Week 5- wedding drama

     This past weekend was a busy one for me! We had a big '30s themed wedding to get ready for on top of moving inventory out of the company warehouse. After this weekend I learned that each client you deal with is going to vary from the next. Working constantly with people leaves a lot of room for unpredictability. In the event planning/wedding business, things can go wonderfully or terribly. No matter the outcome or situation you find yourself in, you have to adapt and do the best that you can. The couple this particular weekend was known to run on a different clock than the rest of us. Despite showing up late for everything, we ran through the rehearsal then got back down to work. Normally the set up can be done on site and with many hours of preparation, but the venue this weekend was extremely strict. Magnolia Plantation only allowed us a few hours of set up before the wedding. All of the flower arrangements (which was a lot believe me) had to be prepared off site then transported to the venue which was thirty minutes away. Transporting delicate flowers and glassware is no easy task. We hit a few speed bumps in the whole process. At first one of the giant "kissing globes" which is a giant sphere of flower heads fell in the car and had to be redone. Mind you, these things weight almost 10 pounds and are very delicate. On top of the flower fiasco, when we arrived at the venue a whole box of mercury and red glassware fell out of the car and shattered. In this situation we had to brush off the losses and continue to make the decorations as beautiful as possible with what we had. Later that day after everything has been set up and things are calming down, guests walked over from the ceremony to join the reception party. Right off the bat an elderly guest sits at a table and the jar that the kissing globe was on fell over and shattered. Quick to think I had to apologize to the guest, clean up the mess, and improvise. So we sat the globes directly on the table and they still looked beautiful. So some problems to overcome in the wedding industry so far are: late brides, too many flowers, dead flowers, and broken glass. I have also failed to mention the misery that can come with doing an outdoor wedding in the middle of summer in Charleston, bring your bug-spray and a bucket of ice water to dunk your face in. One last tip for brides to be, never rely on technology when it is needed. The couple had the cutest little silent movie they made to played on repeat during the reception. However, the whole time I was running back and forth to the movie tent trying to reboot the system because it kept shutting off unexpectedly. Despite all of the problems that arose, the wedding turned out beautifully just like all of Blue Planet Green Event's weddings do!

     The way these types of companies work is based on a rental/installation system. BPGE has a lot of their own inventory that the couples can rent, and the rest of the vendors are set up through the company. After clearing out the warehouse this weekend I got to see all of the different sets of antique jars, mason jars, different types of glass ware, different sets of vases, and all of the candles and different candle holders. Eventually, when I start my own event planning company, I will carefully choose the inventory that I purchase. Most of Blue Planet's inventory has a very rustic and southern charm to it. These style items are perfect for the specific clientele that take part in Blue Planet weddings. When couples pay for their weddings, the payments are made in separate installations leading up to the big day. Unfortunately, there was recently a couple who called off their wedding. The couple was no longer expected to carry out payments, but the previous payments are not refunded.

     I've already shared my most memorable experiences for this week, and in the next few weeks I do not have another wedding to work. Instead I will be putting my marketing and PR knowledge to the test in the office. I will most likely be doing some website blogs, Instagram posts, Facebook updates, and any other promotion help they may need. I look forward to experimenting with advertisement and marketing practices and learning more about the back end of event planning. This internship has definitely been a learning one, both spoken and experiential. 

Until Next Time, 

Jessica

Week 4 Blog: Fundraiser

   

     Since the company I am working for does not have any particular window displays I will try to adapt and use a different display of theirs. Since weddings are constantly filled with changing arrangements, displays, and different aesthetics so much creativity and ingenuity is involved in the process. So much goes into the decor at weddings and rehearsals because it brings the entire aesthetic of the event to life. Creativity from the planner and the bride and groom's visions are combined in order to create the perfect day. The table settings and decorations at Blue Planet's weddings reflect the eco-friendly/rustic preference of its clients. Their style is very soft and beautiful. Using color schemes of the couple's preferences, Blue Planet uses a mixture of mason jars, fresh flowers, vibrant greenery, spanish moss, and battery powered candles. Their style is farm chic which blends in beautifully to the picturesque surroundings. By hiring professional photographers to shoot on scene at the wedding, potential future clients looking for event planners can visualize different styles and options. Also, we have sent multiple links of online photo albums to magazines for publication and advertisement. 

     I would be able to make a lot of suggestions marketing wise, but other than that the decor of the wedding is basically up to the couple's preferences and feasible options. Any advertising is good advertising however, it depends on the company's budget. With technology today, free publicity is easily attainable. There are many online outlets that will post your events and pictures for free. Facebook and a personal website are Blue Planet's biggest public outlets of advertisement. 
     Last Thursday we finally had the fundraising event for the American Lung Association. The event went great and all of the guests in attendance had a blast! Lori, one of the owners is the one who brought the benefit to life. It was at an art gallery, with many raffle prizes, a dj, a band, food and libations. After the event was over she was so relieved that it was a success. It was great to see her hard work paying off for a cause that she has a strong tie to. The funniest thing that happened was when guests were clearing out and Lori and one of her friends got into a mini-food fight. It was great to see how much fun they were having on the job. I have a huge wedding coming up this weekend that I am very excited about. The days are long and extremely busy, but I know there is a lot to be learned and these ladies are helping me every step of the way.

Here's a little Pinterest board I did for BPGE...

How to make the most of your big day when the rain comes to play! Enjoy

Rainy Wedding Saves

10 Steps to a Green Wedding

Week Number Two
Blue Planet Green Events

Sierra. (2007, March 29). Retrieved on June 1, 2013 from: http://sierraclub.typepad.com/greenlife/2007/03/10_steps_to_a_g.html
   
     This article may be a little out of date considering it was written in 2007, but I chose to use it anyway because it touches on some great points that were left out in my last current event. This just goes to show there is never a limit when it comes to alternatives while striving to reach a green wedding. Every wedding can implement a different level of eco-friendly practice, and it is up to you and your wedding planner to decide what your footprint will be. The following ten steps are all about how to plan a green wedding.
1. With this ring...
     Be sure to start off on the right foot with the right ring. Be sure to avoid "Blood Diamonds" with a certifiably safe engagement ring. Whether your hubby to be finds a vintage ring, lab-created diamond, peacefully mined ring, or certified "conflict-free ring" you are safe.
2. Location, location, location
     Use your venue fund allocation wisely. To be as safe and unique as possible pick a local outdoor spot. Even the way you arrive and leave the wedding makes an impact. This article suggests riding up in a horse drawn carriage or hybrid car. Blue Planet Green Events recently got some great news about on of their favorite Charleston venues, Magnolia Plantation. Because of all the work the company has done with this venue they started on-site recycling! This exciting news means that the owners and we the interns no longer have to haul all of the recycling off on our own. The fact that this one company has changed the practices of an entire venue means we are really making a positive impact.
3. Please join us
     Because the invitation is one of the first impressions an engaged couple will make, make sure they are not environmentally harmful. The article suggests tree-free paper, recycled paper, and straying away from paper with harmful finishes. It is even possible to cut down on the volume of invitations by sending a single postcard or including all wedding activities at once. Also suggested, is the idea to inform the invited party of eco-friendly transportation and hotel options.
4. The final fling
     Remain green throughout the entire wedding! This includes bachelor/bachelorette parties. Be sure to keep things local, as organic as possible, and low-impact.
5. Here comes the bride
     There are so many alternative options when it comes to walking down the aisle in an environmentally yet beautiful wedding gown. Thanks to fabric technology in the industry, there are  many fabric options that are cooperative with the sustainable theme. Or, like the other current event also suggested, go with the vintage/reused dress idea. Also, be sure to use organic makeup! The beauty is in the details.
6. Set the stage
     Decor should add natural beauty to the wedding. Above all use local, decorate with things found outdoors, even be conscious of the candles you use. The article suggests beeswax candles but Lori and Toni use electric candles that take rechargeable batteries. Be sure not to throw anything out, and be sure to bring all of the flowers from the ceremony over to the reception.
7. Eat, drink, and be merry
     Basing your menu on local, organic, and in-season food items is key when hosting a green wedding.  Use composting, a to-go system for left overs, and be sure to stay away from disposables.
8. Lasting memories
     This article suggests looking for a photographer who will keep digital proofs in order to save paper and chemicals. The couple can even create a site for all of the guests to upload their digital pictures for the entire party to enjoy.
9. 'Tis better to give...
     Fun fact: there are institutes like The I Do Foundation  that will give a percentage of gift purchases to a charity of your liking. Be attentive when registering, stick to specialty stores with eco-friendly items and local treasures. As a couple, you can even as for your wedding patrons to donate to a charity on your behalf instead of buying a gift.
10. Happily ever after...
     Remember that going green doesn't end at the reception. This article has many suggestions for low impact honeymoon getaways. Go local "You're going to be spending a lot of time in that hotel room anyway" ;), go on ecotours while you are away, opt for a trip that is beneficial to an environmental group, they even suggest staying at a locally run Bed & Breakfast.
     I hoped you enjoyed diving into this article as much as I did. As a human taking up room on this planet, I have always tried to do a little something here and there to help out the environment. Normally that included being 100% opposed to littering, recycling whenever I thought about it, and opting for paper over plastic. Now, with this new job opportunity and these new finings my outlook is ever changing. It makes me want to make changes, no matter how small, for the benefit of our planet. All being green takes is a little initiative, some attention, and little life changes. This article is great for Blue Planet Green Events. It gives more ideas and more inspiration for our upcoming weddings.

   

Green Celebrities -- 20 of Our Favorite Eco-Friendly Celebs (current event #3)

Week Three
Blue Planet Green Events

Shumaker, D. (2013, April 29). Babble. Retrieved on June 10, 2013 from: http://www.babble.com/entertainment/green-celebrities-20-of-our-favorite-eco-friendly-celebs/ed-begley-jr/

     Okay, now it is time to take a look at America's obsession: Celebrities. We all know your guilty pleasure is searching the web what your favorite celebrities are up to, so let's see what kind of influence they are having on the green front. According to the article, "Some of them [celebrities] are actually thinking about saving the planet more that you realize." The article dives into a list of 20 celebs are working towards the betterment of planet earth and what they have been cooking up behind the scenes. So here is a little synopsis:

#1 John Travolta and wife Kelly Preston: After hurricane Katrina Travolta took a flight over on his jet to deliver supplies including a tetanus vaccine to victims of the tragedy. I think the couple did a noble thing responding to the hurricane with help, but it wasn't a very eco-friendly approach. But A+ in doing a great thing for the people of Baton Rouge and New Orleans. 
#2 Jessica Alba: Alba co-founded a company named, Honest Company. Their mission statement is all about creating a product without negative implications affecting the planet. The company believes in protection of earth and the little people. I hope they stand up to their wonderful mission statement!
#3 Emma Watson: Just when you think Emma Watson can't get any better she does, and in our department too! She created an eco-friendly fashion line called, Pure Threads. The line draws inspiration from the hippie-friendly 60s and 70s.
#4 Will.I.Am: The musician recently stated, "I'm on a mission to educate and inspire consumers around the globe to seek out more sustainable lifestyle choices that will ultimately play a part in the movement toward a world with zero waste." Well said Will.I.Am. Plus, partnering up with internationally known Coca-Cola will help spread his brand (Ekocycle's) mission.
#5 Jon Bon Jovi: Rocker Bon Jovi is building affordable eco-friendly housing in urban-based ares. A great mission leaving a great footprint, thumbs up.
#6 Bruce Springsteen: Springsteen, along side of multiple other musicians, held a concert benefitting Hurricane Sandy Victims. Once again a celeb helping a desperate cause, but next time I suggest holding the concert in as much of a sustainable fashion as possible.
#7 Kevin Costner: Costner became a major investor in a company called Ocean Therapy Solutions. This company has devised a way to clean up oil spills in the ocean as eco-friendly as possible. Their method even returns the cleaned water to the ocean. Now that's what I'm talkin' about Costner.
#8 Robert Redford: Redford has been a long time advocate of eco-friendly practices such as green and renewable energy. Redford didn't have to jump on the bandwagon, he's driving it. Beep beep.
#9 Gisele Bundchen: Just because you are a beautiful model, living with your beautiful NFL husband, in your beautiful 22,000 square-foot-mansion doesn't mean you can't be green. During renovation, Bundchen included solar panels and a rainwater recovery system on the roof of her mansion. Simple solutions if you have the money. 
#10 Woody Harrelson: According to the article, Harrelson is one of the most green Hollywood stars there is. Yep that's his, completely sustainable and recycled. Not to mention it's named "The Mothership," you. are. welcome.

#11 Leonardo Di Caprio: Little Leo created a foundation way back when to ensure a sustainable future for our planet and the planet's inhabitants. People, he can do no wrong.
#12 Drew Barrymore: Remember that classic water fountain joke from elementary school? "Hey, save some for the whales!" Well, Barrymore has starred in a movie set in Anchorage, Alaska that actually inspired the nation to do just that, save the whales. For the ladies, she has created an eco-friendly makeup like called Flower Beauty. Good news!
#13 Anne Hathaway: Luck for Blue Planet Green Events Anne Hathaway actually had a green wedding! Yay
#14 Brad Pitt: Just, duh.
#15 Cate Blanchett: Thanks to this article I have just learned a new word: "greenovating." Which is exactly what Blanchett did to her mansion. Like I previously mentioned, this concept is pricey but if funs permit, greenovating is the way to go.
#16 Matt Damon: Damon has partnered with the CamelBak company to launch an eco-friendly water bottle. All of the proceeds from this particular water bottle go to his organization which strives for more clean water systems globally. This is a great cause and an all around great effort from Damon, I strongly approve.
#17 Justin Timberlake: Timberlake went and built an eco-friendly golf course in Tennessee then won an award for it! When he "heard someone was going to take paradise and put up a parking lot [he] decided to buy paradise [himself]" I see what you did there Justin.
#18 Jessica Chastain: Jessica was voted "Sexiest Vegetarian of 2012" by PETA. Chastain sticks to her strictly vegeterian diet because she does not want to contribute to any further animal cruelty. It is always nice to see a celebrity who cares.
#19 Julianne Moore: Already one of my favorite actresses, Moore has joined forces with Moms Clean Air Force to promote anti-pollution. The group is taking big strides toward clean air for children, bumping her up even higher on my list.
#20 Ed Begley Jr.: One subject we have yet to touch on is green household cleaners and products. Not to worry, Begley Jr. has created his own line which is completely non-toxic and is made from all natural ingredients. If I have learned one thing, it is that even if a product is listed as "green" it cannot be trusted. Bedgley Jr. understands this concept, and his household line has gained my trust.

I hope you had as much fun of a time with this list as I have! Next time you go to look up juicy celebrity gossip, try to stick to the positive and avoid the negative press. What influence you expose yourself to is in your hands, whether it be positive or negative. These celebs are making a great influence in the green movement, and we are proud of them.

-Jessica Howard BPGE assistant

"Green Weddings: Your Eco-friendly Wedding Guide" (current event #1)

Week Number One
Blue Planet Green Events
Current Event

Albright, T. Retrieved on June 1, 2013 from: http://wedding.theknot.com/real-weddings/green- weddings/articles/eco-friendly-wedding-guide.aspx?MsdVisit=1

     This article about tying the knot in an eco-friendly fashion divides up all aspects of a typical wedding and sets the stage on how to keep it in green fashion. Those areas are: the venue, the stationary, the flowers, the catering, the favors, and of course the dress. After visualizing the sections, I realize that my company focuses on all of these areas so, so far so good!
     When picking a venue with the least environmental impact it is key to stay away from big hotel ballrooms that often eat up electricity and put out large amounts of waste. Stick to a quaint, but often beautiful, venue such as a local farm. Plus, when you hold the ceremony and the reception in the same place, there is cut down on fuel emission and travel time.  Blue Planet Green Events almost always holds outdoor ceremonies followed by nearby or on-site receptions.
     Moving on to the next wedding area, the stationary. If you are a couple who wants to stick to strict eco-friendly guidelines then cut out paper all together. Nowadays an e-vite will suffice, and you can still make them as beautiful as ever. However, making this sacrifice loses a little of the sentiment, but it positively impacts the environment. If cutting out paper altogether is not your forte then simply cut down on the number of envelopes you use, or find a local stationary shop and have them make your set from recycled materials. Personalized recycled stationary adds a nice touch to any invite.
     How a wedding's flowers are gathered and grown have a huge environmental impact, and that impact is not a good one either. Most people have their flowers shipped in from other countries or from far away which is terrible for the environment. Plus, most flowers are artificially grown out of season and used loads of pesticides to preserve the look of the flowers. Blue Planet only uses local flowers, within season, from places with sound and non-harmful growth practices. The first wedding I helped with even used flowers from the farm that the ceremony was held on. Buying locally not only helps out small companies, but the harm of the environmental is reduced.
     Another major component of any wedding is the catering. It is amazing to be behind the scenes and visualize the huge volume of waste after each event. The article suggests having organic or vegan meals at your wedding. If organic food is not within your budget try choosing a caterer that uses locally grown food. Also stay within season when choosing the menu. Blue Planet works with specific caterers that follow these practices. Our caterers also compost and cut down on waste by giving all left overs back to the couple so nothing gets thrown out.
     One of the most overlooked items at a wedding are the parting favors. In the article the most practical solution is getting rid of the idea of handing out party favors, and replace that portion of the budget with a donation to a local charity. This issue is one that I have not yet encountered on this internship , but is a great suggestion I will pass along to the girls! Some other alternatives to environmentally harmful party favors are handing out edible favors or give out local treats to help in more ways than one.
     Last but not least, the wedding dress. Yes, even your wedding dress has a harmful impact on the environment, and no the article does not suggest walking down the aisle in your birthday suit. Even though, that option would have a zero impact on the environment I do not suggest it. A fun alternative to a terribly harmful dress is to dig out your mom's old one and have a seamstress put a twist on it with your style. A recycled dress can turn out to be even more beautiful than a brand new one. This is also a cool idea I want to pass on to the ladies.
     I am so glad to have read this article because it is helping me understand more about the green companies and little tricks of the trade. There are so many alternatives to harmful practices, that if brides and planners pay a little extra attention, the practices can be carried out. Seeing more and more articles about eco-friendly weddings is good for Blue Planet Green Events. It means that more brides will want to go down this path, and since they have been in this area for four years now they are ahead of the curve. I look forward to continuing my knowledge through experience and current events.

Week Three: What to expect...

     Week three here at Blue Planet Green Events has been a little slow for the interns. We do not have a wedding for another two weekends so there isn't much work for me to do. Since Lori and Toni haven't exactly given me much work to do that means I must find something on my own in order to help! I have decided to focus my attention on getting some more fun stuff on their twitter, facebook, pinterest and instagram pages. Their current advertising campaign is focused mainly on word of mouth and promotions from similar local businesses. However, they do search out features in local wedding magazines and wherever they can get the name out there. Young brides/couples interested in sustainability, global issues, recycling, and "going green" are the types of customers that Blue Planet Green Events seek out. I believe that the company is going in the right direction with advertising and target, but I think that they need to push harder and bring in more clients. However, since it is only the two owners and a few interns that help out every once in a while, keeping a lower volume makes personalization easier to maintain. 

     Since there wasn't much to do around the office, I was able to help Lori with her American Lung Association fundraiser. I have tons of experience in fundraising and a knack for marketing, so I have been putting my efforts into helping with that. The event is on June 13th so I am excited to see how it turns out! It's going to be very fun and creative so I can't wait to tell you about it after we kick it off. I learn the most during the day-of-wedding mayhem. The only problem in the fundraising department is having to deal with a lack of success when asking for donations and raffle prizes. Working in weddings/events doesn't take over every day of the week, but when there is a wedding the day is slam packed with work and things that need to be taken care of. The days are very long, and you are constantly running around making sure everything is perfect for the soon to be married couple. One of the most valuable things i hvae learned so far is something Toni told me last week. She looked at me as said one lesson; "When you are an assistant you take on all roles during the reception. You become the waitress, bus boy, event planner, and candle lighter." This is something that will always stick with me because it is true. When you are the event planner you are responsible for every facet of that day and that event. It is up to you to make sure the day is as special as you imagined!

Until next time, 

Jessica

P.S. Sorry for the weird timing of the posts...in downtown Charleston when you will/won't have wi-fi at your own apartment is a guessing game.

Blue Planet Green events week 2- Now We’re Comfortable

Blue Planet Green Events definitely caters to a niche market with certain goals in mind. Eco-friendly, sustainable wedding practices are the images they portray. Their services usually attract outdoorsy type couples with a love of beauty and relaxed nature. The two ladies in charge are always very close with clients and they create absolutely beautiful weddings. Because of their caring ways, sound business practices, and beautiful outcome their reputation is without a doubt a positive one. The company has only been around for 4 years so with each new season comes growth. Being laid-back, hard working, and enthusiastic has helped me fit in with the company culture. I know how the owners want things done, so I can move on to the next task without being told.

I have not gotten to see many of their client meetings prior to the weddings, but they have good customer service practices. The owners, Lori and Toni, treat all of their clients as friends. In the event planning business it is important to build strong relationships with not only clients, but all of the vendors as well. The company is known around the wedding biz aspect of town as being fun and friendly. However, they are also strong independent business women so don’t cross them! Being upfront about situations and problems is the best way to deal with problems that may arise.

Since the office environment is so casual it’ makes it easy to just chitchat back and forth about anything. It is nice because we can have fun and talk about whatever with little censorship. I’ve learned a lot about restaurant owners, and some of the crazy vendors we are dealing with. All of my experiences with coworkers and the bosses have been positive ones. We all get along great, which makes work very enjoyable. The two other interns I have met are great to work with and a lot of fun to be around. When you work with enjoyable people, it makes going to work much more fun. Luckily I have not encountered any bridezillas yet but Toni and Lori have shared a few horror stories with me. The only problems that arise are usually with cramming to finish last minute details on time or lazy furniture rental delivery guys. The food vendors are great because they cut up in the back and give us little samples of the delicious menu items. Plus, having a slice of tasty wedding cake at the end of a long working day never hurt anyone.

Finding a place to live was one of the most stressful parts of finding this internship and moving to a new city. Just when everything seemed to be falling apart I found an amazing historic house to live in right off of King Street. On the first day of work I was surprised to find that the house is only a five-minute walk from the office. Charleston has always been one of my favorite places in the world, so being able to wake up here is a blessing in itself. I am getting to know my roommate and her friends, and they are making me feel right at home. I did know a lot of people who lived here but it seems that they have moved away. Next week I am looking forward to making more contributions to the company, learning my way around the city, and hopefully meeting more great people!

Until Next Time,

Jessica