with your other vendors, calibrate accordingly, and remember to work as a team.

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Floral Design for Dinner Parties

The weather is warming up, and busy season for wedding and event planners is nearly in full swing- meaning floral designers can expect an uptick in bookings for beautiful, elegant event design services.

One of the most commonly overlooked means through which successful floral designers generate a large percentage of their annual profit is through jobs like this- not just day to day bouquet creation. Full scale event and party design is a great conquest for aspiring designers, and one we highly recommend you consider. To give you some inspiration getting started, here are some tips for planning the perfect dinner party design for any client:

It’s All About the Details

Expert floral designers who specialize in event planning don’t stop at greenery and blooms- you’ve got to think about small details if you really want to wow your clients. Consider things like seating cards, place settings, menu designs, cocktail labels and dishware as well.

If you don’t wind up making recommendations of your own, it shows a thorough, careful mindfulness when you ask the client what they have planned themselves. You want every element of the tablescape to coordinate- so knowing the details of other things that will be placed alongside your floral designs is a key element in ensuring that.

Take an Online Floral Design Course

Remember the Focus

Although as a floral enthusiast, it’s often tempting to design a bold, striking centerpiece that will capture the attention of your guests, it’s important to remember that when it comes to a dinner party, those flowers are a compliment. The food is the main focus here, and your designs should be mindful of that fact.

In addition to inquiring about the table décor and dishware plan, ask what’s being served. The more information you can gather about the overall look, feel (and even taste) of the function, the better equipped you are to select and design arrangements that complement the aesthetic. Think about it- if your host is serving a hearty roasted turkey with robust, traditional sides, a flirty pink peony cocktail arrangement would stick out like a sore thumb alongside this otherwise rustic feel.

More Isn’t Always More

Sometimes the best suited arrangement isn’t the grandest one- it’s the one with the most thoughtful, complimentary subtlety.

Once you communicate with the event planners regarding the table setup, décor and serving style (Is it a buffet? Will wait staff serve the guests in their seats?), you can plan your scope accordingly. If guests will be self-serving, passing dishes around the table to one another for example, a sprawling, massive centerpiece will annoyingly get in the way. Communicate with your other vendors, calibrate accordingly, and remember to work as a team.

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How to Hire the Right Wedding Band

For many couples, picking the perfect DJ or band is one of the most important decisions they’ll make during the wedding planning process, and one of the additions they’ll spend a larger portion of their budget on. As the wedding planner, it’s your job to help steer the couple in the right direction in terms of choosing a band that’s appropriate, and one that corresponds with the mood and aesthetic of their gathering

From upbeat DJs to elegant band ensembles, the musical performer(s) you hire for your wedding need to match, so to speak, with the rest of your venue decisions. For example, is your reception being held in a swanky, old fashioned, high end hotel? Maybe a young local DJ blasting the cha cha slide isn’t the most fitting pick for this space. Contrarily, if your couple wants to host their reception at the trendy downtown bar where they went on their first date, this fun DJ would be the perfect fit.

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To simplify things, generally you can expect to find these three most common types of musicians available when it comes time to hire a musical performer for wedding ceremonies and receptions:

1. Individual Instrumentalists

   These would include harpists, violinists, cellists, guitarists, flautists, pianists, etc.

   These musicians are especially appropriate and often chosen to perform at ceremonies, cocktail hours, or small, sit-down luncheons where the couple does not want/ expect the guests to start dancing. These musicians are typically booked directly, and offer more of an elegant, background musical element to the day.

2. Bands

   A live band is a great choice for receptions where the couple wants their guests up and dancing. Bands can either be booked directly, or sometimes through a music broker or entertainment agency.

3. DJs

   Quite obviously, since they aren’t the ones actually performing music live themselves, DJs offer you the widest selection of music from a variety of eras and genres. Whereas a live string band can’t exactly switch it up and play that new Beyoncé song the maid of honor wants to hear, a DJ can shift gears and bounce back and forth between tons of different musical styles to accommodate whatever mood you’re going for at any point throughout the reception.

   They may be booked directly or through a music broker or entertainment agency.

As we mentioned before, when it comes to hiring the perfect individual or group of musicians to entertain guests on this big day, the most important thing to keep in mind is the mood. Try to paint a mental picture of what the venue, décor, dress, etc. will look like on this special day. Then simply ask yourself what kind of music fits in, and what kind of music would clash? From there your decision should be simple.

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3 Perfect Valentine’s Party Hacks

If you hope to become a professional event planner someday, themed holiday party planning is always a perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills, grow your portfolio and gain some experience. If you haven’t already started developing a design portfolio, party planning such as this is a great opportunity to snap some photographs to showcase your event planning creativity and attention to detail.

This Valentine’s Day, here are some super simple creative ideas to use if you’re planning a themed event:

1. Balloon Darts

   Expecting kids at your V-Day get together? It’s always important, regardless of your expected age group turnout, to plan some coordinated activities for guests to participate in at your party. When you solely rely on guests to make conversation and entertain themselves, you’re putting a great deal of responsibility and pressure on the partygoers to facilitate their own good time. While this sometimes works, it’s not always a reliable plan. Coordinate simple activities like this to keep the party’s momentum rolling.

   For this simple DIY, all you’ll need is a handful of colorful balloons. Tape them to a heart shaped stencil and decorate some darts for an easy, inexpensive game.

   
   Want to make money planning events for clients? Check out this online event planning course.
2. DIY Chocolate Strawberry Bar

   Again, as we mentioned above, as a qualified event planner, a part of your role is to make sure your party guests are kept busy and entertained throughout the entire function- beyond their own chit chat amongst themselves. DIY menu options are a great way to incorporate some activity in the meal plan.

   Rather than laying out a pre-made buffet or serving guests as they’re seated, an interactive, decorate-your-own chocolate covered strawberry bar gives your partygoers a way to get their hands dirty and preoccupy themselves while they mingle.

   All you’ll need for this simple setup is several cartons of fresh strawberries, a handful of skewers, and an assortment of themed toppings- think pink sprinkles, edible glitter, etc.

   
3. Sweet-Themed Décor

   If you don’t have a huge budget to work with, you’ll need to get creative when it comes to flirty, festive décor options. This simple DIY can be done for under $10 – all you’ll need to buy is a bag or two of Valentine’s Day themed m&m’s.

   You can use any vase or mason jars you already have. Simply fill your vase choices with m&m’s and add a handful of cheap pink and red stems from your local grocery or florist for an easy centerpiece.

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What To Bring to a Wedding Consultation

If you’re a recent wedding planning course graduate and new to the industry, your first consultation with a pair of potential clients can be an extremely nerve-wracking thing to plan for. But there’s no need to stress. Below, our expert wedding planners share 4 key things you should make sure to bring along for the meeting. As long as you come prepared with the items listed below, you can relax knowing you’re as prepared as any other industry pro would be. What To Bring to a Wedding Consultation

1. Wedding Questionnaire

   You should usually have a printed list of questions that can help guide you through this two-way interview with your potential clients. This will help you get the conversation going and gather some general information about key things like the size, style, budget and timeline of the couple’s wedding.

2. Client List

   Professional event planners typically keep a small portfolio containing some letters and testimonial-like notes written by couples they’ve worked with in the past. These sort of serve as resume references, giving your potential clients peace of mind knowing you’ve planned and executed the perfect wedding day for couples in the past.

   If you’re new to the industry, your NYIAD mentor is a great reference to list instead! Also be sure to include references from any events you’ve successfully planned in the past- not necessarily just weddings- if you’re a beginner and your reference list is still growing.

3. Portfolio

   Again, if you have any experience with planning events, it’s crucial for you to put together a small portfolio best demonstrating those efforts. Include photos, one of the invitations, a copy of the menu, your color palette- really the more small things you can include here to give the couple you’re speaking with a clearer picture of the small details you’re capable of executing, the better.

4. Vendors List

   Most professional wedding planners keep a list of vendors handy- one’s they personally have worked with in the past, had positive experiences with, and feel comfortable recommending to couples who are unsure where to start. From photographers and bakers to florists and DJs, any industry professionals you’re familiar with and trust, be sure to keep a list of. Things like this will legitimize your industry knowledge and experience in the eyes of a couple for whom all these details are likely entirely new.

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What To Bring to a Wedding Consultation

If you’re a recent wedding planning course graduate and new to the industry, your first consultation with a pair of potential clients can be an extremely nerve-wracking thing to plan for. But there’s no need to stress. Below, our expert wedding planners share 4 key things you should make sure to bring along for the meeting. As long as you come prepared with the items listed below, you can relax knowing you’re as prepared as any other industry pro would be. What To Bring to a Wedding Consultation

1. Wedding Questionnaire

   You should usually have a printed list of questions that can help guide you through this two-way interview with your potential clients. This will help you get the conversation going and gather some general information about key things like the size, style, budget and timeline of the couple’s wedding.

2. Client List

   Professional event planners typically keep a small portfolio containing some letters and testimonial-like notes written by couples they’ve worked with in the past. These sort of serve as resume references, giving your potential clients peace of mind knowing you’ve planned and executed the perfect wedding day for couples in the past.

   If you’re new to the industry, your NYIAD mentor is a great reference to list instead! Also be sure to include references from any events you’ve successfully planned in the past- not necessarily just weddings- if you’re a beginner and your reference list is still growing.

3. Portfolio

   Again, if you have any experience with planning events, it’s crucial for you to put together a small portfolio best demonstrating those efforts. Include photos, one of the invitations, a copy of the menu, your color palette- really the more small things you can include here to give the couple you’re speaking with a clearer picture of the small details you’re capable of executing, the better.

4. Vendors List

   Most professional wedding planners keep a list of vendors handy- one’s they personally have worked with in the past, had positive experiences with, and feel comfortable recommending to couples who are unsure where to start. From photographers and bakers to florists and DJs, any industry professionals you’re familiar with and trust, be sure to keep a list of. Things like this will legitimize your industry knowledge and experience in the eyes of a couple for whom all these details are likely entirely new.

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How Much Money Do Floral Designers Make?

If you’re interested in starting a career as a professional floral designer, it’s important for you to have a general idea of industry-standard salary averages. Especially as an amateur designer just getting started in the business, knowing what’s normal to charge clients is important- you don’t want to undersell your services to new customers, or accidentally overcharge people for your work.

In general, floral designers in the United States make about $50,000 per year (this figure reflects research completed as of October 30, 2017) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In terms of being paid an hourly rate, that translates to an average of $24 per hour.

This figure essentially demonstrates the middle ground of the industry, so it falls somewhere between the salaries earned by entry-level, first time beginners and industry pros who have been around for significantly longer and naturally earn much more.

Want to start a floral design business?

As is true of any profession, the amount of money you can expect to make as a floral designer depends mostly on the work dynamic you chose, and the amount of time you can commit to your craft. When we reference work dynamic, ask yourself- do you see yourself working in collaboration with a larger company such as an event or wedding planning firm? Will you be working full time, 5 days a week? Or do you want to be an independent florist, in which case- will you have your own brick and mortar flower shop? Will you work from home doing smaller freelance projects for residential clients? Will you do commercial arrangements for businesses or for events?

These are all questions you can answer throughout NYIAD’s floral design course as you start to develop your business plan and pricing models according to the future you see for yourself.

If you intend on working independently and charging clients per project, there are several things you’ll need to keep in mind when it comes to developing a fair cost model. Firstly, you always need to keep track of how much money you’re spending on supplies. Second, consider overhead costs. Do you work in a rented space? Did you buy your own commercial store? How much is your rent payment? Electricity and water bills?

These are all things you’ll need to consider when you determine how much your product is worth- the space it was created in counts. And finally, you need to value your own time. When you’re naming the price, always try to establish a rate that reflects the actual amount of time you spent creating the deliverable.

And finally, it’s also important to remember that location matters when it comes to salaries earned in any industry, floral design included. Fluctuations in buyer demographic, customer lifestyle and income etc. will always depend on upon the area in which you decide to sell your work. Therefore, you need to realize that the price at which you can reasonably list your floral arrangements may have to change depending on whether you’re selling in a small, rural town- or in a high end boutique in Manhattan.

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5 Genius Holiday Party Hacks

Via Harpers Bazaar

Do you want to start your own professional event planning business one day? If this has always been a dream of yours but you’re unsure how to get started, planning some parties for your families and friends can be a wonderful way to gain experience and grow your portfolio as you complete your event planning course.

As a student and aspiring professional, you should always have your future portfolio in mind, and be sure to take advantage of any opportunity to develop it. So very time you plan and execute an event of any kind, take plenty of pictures. From photos of menu choices to close-ups of décor, keep in mind that this is your chance to show potential clients why you’re worth working with- down to every last fabulous detail. So make sure these pictures are well-lit and clear.

Just in time for the holiday season, we came up with a list of our absolute favorite holiday party planning hacks for 2017 to help give you some festive inspiration. Here’s what we found:

Via Hawthorne and Main

Hot Chocolate Bar

This is an adorable, decorative buffet option for this year’s wintertime event of any kind. In the beautiful set-up pictured here, the planner went with some large, clear containers to hold all the drink accompaniments. We especially liked her choice of see-through bowls for this arrangement, simply because the toppings sort of look festive themselves, so it’s nice to keep them on display. As far as toppings go, she went with classic favorites such as candy canes and marshmallows, but you can get as creative as you’d like with yours.

It’s also worth noting that DIY menu choices are always an effective party planners’ pick because they give guests something to do. The key to a great party is to keeps the guests active as much as possible. So having them get up, experiment with these toppings and share their creations with one another adds an element of activity to the function unmatched by simply serving something premade- always a plus.

Via Taste of Home

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Wreath

This is a really simple DIY dessert option that we chose specifically for the event planner on a budget. Not only are all the ingredients super inexpensive and easy to find, it looks impressive and Instagram-worthy all the same.

Essentially, all you’ll need to do is make classic chocolate covered pretzels, simply using white melting chocolate chips dyed green, then arranged in a circle to look like a wintry wreath. Decorations are entirely up to you- this decorator used red and green sprinkles and a big red bow, but you can use any type of holiday candy you want for yours.

via Living Locurto

DIY Light Décor

We absolutely loved this inventive, jumbo-sized holiday light craft from the Living Locurto blog, and it’s sure to be a hit among guests at your event this year too. Not only that, it’s incredibly easy to make, and all you’ll need is balloons, curly green ribbon and dark green disposable cups.

If you want to go the extra mile for the wow-effect, you can actually head to Amazon or Walmart to find balloons that will literally glow- but as long as your event is taking place in a well-lit venue, regular balloons will look just fine too. Here’s a full tutorial on how to make this awesomely original craft.

via Mon Cheri Brides

Signature Cocktails

This drink was our 2017 pick for your holiday-themed signature cocktail. The presentation here looks absolutely incredible- festive, joyful and elegant all rolled into one. To make this wintry refresher, start by combining blackberries, sugar and water in a small saucepan. You’ll want to bring that to a boil (on high heat), then quickly reduce it to a slow simmer and let it heat for about 12 minutes. This will help those blackberries become nice and soft, and it’ll bring out a really beautiful, extra-deep color in them too. After those 12 minutes, you’ll be left with what should look like a purple-ish colored sugary syrup. Take it off the stove and remove the blackberries (but hold onto them for later) so you’re left with the syrup alone. Once cooled, simply spoon some syrup into a glass flute (these were rimmed with a beautiful, sparkling gold sugar) and top with champagne. Garnish with those blackberries from warlier and a sprig of rosemary, and you’re ready to impress those guests!

via Tip Buzz

Layered Jello Shots

The last hack on our list is only for the adults at your party-this awesome Jello shot looks incredible, and is sure to be a crowd pleaser amongst your partygoers. Here’s the full recipe tutorial on what ingredients you’ll need to buy and how these are properly layered and prepared.

The recipe is really fun to make, but be aware that it takes some time- so definitely allow a few hours of time for those layers to properly set. This probably shouldn’t be one of the party-prep items you leave for the day-of.

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How Much Money Do Floral Designers Make?

If you’re interested in starting a career as a professional floral designer, it’s important for you to have a general idea of industry-standard salary averages. Especially as an amateur designer just getting started in the business, knowing what’s normal to charge clients is important- you don’t want to undersell your services to new customers, or accidentally overcharge people for your work.

In general, floral designers in the United States make about $50,000 per year (this figure reflects research completed as of October 30, 2017) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In terms of being paid an hourly rate, that translates to an average of $24 per hour.

This figure essentially demonstrates the middle ground of the industry, so it falls somewhere between the salaries earned by entry-level, first time beginners and industry pros who have been around for significantly longer and naturally earn much more.

Want to start a floral design business?

As is true of any profession, the amount of money you can expect to make as a floral designer depends mostly on the work dynamic you chose, and the amount of time you can commit to your craft. When we reference work dynamic, ask yourself- do you see yourself working in collaboration with a larger company such as an event or wedding planning firm? Will you be working full time, 5 days a week? Or do you want to be an independent florist, in which case- will you have your own brick and mortar flower shop? Will you work from home doing smaller freelance projects for residential clients? Will you do commercial arrangements for businesses or for events?

These are all questions you can answer throughout NYIAD’s floral design course as you start to develop your business plan and pricing models according to the future you see for yourself.

If you intend on working independently and charging clients per project, there are several things you’ll need to keep in mind when it comes to developing a fair cost model. Firstly, you always need to keep track of how much money you’re spending on supplies. Second, consider overhead costs. Do you work in a rented space? Did you buy your own commercial store? How much is your rent payment? Electricity and water bills?

These are all things you’ll need to consider when you determine how much your product is worth- the space it was created in counts. And finally, you need to value your own time. When you’re naming the price, always try to establish a rate that reflects the actual amount of time you spent creating the deliverable.

And finally, it’s also important to remember that location matters when it comes to salaries earned in any industry, floral design included. Fluctuations in buyer demographic, customer lifestyle and income etc. will always depend on upon the area in which you decide to sell your work. Therefore, you need to realize that the price at which you can reasonably list your floral arrangements may have to change depending on whether you’re selling in a small, rural town- or in a high end boutique in Manhattan.

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Throw The Perfect Halloween Party

If you’re an aspiring event planner looking to grow your portfolio, planning holiday-themed parties can be a great way to get some practice. From coordinating color schemes and planning décor to finalizing a budget and picking out menu items, holiday party planning gives you an awesome opportunity to practice all these basic elements of organization and preparation. Not only that, by documenting the process and taking some nice photos of your finished work, you’re also building a beginner’s event planning portfolio that you can then share with potential paying clients in the future.

Just in time for Halloween this year, we’ve developed a simple round-up of our favorite DIY food and décor options to spark your creativity.

A Monstrous Menu

When it comes to themed parties, it’s especially important to incorporate the motif as much as possible throughout the day- including on the menu. Here are some seasonal snacks worth experimenting with on your 2017 Halloween party menu:

Via Inspiring Pretty

Guacamole is a simple, easy-to-make party staple that guests are always happy to see on the buffet table. Spice up your presentation in a spooky way this year with this clever jack-o-lantern DIY.

Via Beautifully Bella Faith

Here’s another quick way to take an everyday appetizer essential to the next level simply by putting some extra thought into how it will be displayed. If you’re grossed out by the idea of dumping your veggie dip directly into a hollowed-out pumpkin, simply pick out a small bowl, then buy a pumpkin in which (once hollowed-out) it can easily fit inside.

Via Babble

One of the easiest ways to make a handmade cocktail (or mocktail) look professional is to spend some extra time on the garnish- and this is one of the easiest options we’ve seen this year. Simply fill up an ice cube tray, then drop some spooky plastic spiders into each watery cube before you freeze.

Want to start a legitimate event planning business? Click here to learn how.

Disturbing Décor

In addition to any fall home décor you’ve already put out for the season, it’s important to add some special pops of Halloween-inspired looks throughout the space where your guests will be spending time.

Via Brit+Co

This DIY looks absolutely adorable and can be made within minutes (not to mention its super budget-friendly). Turn simple orange and white balloons into ghoulish ghosts or friendly jack-o-lanterns with a little creativity and a black sharpie.

Via The Kitchn

Want to hand out party favors to your guests? With this awesome idea, yours can double as table setting décor. Grab a handful of see-through plastic gloves and fill them with whatever type of candy you like. Add some plastic costume jewelry around the filled glove’s ring finger and lay them around the table for a mysterious (and tasty) treat every guest can throw in their bag on the way home.

Via Domino

This option is an event-planner’s favorite for the more chic and stylish Halloween parties on your calendar. This DIY couldn’t be easier, but looks incredibly elegant. Just fill up a handful of large, clear balloons, then once filled, wrap them in black tulle for a romantic yet ghostly effect.

Via ElleDecor

This is another fabulous décor option for your more sophisticated Halloween soiree. For a few months leading up to your event, hold onto any empty glass bottles you may have handy. Check out this DIY for a quick tutorial on cleaning them out and removing the labels- then simply add some skinny, sophisticated candlesticks inside to create an elegant haunted-mansion vibe.

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Throw The Perfect Halloween Party

If you’re an aspiring event planner looking to grow your portfolio, planning holiday-themed parties can be a great way to get some practice. From coordinating color schemes and planning décor to finalizing a budget and picking out menu items, holiday party planning gives you an awesome opportunity to practice all these basic elements of organization and preparation. Not only that, by documenting the process and taking some nice photos of your finished work, you’re also building a beginner’s event planning portfolio that you can then share with potential paying clients in the future.

Just in time for Halloween this year, we’ve developed a simple round-up of our favorite DIY food and décor options to spark your creativity.

A Monstrous Menu

When it comes to themed parties, it’s especially important to incorporate the motif as much as possible throughout the day- including on the menu. Here are some seasonal snacks worth experimenting with on your 2017 Halloween party menu:

Via Inspiring Pretty

Guacamole is a simple, easy-to-make party staple that guests are always happy to see on the buffet table. Spice up your presentation in a spooky way this year with this clever jack-o-lantern DIY.

Via Beautifully Bella Faith

Here’s another quick way to take an everyday appetizer essential to the next level simply by putting some extra thought into how it will be displayed. If you’re grossed out by the idea of dumping your veggie dip directly into a hollowed-out pumpkin, simply pick out a small bowl, then buy a pumpkin in which (once hollowed-out) it can easily fit inside.

Via Babble

One of the easiest ways to make a handmade cocktail (or mocktail) look professional is to spend some extra time on the garnish- and this is one of the easiest options we’ve seen this year. Simply fill up an ice cube tray, then drop some spooky plastic spiders into each watery cube before you freeze.

Want to start a legitimate event planning business? Click here to learn how.

Disturbing Décor

In addition to any fall home décor you’ve already put out for the season, it’s important to add some special pops of Halloween-inspired looks throughout the space where your guests will be spending time.

Via Brit+Co

This DIY looks absolutely adorable and can be made within minutes (not to mention its super budget-friendly). Turn simple orange and white balloons into ghoulish ghosts or friendly jack-o-lanterns with a little creativity and a black sharpie.

Via The Kitchn

Want to hand out party favors to your guests? With this awesome idea, yours can double as table setting décor. Grab a handful of see-through plastic gloves and fill them with whatever type of candy you like. Add some plastic costume jewelry around the filled glove’s ring finger and lay them around the table for a mysterious (and tasty) treat every guest can throw in their bag on the way home.

Via Domino

This option is an event-planner’s favorite for the more chic and stylish Halloween parties on your calendar. This DIY couldn’t be easier, but looks incredibly elegant. Just fill up a handful of large, clear balloons, then once filled, wrap them in black tulle for a romantic yet ghostly effect.

Via ElleDecor

This is another fabulous décor option for your more sophisticated Halloween soiree. For a few months leading up to your event, hold onto any empty glass bottles you may have handy. Check out this DIY for a quick tutorial on cleaning them out and removing the labels- then simply add some skinny, sophisticated candlesticks inside to create an elegant haunted-mansion vibe.

from New York Institute of Art and Design RSS Feed http://ift.tt/2ygi6pM

Studying Floral Design Online

When it comes to something as interactive and hands-on as DIY floral design, it can be hard to imagine how one could master this applied art through an online education. However, through the implementation of a state-of-the-art online learning center with hours of HD video lessons, plus the personal touch offered by daily access to a team of advisors here to walk you through every unit of the course, with NYIAD’s online floral design course, you could start learning today and be running a functional, profitable business by this time next year.

As with any comprehensive training program, our course was designed to take you back to the absolute beginning of floral design history. In order to be considered a truly knowledgeable industry expert, it’s important for proficient floral designers to understand the basics. From the beginning, we’ll talk about how to take care of flowers of all kinds, how to categorize the blooms you’ll organize in your workspace, and even how to make a checklist of all the crucial tools you should buy for a beginner’s studio.

Want to study floral design with NYIAD? Click here to check out the official course page.

Once you’re familiar with how your workspace should be set up and maintained, we will get into the history of floral design throughout the centuries. Looking centuries back in history, we can see how ancient peoples used floral design in a number of ornamental ways- from garlands and wreathes for special events to thoughtfully sprinkled flower petals along the ground at certain culturally meaningful occasions. Developing an understanding of how flowers and plants have impacted culture and the ways in which we decorate, embellish and celebrate will help you as an artist as you start to picture the many ways in which you’d like your creative style to unfold while developing a personal aesthetic.

Since all of NYIAD’s courses are entirely online, you get to decide when class is in session. You can login and read further into your assignments anytime and anywhere you’d like- as long as you have a device with internet access (yes, cell phones work too). Your online floral design course includes video, audio, and text lessons that you can refer back to whenever you need a refresher on any given topic. Plus, at the end of every unit you’ll get to complete a project demonstrating all the concepts we covered throughout that unit’s curriculum.

Jacqueline Elfe is our head floral design mentor, as well as the owner and operator of the NYC Floral Design company Stellar Style Events. Her floral design firm was established in 2007, and the work she’s done there has since been featured in It’s All About The Dress, New York Weddings, Ceci Style and Munaluchi Bride. That project you submit will be reviewed by mentors like Jaqueline, all working floral design professionals in the area who already have thriving careers in the industry and loads of knowledge and advice ready to share.

Towards the end of the course, we’ll get into all the specifics of launching your own business. As is true of many creative professionals, the artistic, hands-on aspect of the job comes naturally- but when it comes to business and marketing, that’s where we’re here to make sure you have what it takes to launch your own successful firm. From starting your own local business to simplifying your marketing strategy, we’ll walk you through every step of the process to ensure that not only are you ready to create your own designs, you’re ready to find the perfect clients to buy them.

from New York Institute of Art and Design RSS Feed http://ift.tt/2ywyJvs

Studying Floral Design Online

When it comes to something as interactive and hands-on as DIY floral design, it can be hard to imagine how one could master this applied art through an online education. However, through the implementation of a state-of-the-art online learning center with hours of HD video lessons, plus the personal touch offered by daily access to a team of advisors here to walk you through every unit of the course, with NYIAD’s online floral design course, you could start learning today and be running a functional, profitable business by this time next year.

As with any comprehensive training program, our course was designed to take you back to the absolute beginning of floral design history. In order to be considered a truly knowledgeable industry expert, it’s important for proficient floral designers to understand the basics. From the beginning, we’ll talk about how to take care of flowers of all kinds, how to categorize the blooms you’ll organize in your workspace, and even how to make a checklist of all the crucial tools you should buy for a beginner’s studio.

Want to study floral design with NYIAD? Click here to check out the official course page.

Once you’re familiar with how your workspace should be set up and maintained, we will get into the history of floral design throughout the centuries. Looking centuries back in history, we can see how ancient peoples used floral design in a number of ornamental ways- from garlands and wreathes for special events to thoughtfully sprinkled flower petals along the ground at certain culturally meaningful occasions. Developing an understanding of how flowers and plants have impacted culture and the ways in which we decorate, embellish and celebrate will help you as an artist as you start to picture the many ways in which you’d like your creative style to unfold while developing a personal aesthetic.

Since all of NYIAD’s courses are entirely online, you get to decide when class is in session. You can login and read further into your assignments anytime and anywhere you’d like- as long as you have a device with internet access (yes, cell phones work too). Your online floral design course includes video, audio, and text lessons that you can refer back to whenever you need a refresher on any given topic. Plus, at the end of every unit you’ll get to complete a project demonstrating all the concepts we covered throughout that unit’s curriculum.

Jacqueline Elfe is our head floral design mentor, as well as the owner and operator of the NYC Floral Design company Stellar Style Events. Her floral design firm was established in 2007, and the work she’s done there has since been featured in It’s All About The Dress, New York Weddings, Ceci Style and Munaluchi Bride. That project you submit will be reviewed by mentors like Jaqueline, all working floral design professionals in the area who already have thriving careers in the industry and loads of knowledge and advice ready to share.

Towards the end of the course, we’ll get into all the specifics of launching your own business. As is true of many creative professionals, the artistic, hands-on aspect of the job comes naturally- but when it comes to business and marketing, that’s where we’re here to make sure you have what it takes to launch your own successful firm. From starting your own local business to simplifying your marketing strategy, we’ll walk you through every step of the process to ensure that not only are you ready to create your own designs, you’re ready to find the perfect clients to buy them.

from New York Institute of Art and Design RSS Feed http://ift.tt/2ywyJvs

How Much Do Wedding Planners Make Per Wedding?

Many aspiring wedding planners reach out to us with questions about how they’ll be paid. If you’re considering making an investment in our online wedding planning course, it’s definitely worth knowing what the return will be once you start working in the field. Below we share some general, standard payment structures used to compensate wedding planners in the current market:

Wedding Consultation Price:

If you’re working as a consultant for a couple, you will typically bill your clients by the hour. This type of work basically consists of you and the clients having some meetings together in which you, as the local industry expert, answer any questions they may have about their big day. From coordinating the perfect color scheme to picking the best local caterer to fit their budget needs, you are spending time with them as an expert there to point them in the right direction as they essentially plan their own event with your guidance.

If a couple ever schedules a consultation with you, this is a great opportunity to showcase your industry knowledge, your strong experience and reliable relationships with vendors in the area. By demonstrating your understanding and dependability throughout this meeting, you’re highly increasing the chances that said couple will feel more secure simply booking you for some additional services rather than going it alone. However, keep in mind that the clients are paying you by the hour for your consultation and advice, not for you to pitch your services- so save that conversation for the end of the meeting, otherwise you might annoy the couple.

Generally, wedding planners charge anywhere from $40-$70 per hour for their consulting services. This number also depends on where in the world your firm is located. If you work in a more metropolitan area like New York City, market rate will be more like $100-$200 per hour. Before naming your price, look up some local wedding planners who already have established businesses, check how much they charge, and try to offer something similar.

Day-Of Wedding Coordination Price:

If a couple decides to hire you for Day Of Coordination, this means that again, the couple will likely be planning the majority of the event without your help, but they would like you there on the big day to offer help in any way you can. You’ll help with things like creating the day’s schedule, coordinating with vendors to ensure timeliness and seamless delivery and setup, etc. Most wedding planners charge anywhere from $600-$900 for this service. However, if you’re working in a metropolitan area, this price would likely be more like $1,200 - $2,000. When naming your price, it’s also worth fluctuating slightly depending on the event itself. If the wedding will be fairly small and held all in one location, you might consider charging less than if it’s a huge number of guests who will be moving from place to place between the ceremony and reception.

Full Service Wedding Planning Cost:

If the couple wants to hire you for a full service wedding planning, this is where you’ll make the most money. These clients are essentially giving you full creative control of the big day- from developing the aesthetic concept to executing it day-of. Full service planners recommend all the vendors, the venue options, the décor, sometimes even the attire. If you’re hired to plan a wedding full-service, you should charge $2,000-$3,000 if you’re in a more rural area, but upwards of $10,000 depending on your location’s market and the wedding size. If you’re a NYIAD student and you’re not sure how much to charge potential clients for your services, just call your mentor, explain the details of the event and we’ll help you develop the perfect pricing model.

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How Much Do Wedding Planners Make Per Wedding?

Many aspiring wedding planners reach out to us with questions about how they’ll be paid. If you’re considering making an investment in our online wedding planning course, it’s definitely worth knowing what the return will be once you start working in the field. Below we share some general, standard payment structures used to compensate wedding planners in the current market:

Wedding Consultation Price:

If you’re working as a consultant for a couple, you will typically bill your clients by the hour. This type of work basically consists of you and the clients having some meetings together in which you, as the local industry expert, answer any questions they may have about their big day. From coordinating the perfect color scheme to picking the best local caterer to fit their budget needs, you are spending time with them as an expert there to point them in the right direction as they essentially plan their own event with your guidance.

If a couple ever schedules a consultation with you, this is a great opportunity to showcase your industry knowledge, your strong experience and reliable relationships with vendors in the area. By demonstrating your understanding and dependability throughout this meeting, you’re highly increasing the chances that said couple will feel more secure simply booking you for some additional services rather than going it alone. However, keep in mind that the clients are paying you by the hour for your consultation and advice, not for you to pitch your services- so save that conversation for the end of the meeting, otherwise you might annoy the couple.

Generally, wedding planners charge anywhere from $40-$70 per hour for their consulting services. This number also depends on where in the world your firm is located. If you work in a more metropolitan area like New York City, market rate will be more like $100-$200 per hour. Before naming your price, look up some local wedding planners who already have established businesses, check how much they charge, and try to offer something similar.

Day-Of Wedding Coordination Price:

If a couple decides to hire you for Day Of Coordination, this means that again, the couple will likely be planning the majority of the event without your help, but they would like you there on the big day to offer help in any way you can. You’ll help with things like creating the day’s schedule, coordinating with vendors to ensure timeliness and seamless delivery and setup, etc. Most wedding planners charge anywhere from $600-$900 for this service. However, if you’re working in a metropolitan area, this price would likely be more like $1,200 - $2,000. When naming your price, it’s also worth fluctuating slightly depending on the event itself. If the wedding will be fairly small and held all in one location, you might consider charging less than if it’s a huge number of guests who will be moving from place to place between the ceremony and reception.

Full Service Wedding Planning Cost:

If the couple wants to hire you for a full service wedding planning, this is where you’ll make the most money. These clients are essentially giving you full creative control of the big day- from developing the aesthetic concept to executing it day-of. Full service planners recommend all the vendors, the venue options, the décor, sometimes even the attire. If you’re hired to plan a wedding full-service, you should charge $2,000-$3,000 if you’re in a more rural area, but upwards of $10,000 depending on your location’s market and the wedding size. If you’re a NYIAD student and you’re not sure how much to charge potential clients for your services, just call your mentor, explain the details of the event and we’ll help you develop the perfect pricing model.

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How To Plan Vacation Outfits

Many personal stylists are approached by clients who are looking for assistance prepping outfits for very specific functions. From parties and work gatherings to weddings and special trips, there are plenty of particular events people often need guidance dressing for. One of our favorites to help with? Vacation looks. Getting started, there are a few very general guidelines we suggest you adhere to when it comes to offering clients travel-worthy style tips:

Find a Functional Dress

First of all, it’s important to stick with essentials when putting together your initial travel bag. We recommend picking a basic black dress as your first item. For daytime style, you can layer a cute, loose chambray shirt and scarf overtop and pair it with sunglasses and sneakers for a comfortable, casual look. For an upscale night out the same dress can be paired with some heels and a statement necklace for an elegant, dressed-up alternative.

Don’t Forget Denim

Jeans are also a super versatile addition to any travel wardrobe. For exploring and sightseeing during the afternoon, they can pair with a basic tank, long beaded necklace and pair of casual sneakers like converse or Adidas for a simple, on the go look. At nighttime, you can pull out that same pair of heels we mentioned in the previous example and swap out the tank for a flowy, dressier blouse for a flirty, sophisticated evening look.

Small Glam Updates

Especially if your client doesn’t have a ton of suitcase or carry-on room to work with, it’s important to remember that simple accessory updates can go a long way in altering the look and feel of a basic outfit, without taking up a ton of room. Think about adding small accessories like colorful scarves, interesting sunglasses, bold statement necklaces or even colorful tights (weather permitting) if you need to include outfit updates without taking up too much room.

Do Your Research

For experienced personal stylists this is an obvious tip, but you’d be surprised how many travelers forget to check the weather forecast right before they head out. Even if a certain location typically experiences sunny, clear weather during the summer, you never know when a trip will happen to fall on a rainy week. And if it does, we’re sure your client won’t be happy walking around with damp feet in open-toes sandals. Be prepared- plan their outfits ahead of time as you normally would, but make sure to check their weather forecast right before they’re about to leave and make any appropriate adjustments if necessary.

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