I am a stickler for professionalism. I want words spelled correctly. I want grammar to be correct, and I want consistency throughout a document (Lord, I hope everything’s ok with this one!). When it comes to vendors, I keep a checklist handy with all their names on it and space for notes where I can evaluate their performance. It might seem time consuming, but it actually saves me a lot of time in the long run. When I know “Joe” didn’t do what he promised in a timely fashion, or in the alternative, did a stellar job all the way through, I make note of it. Just like evaluating your employees, there is something innately positive in evaluating outside service providers. You can also think of this as a way to help determine if your vendor is invested in your business relationship above and beyond the “terms” of any agreement, written or otherwise, and whether they are making the most of their opportunity to work with you.

1. Appointments Honored. This should go with out saying. We are all busy and have 1,001 things going on in our lives. If you can’t rely on your vendor to be there for an appointment that you made and confirmed, then you have to move on. Once or twice I can forgive, begrudgingly, however, any more than that, and my three strikes rule comes in to play. A missed appointment costs you time, which translates into money. You bill for your time one way or another, right? By the vendor not coming through for your meeting, you potentially missed out on income that you could have been making. You might say, “Well, I didn’t have anything lined up anyway,” but being a small business owner, we are always out there trying to make money – meeting people, creating proposals, working on our annual forecasts, setting goals (you are doing all of that aren’t you? See, that’s why you can’t afford to have flaky people around!)

2. Speed and Quality of Service. I am not a diva by any means. Well, okay, maybe a little bit, but when I am, I really don’t like myself for it. It’s much better to be professional, calm and cool under pressure. But I when I am working with a party rental agency or a staffing company, I want to know that my calls, emails, and faxes are dealt with promptly. My representative should know what they are talking about, and correctly fill out my order paperwork the first time around, legibly and accurately. I don’t want to have to take the time to start correcting their work and worry about mistakes that will end up costing me down the road. What if the person on the other end of the phone forgets to get a permit when they promised to do so? Your entire event can be shut down as a result.

3. Timely Deliveries. Bottom line, are my goods being delivered to the correct place at the appointed time? Timelines (within reason) must be kept to! If someone is running late, they need to call you. Make sure all of your vendors (and their drivers!) have the name and cell phone number of the person on site designated to receive the delivery. This is beyond imperative. I pad the timeline so we can set up everything without having to rush. But you know as well as I do that nothing ever goes as planned, so I stay on top of my vendors and start checking in with them once Cinderella is more than 10 minutes late. Can you imagine a party with no place to sit and no ice for the drinks? Having these things delivered 15 minutes before or after a party is set to begin is a sure fire way to lose a client or at the very least, bust a valve. Don’t work with people who are too loosey goosey with the time.

4. Contract Terms Adhered To. Seems simple enough. The contract calls for 100 chairs at $4.00 per chair. I don’t want to see a final bill that says 100 chairs at $4.25 per chair after the event is over. An agreement is an agreement (by the way, this goes for you too. You must honor your word. Mistakes happen so pony up and pay for them if you or your staff are the cause). You can’t pass on these costs to your client once all is signed off at a certain price. Because I know my vendors, I don’t have to go over the terms again and again, but believe me, when I first started out with them, I might have sounded like a broken record and they were perhaps, a bit annoyed with me, but I was prepared to pay that price. Once you start sending more business your vendor’s way, they should be more than happy to review anything you want as long as you communicate clearly, professionally and within a timely manner.

5. Crunch Mode Assistance. Every so often an emergency will come up that you don’t expect. (Actually, do you ever expect an emergency? I guess I kind of always expect emergencies, I just don’t know which ones are going to show up!) It is part of life and it is certainly part of the party planning experience. I look at my vendor relationships as partnerships. I would hope that they would be able to react to my needs when I call them. I certainly understand that not everything is possible and educating myself about their segment of the business really makes a big difference in reducing errors. If you’re not sure how far ahead your caterer needs the food count, your rental company needs to be advised of changes or your florist needs a deposit, ASK! Decide that you’re going to be in this business for the long hall and work with your vendors so that they love hearing from you.

6. That Little Bit More Than Necessary. This follows up on #5. Beyond “crunch mode assistance,” do my vendors do other things for me that make it easier for my company to conduct business? Do they call me with discounts and/or specials? Do they let me know when new products come in that are fresh and exciting or that they think my clientele would like? Will they hold the showroom open a bit later than normal so I can come by after my last appointment if I’m in a scramble to pull off a miracle? Have they referred my business? No company has to do these things, however, it would be very smart of them to do this. My vendors let me know that I am important to their business. They go above and beyond what I expect, and I truly appreciate it. Remember this is a two way relationship. If you make money, then they make money since you will be using them more. They rely on you as much as you do on them. Be grateful to them, show your appreciation (never underestimate the value of a personal note to say thank you. This really can’t happen enough.)

Leading Entertainment Expert, Entrepreneur, TV Personality, Coach, Author and Sought After Speaker, Marley Majcher is CEO of The Party Goddess! and publisher of the ezine, “How To Be A Party Goddess”. If you are ready to take your career or business to the next level, make more money and just be happier with your work life, then get your free tips on how to be a rockin’ event planner at www.howtobeapartygoddess.com

Thanks for reading!!

Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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I have been fortunate enough to work with an AMAZING helicopter company in the Canadian Rockies to create the perfect packages for brides seeking a stress free, adventurous and romantic Helicopter Wedding. Alpine Helicopters offers a one of a kind service launching brides to the top of the world – literally! Not only do you get a fantastic view with Alpine but you get free smiles too.

View our packages:
Exclusive Helicopter Elopement
Diamond Helicopter Wedding
Fantasy Helicopter Wedding

Contact Alpine Helicopters Ltd.
www.alpinehelicopter.com
403.678.4802

Thanks for reading!

Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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A recent Brice & Groom worked with John Bonner at the Chateau Lake Louise. Yokko & Bruce really loved the photos! It was really a challenge to capture this social day with a little bit of rain but Andrew Dickinson of Bonner Photography did it & did it well!!!

This is some of the spectacular work that was produced to keep these special memories in style!

Lefroy is absolutely perfect for that classy intimate wedding!

Click here to see the rest of the facebook album!

Thanks for reading!

Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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Helicopter Wedding Packing List

Hiking Boots
Wind & Water Resistant Jacket
Hats
Sun Glasses
Warm Clothing
Socks
Gloves
Beauty Packing List

Comb
Hair Spray
Mini Mirror
Sweet Occasions Bridal Survival Kit
Bridal Shoes (stilettos are not advisable)
Packable Veil (if you prefer)

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Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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Mt. Charles Stewart alpine meadow
Included in standard flight & your package
From Canmore we fly north to 7500ft above Timberline. This is an open alpine district with breathtaking mountains to the west. Not only are their beautiful mountains to see but often we will be greeted by wild animals roaming the land. After the wedding ceremony there is plenty of time for photographs, exploring and a romantic mountain top picnic.

Rocky Ridges Hike
An upgrade to the standard flight
From Canmore we fly north to the remote wilderness, behind Grotto Mountain to the higher end of cougar creek. If weather is permitting we will be landing approximately 8500ft high and walk the length of a magnificent ridge (lower hikes are also possible). This is a three hour long journey and all members of the ceremony must be in decent physical shape as the elevation is quite high, the terrain is rough and there are no trails to follow. Please take the appropriate measures to avoid altitude sickness.

Marvel Pass, Glaciers and Timberline
An upgrade to the standard flight
From Canmore we fly south to pass the Three Sisters Mountains, over the Spray lakes reservoir to Marvel Lake and the legendary Mount Assinbone. The pilot will take you in for a close up on the hanging glaciers before heading towards Marvel Pass. We are then dropped off at 7200 ft close to Cabin Lake. This flight shows you an exceptional view and takes a longer more dazzling flight path.

Helicopter Tour
An upgrade to the standard flight
Why not add a Helicopter tour to your flight? Experience the best of the Bow Valley from the highest places possible. Ask your wedding planner about the different tours available.

Beautiful Helicopter Wedding Packages Here!

Thanks for reading!

Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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Off Season

Off season is February, March and April.  During these months the helicopter will stay on site and not return to its base.  Ceremonies are limited to an hour in length. Mt. Charles Stewart Alpine Meadow and Marvel Pass are the only two locations available and are only able to accommodate a maximum of 6 people.  Helicopter weddings are not available in November, December and January because it is simply too cold.   Also in May there is simply too much snow and the base will be too soft causing damage to the vegetation and weddings are not advised.

Group Size

The cost of flights will be based on how long the flight is and will reflect if a whether alternative must be chosen on the day of the wedding.  The wedding ceremonies require a total of 5 people, the bride, the groom, the marriage commissioner and 2 witnesses.

Time

Wedding ceremonies may be booked for either 8:30am or 1:30 pm. The ceremony generally takes three hours and the weather is usually much calmer in the morning.

Days of Operation

Thursday, Friday or Sunday.  Other days are available however, choosing another day will result in the loss of one helicopter seat as there will need to be a commissioner and a mandatory guide.

Whether Alternative Ground Location

If the weather is not cooperating on the day of the wedding a flight may not be possible.  You and your wedding planner will discuss a Plan B prior to the wedding day to be able execute the wedding under poor whether circumstances at an alternate ground location.  It is to be understood that this may happen due to forces of nature and you must prepare mentally for this situation to arise.  This situation does not have to “rain on your parade”, this is a special day and you are with the person that you love the most – and what else really matters?  We will find a beautiful and intimate location to satisfy your ceremony needs and keep you safe!

Amazing Helicopter Wedding Packages in the Mountains!  Click here!

Thanks for reading!

Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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Upon arrival at the helicopter landing base you will attend a safety briefing. During this briefing you will watch a video and will learn what you need to know to keep you safe during this exciting and dangerous adventure. It is very important that you adhere to all safety guidelines at all time, regardless of how eager or excited you may be! Please listen to your guide`s instruction intently and follow all directions at all time.

Helicopter Weddings are ALWAYS FUN!!

Sometimes things don’t go as smoothly as planned. Mountain weather is known for being unpredictable and can change drastically in a matter of seconds. If the weather at your chosen location is not stellar, a different and safer location may be available. It is always good to have an alternate location in mind in the case that this situation may arise.

Helicopters also have the obligation to answer emergency calls and therefore wedding schedules are always able to be kept. This can result in being on top of the mountain longer than expected. It’s best to be prepared for this satiation and you must bring both protective gear and hiking boots. It is also advisable to bring warm water & wind resistant clothing even on the hottest of days as the temperature on top of the mountain will be lower than on the ground.

The ceremony can be performed in a wedding gown and suit, however, during flight and flight loading all loose items must be secured. Veils must be packed away until arrival at ceremony locations and princesses beware: your hair will get blown by the helicopter – there’s no way to avoid it so please take appropriate measures.

There is also a risk of altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a pathological effect of high altitude on the human body caused by acute exposure to low air pressure. It commonly occurs above 8,000 feet. Symptoms include nausea, dizzies or light-headedness, pins & needles, shortness of breath, peripheral edema (swelling of hands, feet & face), drowsiness, and fatigue. To avoid this condition it is advisable to stay in the Rockies for a couple days before the wedding to get used to the altitude change, as well as drink lots of water and avoid alcohol & strenuous activity. If you begin to experience any of the above symptoms please advise your guide immediately.

Fantastic Helicoptrer Wedding Packages Here!

Thanks for reading!

Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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Four Hidden Jems of the Rockies with pictures

 

Hidden Jems of the Rockies

 

Bridal Fantasy Magazine

Released January 2009

You’ve found the perfect guy – you know that. Now the challenge is finding the perfect place to say “I do.” Welcome to the Canadian Rockies.

 

 

 

 

 

Canada’s most spectacular mountain range offers awe-inspiring landscapes that will enhance the romance of your big day and wow your guests so that everyone has a truly unique experience to remember.

Best of all, the beauty of the Rockies will add to the intimacy as you and your groom formally confirm your love. And what better place to say “I do” than on or beside the pristine surface of a glittering mountain lake, or thousands of feet above the spectacular mountain valleys of Banff National Park.

 

The Rockies have it all when it comes to romance, and with the help of an expert wedding planner, so can you. Here are some of the best picks of Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting if you’re tying the knot in a mountain paradise.

 

Helicopter Wedding

If you’re looking for adventure and intimacy, a heli wedding is a great option. From its base at Saskatchewan River Crossing north of Lake Louise, Icefield Heli Tours can whisk you and your loved ones to spectacular settings such as the Lake of the Falls, the Wedding Knolls and Twin Falls. Lake of the Falls, a turquoise-coloured lake that will take your breath away, delivers a supernatural setting surrounded by hundreds of glittering waterfalls. A mountain wedding ceremony doesn’t mean you’ll have to rough it however, as catering for up to 140 people can be provided on site. The Wedding Knolls, high up on a mountain top, offer endless vistas and the highest wedding site imaginable. Twin Falls and its famous Wedding Rock are a first-class ticket to intimacy for those willing to take a 10-minute hike from the helicopter landing site. A key for heli weddings is being prepared for what Mother Nature might serve you on your day and that means an experienced wedding planner is a must.

Emerald Lake Lodge

Brides wanting spectacular scenery, privacy and world-class amenities for their guests will be thrilled with this picturesque venue just inside the B.C. border in Yoho National Park. Situated on a peninsula overlooking gorgeous Emerald Lake, the lodge offers an intimate wedding paradise able to accommodate large groups. You can book the entire lodge for your guests, adding to the privacy of your big day on the shoreline of one of Canada’s true jewel lakes. Fine wine and outstanding food and service are hallmarks of this full-service mountain retreat.

Lake Minnewanka

If you’d rather say “I do” on the water than beside it, then Sweet Occasions can book you on an exclusive Minnewanka Boat Tours wedding cruise. A wedding for up to 30 guests on this gorgeous lake 10 minutes from the Banff townsite comes complete with options such as wine and cheese or hors-d’oeuvres and champagne. Unlike higher mountain venues, Lake Minnewanka can offer warmth and beauty even on an early fall day.

Moraine Lake

This spectacular mountain lake 15 kilometres uphill from Lake Louise Village offers unbeatable scenery in an accessible venue. It will complement your personal glow on your big day and wow guests from near and far. Only the bride will be more beautiful than the setting – a crystal clear turquoise lake, a valley hemmed in by 10 lofty mountain peaks, and a hanging valley of larches beneath the third highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Temple.

A romantic wedding in the Rockies is within your reach, but looking after the details – everything from helicopter logistics to special permits from Parks Canada can be a challenge. That’s why having an experienced expert on your side is important.

Angela Schrempf of Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting can be reached in the Rockies at 403-678-6366 or via e-mail at angela@sweetoccasionsbanff.com.

 

 

www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

 

Photos Provided by Bonner Photography

 

Thanks for reading!

Angela Schrempf
Executive Wedding Planner
Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting
www.sweetoccasionsbanff.com

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What are Brides, Grooms, friends & family saying about Expert Wedding Planner Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting?

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Angela Schrempf wrote:

Creating an Eco Chic Wedding

By Executive Wedding Planner Angela Schrempf

Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting

Banff National Park located in Alberta Canada is no doubt one of the most beautiful protected areas in all of North America.  A perfect setting for a luxurious wedding or an intimate elopement, the Banff National Park offers world class accommodations, dining & scenery that is completely unmatched.  The preservation of this gorgeous landscape is paramount and brides enjoying the Rockies can do a few small things to help preserve this beautiful place for their children.

Here are some fantastic tips to save the environment and some money:

Venues

• Host your wedding in National Park or natural reserve.  This is a great environmentally friendly choice; not to mention makes an amazing backdrop for your wedding!
• Host your ceremony and reception in one place, reducing the amount of fuel emissions used by the guests and the cost of venue rentals.  Buffalo Mountain Lodge & Emerald Lake Lodge are fantastic venues that offer beautiful natural ceremony & reception locations & lodging.  For the Princess Brides the Castle in the Mountains Fairmont Banff Springs also offers posh ceremony & reception venues and world class accommodations!

Lindsay & Daniel enjoy a natural ceremony in the heart of the Rockies.  Created by Sweet Occasions Bridal Consulting.

Photography by Peak Photography.

Vendors

• Hire local vendors. The less transportation, the lower the vendor cost!
• As a wedding planner specializing in the Canadian Rockies I know that each vendor in my community can provide the same service & specializing in the Rockies.  Vendors from out of town will charge you more for their gas & travel time and will not have as much experience in the Rockies as local vendors.  Support the local economy and save yourself some money with our local vendors.

Design & Decor

• Look for soy candles, they’re made from a renewable resource, are cleaner and longer burning than regular candles.  Avoid those nasty table cloth cleaning charges at your venue because spills are easy to clean – just use soap and hot water!
• For the invitations & stationary use paper that has a high-recycled content or print your invites on a gift of seed paper.  Guest can plant your stationary and enjoy beautiful flowers!
• For placement cards pluck leaves from trees and handwrite the guest’s names on each leaf, add an shiny silk ribbon at the stem and tie the leaf around the napkin for the perfect natural touch!
• Give life to your guests with little seedling trees as favors.  As your love grows so will the trees and your guests will always remember how spectacular your wedding was every time they see their tree!
• 

Fashion

• Consider purchasing a gown made of natural eco-fabrics like silk and hemp.  You could also please your budget by purchasing a used gown or wearing a family member’s gown.
• For your rings choose silver instead of gold. Silver mining has a much lower impact on our environment and there are plenty of gemstones besides diamonds to choose from which are equally beautiful and are one of the latest trends!

Transportation

• If your wedding is near the water instead of leaving in a limo leave your ceremony in a canoe!   Couples can also departed on depart in a horse drawn carriage, sleigh, or even on bicycles.
• Book a shuttle bus for guests.  Guests flying in will be happy that they don’t have to rent a vehicle and you will be helping the environment.  If vehicles are necessary consider carpooling in hybrid vehicles.

Photo by Peak Photography.

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