One of the biggest perks in being a wedding planner is that no job is ever the same. Each couple brings different ideas and challenges to the table. I also feel that in many ways I’ve been through the Wedding Olympics. I planned one wedding in 48 hours, and two weddings on the same night. But this isn’t about me…
Rick and Lauren were my most recent couple, and they established a new milestone. Even though we planned their wedding for close to two years, I didn’t meet these lovebirds until the day before.
We initially connected over the phone when they inquired to have their wedding at a raw space in Chelsea. As they realized things like bringing in lighting and draping were more than they wanted to commit to, they asked me how they could have a Manhattan wedding on a more modest budget. I suggested some turn-key venues that include everything and don’t require a planner. They landed at Battery Gardens Restaurant and asked if I would still guide them through the process. They live in Seattle and would not be taking a trip to New York until the wedding. Two months before the wedding I attended their tasting with two of their friends and we photographed all the dishes and gave Rick and Lauren our top picks.
As I worked with them on giving their wedding some flourish beyond what Battery Gardens provides, I got to know their love story. The designer in me tried to get them to go for more, but what was truly being celebrated was more simple. Lauren had lost both of her parents in recent years, and this wedding would honor them and remind all who were present that we never forget. But we must move forward, even with tears, and still express our gratitude for what we do have.
Rick and Lauren thanked me in their toast for pulling off the New York wedding of their dreams. The truth of the matter is that I thank them. They reminded me why I was drawn to being a wedding planner to begin with, and that nothing creates a bigger “wow” effect than when you have that kind of love in a room shared by family and friends.
Photos by Da Ping Luo.
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