Marriage Equality Act Frequently Asked Questions
Versión en español
What is the Marriage Equality Act?
On June 24, 2011, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed into law the Marriage Equality Act. The Law amends New York's Domestic Relations Law in the following ways:
Applications for a marriage license shall be granted regardless of whether the parties are of the same or a different sex;
A marriage that is otherwise valid shall be valid regardless of whether the parties to the marriage are of the same or a different sex;
No government treatment or legal status, effect, right, benefit, privilege, protection or responsibility relating to marriage shall differ based on the parties to the marriage being of the same sex or a different sex;
No religious entity, benevolent organization or not-for-profit corporation that is operated, supervised or controlled by a religious entity, or its employees, can be required to perform marriage ceremonies or provide its facilities for marriage ceremonies, consistent with its religious principles.
Who can get married now?
Any couple that meets current requirements for getting married in New York State is eligible to marry regardless of sex. More information on the requirements of getting married in New York State is available at http://www.health.ny.gov/vital_records/marriage.htm.
When is the earliest I can get married under the Marriage Equality Act?
The Marriage Equality Act is effective July 24, 2011. The earliest a couple may apply for a marriage license under the Act is July 24, 2011. Please note, however, because July 24 is a Sunday, many town and city clerks' offices may be closed. Please contact your local clerk's office to confirm their hours of operation on July 24th and for the remainder of the week, as some clerks' offices may offer extended hours. Additionally, state law requires a 24-hour waiting period from the issuance of a marriage license before a marriage can occur, unless a waiver is obtained by the applicants. Please see question and answer below regarding how an applicant can obtain a waiver to bypass the 24-hour waiting period.
Is there a waiting period?
Yes. Although the marriage license is issued immediately upon application, current law mandates that the marriage ceremony cannot take place within 24 hours from the exact time that the license was issued. When both applicants are 16 years of age or older, the 24-hour waiting period may be waived by an order of a justice of the Supreme Court or a judge of the County Court of the county in which either of the applicants resides. If either person is under 16 years of age, the order must be from the Family Court judge of the county in which the person under 16 years of age resides. There is no waiting period for a second or subsequent marriage ceremony.
What is a second or subsequent marriage ceremony?
A second or subsequent ceremony occurs when a couple can prove that they are already married to each other, regardless of where the marriage occurred and wish to remarry the same person (i.e., renew their vows) in New York State. This includes valid marriages between same-sex couples that have already occurred in other jurisdictions. New York State issues a second or subsequent marriage certificate to such couples. The 24-hour waiting period is not a requirement for second or subsequent ceremonies.
Where can I obtain the form for a marriage license?
A couple that intends to be married in New York State must apply in person for a marriage license to any town or city clerk in the state outside of New York City. The application for a license must be signed by both applicants in the presence of the town or city clerk. A representative cannot apply for the license on behalf of either applicant. This applies even if the representative has been given a Power of Attorney. Notarized marriage license affidavits signed by one or both applicants cannot be substituted for their personal appearance. In New York City, a license can be obtained at: http://www.cityclerk.nyc.gov/html/marriage/marriage_bureau.shtml
Are town or city clerks required to give me a marriage license?
Yes, under New York State Law, the town or city clerk must provide a license to applicants who meet all marriage requirements for New York State.
Where can I get more information on getting married in New York State?
More information is available at http://www.health.ny.gov/vital_records/married.htm
View a sample Marriage License (PDF, 314KB, 1pg.). These forms must be filled out in person.
My Story telling about the birth and growth of EnhancEvents, LLC. The one thing I live for, the satisfaction, the emotions and the smiles of my clients every time we accomplished their Dream Wedding.
About Me
- EnhancEventsLLC
- North East, MD, United States
- Every upscale bride and groom deserves an upscale experience. Whether it is an intimate or lavish affair, EnhancEvents, LLC will ensure it is what your heart desires. With attention to detail, an eye for perfection, and full dedication, they will deliver the most personalized affluent wedding of your dreams. EnhancEvents, LLC has executed the most luxurious events in the Mid Atlantic and the Caribbean with professionalism, poise, and sophistication. We work diligently toward the goal of creating your masterpiece of a wedding followed by its astounding delivery. We have no limits to what can be created: you dream it and we will deliver it.
Monday, July 25, 2011
As Same-Sex Marriage Becomes Legal, Some Choices May Be Lost
As Same-Sex Marriage Becomes Legal, Some Choices May Be Lost
By TARA SIEGEL BERNARD
Published: July 8, 2011
Recommend
Twitter
Sign In to E-Mail
Print
Reprints
Share
Now that same-sex marriage has been legalized in New York, at least a few large companies are requiring their employees to tie the knot if they want their partners to qualify for health insurance.
Enlarge This Image
Michael Falco for The New York Times
Ross Levi of Empire State Pride Agenda said some companies were making changes too quickly.
Bucks
Companies That Make Gay Couples Marry to Get Benefits
Should companies require gay employees to marry if they want health coverage for their same-sex partners?
Comment Post a Comment
Add to Portfolio
Raytheon Co
International Business Machines Corporation
Eastman Kodak Co
Corning Inc
Go to your Portfolio »
Corning, I.B.M. and Raytheon all provide domestic partner benefits to employees with same-sex partners in states where they cannot marry. But now that they can legally wed in New York, five other states and the District of Columbia, they will be required to do so if they want their partner to be covered for a routine checkup or a root canal.
On the surface, this appears to put the couples on an even footing with heterosexual married couples. After all, this is precisely what they have been fighting for: being treated as a spouse. But some gay and lesbian advocates are arguing that the change may have come too soon: some couples may face complications, since their unions are not recognized by the federal government.
“Even with the complications, many people will want to get married for the reasons people want to get married,” said Ross D. Levi, executive director of the Empire State Pride Agenda. “But from our perspective, to hinge something as important as insurance for your family to what is still a complicated legal matter for same-sex couples doesn’t seem to be a fair thing to do.”
He said that there were a variety of reasons — legal, financial and personal — that companies should keep the domestic partnership option at least until gay marriage was recognized at the federal level. Legally speaking, getting married could create immigration issues or it could potentially muddy the process of adopting a child. In some instances, he added, an employee may work in a gay marriage state but live in a neighboring state that does not recognize the marriage. The couple may want to wait to marry until they can be legally wed in their home state.
“There are certainly reasons why a couple may not wish to marry,” added Camilla Taylor, marriage project director at Lambda Legal. “People with certain immigration statuses might want to think very carefully before getting married. There are some types of visas that are meant to be temporary, and if you get married to someone who is a citizen, it could flag your renewal application and reflect your more permanent decision to stay.”
When it comes to adopting a child, couples may run into trouble if they are trying to adopt from a place that restricts same-sex married couples from adopting. Having one parent adopt while still single may be easier. “If you want to be able to answer honestly in paperwork, multiple interviews and background checks, then you won’t want to get married,” Ms. Taylor said, adding that many foreign countries ban adoptions to same-sex couples.
Marrying could also have serious implications for couples who relocate to a nonmarriage state, and ultimately decide to split up. Getting a divorce can be complicated, since one member of a couple may have to return to the gay marriage state and live there before their split can be completed.
The employers making the changes said they spoke regularly with their gay and lesbian employee groups and planned to phase in the requirement. Corning, based in Corning, N.Y., said it would offer a reasonable grace period, though it had not completed the details.
“After waiting so much time for that right, we want them to have the opportunity to enjoy that,” said Christy Pambianchi, a senior vice president for human resources at Corning, which put the policy into effect in New Hampshire and Massachusetts when gay marriage became legal there. She said employees did not raise concerns about the requirement. “They are delighted,” she said.
Raytheon, based in Waltham, Mass. — another state where gay marriage is legal — said it would give employees several months to comply with its marriage requirement. Like Corning and I.B.M., the company said domestic partner benefits would remain in states where couples cannot marry (Raytheon also has an exemption for active members of the military, so they are covered for benefits without having to marry. Getting married violates the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, which is being phased out).
I.B.M., based in Armonk, N.Y., said its workers would have up to a year to get married to maintain their current benefits.
At least for now, these companies seem to be in the minority, though it is unclear whether more employers will follow their lead. Eastman Kodak, based in Rochester, said it would continue to offer domestic partner coverage to both same-sex and opposite-sex partners.
“My impression is that there has been lots of discussion about dropping domestic partner coverage when marriage is first opened up to same-sex couples, but very few employers actually end up taking this step,” said Jennifer C. Pizer, legal director at the Williams Institute, which studies sexual orientation law and policy issues. “Some employers initially believe that it is fairer of them to impose the same marriage requirements on all employees, regardless of sexual orientation. But then employees and others explain that employees with a same-sex life partner remain in difficult circumstances due to the continuing federal discrimination.”
Whether same-sex couples marry, they will still be responsible for paying federal income taxes on the value of their partner or spouse’s benefits since they are not recognized by the federal government as an economic unit, unless the person covered is considered a dependent. Couples will not owe those taxes at the state level in places like New York that recognize gay marriage.
But it should become easier for gay employees who marry and live in New York to obtain insurance for their spouses. (There are an estimated 42,000 same-sex couples in New York, according to the Williams Institute.) Not only are the same-sex spouses of state workers eligible for spousal coverage, but the same goes for many people who work for private employers.
There could be some exceptions, however. Employers who do not contract with an insurance company but instead pay for health benefits out of their own assets — so-called self-insured plans — are not subject to the state’s insurance laws but are governed by federal law.
Most large employers have self-insured plans, said Helen Darling, president of the National Business Group on Health, a membership organization that focuses on health policies for large employers. That means they can choose to cover same-sex employees, but they do not have to. While virtually all large company plans cover legal spouses, she added, some companies offer domestic partner benefits only to gay employees who do not have the option to marry. (Some companies also extend the benefits to heterosexual unmarried couples.)
“I am getting a lot of questions about what other employers are doing,” Ms. Darling said. “I see a movement coming where marriage will be a factor where marriage is possible.”
A version of this article appeared in print on July 9, 2011, on page B1 of the New York edition with the headline: Some Companies Want Gays To Wed to Get Health Benefits.
By TARA SIEGEL BERNARD
Published: July 8, 2011
Recommend
Sign In to E-Mail
Reprints
Share
Now that same-sex marriage has been legalized in New York, at least a few large companies are requiring their employees to tie the knot if they want their partners to qualify for health insurance.
Enlarge This Image
Michael Falco for The New York Times
Ross Levi of Empire State Pride Agenda said some companies were making changes too quickly.
Bucks
Companies That Make Gay Couples Marry to Get Benefits
Should companies require gay employees to marry if they want health coverage for their same-sex partners?
Comment Post a Comment
Add to Portfolio
Raytheon Co
International Business Machines Corporation
Eastman Kodak Co
Corning Inc
Go to your Portfolio »
Corning, I.B.M. and Raytheon all provide domestic partner benefits to employees with same-sex partners in states where they cannot marry. But now that they can legally wed in New York, five other states and the District of Columbia, they will be required to do so if they want their partner to be covered for a routine checkup or a root canal.
On the surface, this appears to put the couples on an even footing with heterosexual married couples. After all, this is precisely what they have been fighting for: being treated as a spouse. But some gay and lesbian advocates are arguing that the change may have come too soon: some couples may face complications, since their unions are not recognized by the federal government.
“Even with the complications, many people will want to get married for the reasons people want to get married,” said Ross D. Levi, executive director of the Empire State Pride Agenda. “But from our perspective, to hinge something as important as insurance for your family to what is still a complicated legal matter for same-sex couples doesn’t seem to be a fair thing to do.”
He said that there were a variety of reasons — legal, financial and personal — that companies should keep the domestic partnership option at least until gay marriage was recognized at the federal level. Legally speaking, getting married could create immigration issues or it could potentially muddy the process of adopting a child. In some instances, he added, an employee may work in a gay marriage state but live in a neighboring state that does not recognize the marriage. The couple may want to wait to marry until they can be legally wed in their home state.
“There are certainly reasons why a couple may not wish to marry,” added Camilla Taylor, marriage project director at Lambda Legal. “People with certain immigration statuses might want to think very carefully before getting married. There are some types of visas that are meant to be temporary, and if you get married to someone who is a citizen, it could flag your renewal application and reflect your more permanent decision to stay.”
When it comes to adopting a child, couples may run into trouble if they are trying to adopt from a place that restricts same-sex married couples from adopting. Having one parent adopt while still single may be easier. “If you want to be able to answer honestly in paperwork, multiple interviews and background checks, then you won’t want to get married,” Ms. Taylor said, adding that many foreign countries ban adoptions to same-sex couples.
Marrying could also have serious implications for couples who relocate to a nonmarriage state, and ultimately decide to split up. Getting a divorce can be complicated, since one member of a couple may have to return to the gay marriage state and live there before their split can be completed.
The employers making the changes said they spoke regularly with their gay and lesbian employee groups and planned to phase in the requirement. Corning, based in Corning, N.Y., said it would offer a reasonable grace period, though it had not completed the details.
“After waiting so much time for that right, we want them to have the opportunity to enjoy that,” said Christy Pambianchi, a senior vice president for human resources at Corning, which put the policy into effect in New Hampshire and Massachusetts when gay marriage became legal there. She said employees did not raise concerns about the requirement. “They are delighted,” she said.
Raytheon, based in Waltham, Mass. — another state where gay marriage is legal — said it would give employees several months to comply with its marriage requirement. Like Corning and I.B.M., the company said domestic partner benefits would remain in states where couples cannot marry (Raytheon also has an exemption for active members of the military, so they are covered for benefits without having to marry. Getting married violates the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, which is being phased out).
I.B.M., based in Armonk, N.Y., said its workers would have up to a year to get married to maintain their current benefits.
At least for now, these companies seem to be in the minority, though it is unclear whether more employers will follow their lead. Eastman Kodak, based in Rochester, said it would continue to offer domestic partner coverage to both same-sex and opposite-sex partners.
“My impression is that there has been lots of discussion about dropping domestic partner coverage when marriage is first opened up to same-sex couples, but very few employers actually end up taking this step,” said Jennifer C. Pizer, legal director at the Williams Institute, which studies sexual orientation law and policy issues. “Some employers initially believe that it is fairer of them to impose the same marriage requirements on all employees, regardless of sexual orientation. But then employees and others explain that employees with a same-sex life partner remain in difficult circumstances due to the continuing federal discrimination.”
Whether same-sex couples marry, they will still be responsible for paying federal income taxes on the value of their partner or spouse’s benefits since they are not recognized by the federal government as an economic unit, unless the person covered is considered a dependent. Couples will not owe those taxes at the state level in places like New York that recognize gay marriage.
But it should become easier for gay employees who marry and live in New York to obtain insurance for their spouses. (There are an estimated 42,000 same-sex couples in New York, according to the Williams Institute.) Not only are the same-sex spouses of state workers eligible for spousal coverage, but the same goes for many people who work for private employers.
There could be some exceptions, however. Employers who do not contract with an insurance company but instead pay for health benefits out of their own assets — so-called self-insured plans — are not subject to the state’s insurance laws but are governed by federal law.
Most large employers have self-insured plans, said Helen Darling, president of the National Business Group on Health, a membership organization that focuses on health policies for large employers. That means they can choose to cover same-sex employees, but they do not have to. While virtually all large company plans cover legal spouses, she added, some companies offer domestic partner benefits only to gay employees who do not have the option to marry. (Some companies also extend the benefits to heterosexual unmarried couples.)
“I am getting a lot of questions about what other employers are doing,” Ms. Darling said. “I see a movement coming where marriage will be a factor where marriage is possible.”
A version of this article appeared in print on July 9, 2011, on page B1 of the New York edition with the headline: Some Companies Want Gays To Wed to Get Health Benefits.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
The Caribbean Wedding - My Latest Work
Melody Joy Guerra & Adrian Marcus Landa
About the bride
Melody Joy Guerra was born on November 16th, 1981 in Dallas Texas. Raised and still residing in Texas by her Mother, Kathy Goria (married to Bob Goria), and her father, Michael Guerra (married to Theresa Guerra). She has two siblings, her sister Elissa Barbosa (married to Andy Barbosa), and Jon-Michael Guerra (engaged to Bethany Pagel). She has a niece and nephew, Mia and Christian. The rest of her family resides in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding suburbs. She also has two step brothers, Bryan and Tony Goria.
About the groom
Adrian Marcus Landa was born on June 22nd, 1978 in Dallas, Texas. Raised and still residing in Texas by his Mother and Father, Argie and Richard Landa. He has one brother, Chris Landa (married to Jody Landa), and has two nephews, Carlos and Cruz Landa. He shares his home with Melody, and their kids......Mama's, Mr. Bigglesworth, Cleopatra, Reggie, and Turtle.
How we met
Adrian and Melody met through friends, and of course, the infamous, Tia's Tex Mex, where Melody worked for many years. They knew many of the same people, and probably crossed paths plenty of times before they actually began dating, and never even knew it. They both went to Newman Smith High School, but graduated 5 years apart. They actually started hanging out because he was dating a friend of Melody's, and when they broke up, which was winter of 2000, Melody and Adrian began spending more time together as friends, and grew stronger feelings as time progressed, but not a word of it was spoken until February 14th, 2001. Adrian woke up extra early on Valentine's Day of 2001, picked up two dozen roses, and headed to Melody's sister's apartment where she was living. He walked in, kissed her on her cheek, handed her the two dozen roses, and said he has to go to work, but that he wanted to see her that night. She was stunned, for it was 5:00 a.m. on Valentine's Day, and she already had her valentine. They have been together ever since! Ten incredible and adventurous years!
Ceremony Site
Information for our guests
Melody Joy Guerra and Adrian Marcus Landa will be uniting their love on June 11th, 2011 in Humacao, Puerto Rico. The ceremony will be taking place on the beach in a large resort subdivision in The Palmas Del Mar in Humacao. It will begin promptly at 5:oo in the afternoon, right before sun down.
Driving directions
Humacao, Puerto Rico is estimated about 40-50 minutes southeast of San Juan, PR and approximately . San Juan is where you will be arriving at the airport San Luis Munoz International Airport.
Reception Site
Information for our guests
The Reception will immediately follow the ceremony:
PLACE: Cedro 6, Palmas del Mar, Humacao, PR
TIME: Approximately 7:00 pm
We will be serving a whole Pig as the main course, as well as stuffed Chicken, shrimp cocktail, and of course the wedding cake!
What to Wear
We want our guests to feel relaxed and laid back for our ceremony and reception, so please feel free to dress nice, but not formal. It is a beach ceremony, so tropical attire would be nice, but not required. If you would care to know our colors, they will be aqua's, blue's, yellow's, red's, and oranges. TROPICAL FLAVOR!
Our wedding party
The Best Man: Chris Landa
Maitron of Honor: Elissa Barbosa
Flower Girl: Mia Barbosa
Father of the Bride: Michael Guerra
Mother of the Bride: Kathy Goria
Father of the Groom: Richard Landa
Mother of the Groom: Argie Landa
Special Thanks to all the Vendors;
Officiant: Santana Ministries (787) 435-3145
Decorator: Ideas a tu Gusto (787) 595-8726
Wedding Cake: Jossi's Cakes (787) 678-7872
Catering: Ita's Creole Kitchen, Absolute Catering (787) 738-6090
Entertainment: H & M Entertainment (787) 429-3474
Rental: Party Line, Inc. of PR (787) 747-9092
Misc. Vendors: JCJ Remodelaciones (787) 212-4182 Installation of Ceremony Site
Luxery Villa Rentals: (787) 507-1966 Reception Site
Healing Flowers: (787) 562-4207
About the bride
Melody Joy Guerra was born on November 16th, 1981 in Dallas Texas. Raised and still residing in Texas by her Mother, Kathy Goria (married to Bob Goria), and her father, Michael Guerra (married to Theresa Guerra). She has two siblings, her sister Elissa Barbosa (married to Andy Barbosa), and Jon-Michael Guerra (engaged to Bethany Pagel). She has a niece and nephew, Mia and Christian. The rest of her family resides in Chicago, Illinois and surrounding suburbs. She also has two step brothers, Bryan and Tony Goria.
About the groom
Adrian Marcus Landa was born on June 22nd, 1978 in Dallas, Texas. Raised and still residing in Texas by his Mother and Father, Argie and Richard Landa. He has one brother, Chris Landa (married to Jody Landa), and has two nephews, Carlos and Cruz Landa. He shares his home with Melody, and their kids......Mama's, Mr. Bigglesworth, Cleopatra, Reggie, and Turtle.
How we met
Adrian and Melody met through friends, and of course, the infamous, Tia's Tex Mex, where Melody worked for many years. They knew many of the same people, and probably crossed paths plenty of times before they actually began dating, and never even knew it. They both went to Newman Smith High School, but graduated 5 years apart. They actually started hanging out because he was dating a friend of Melody's, and when they broke up, which was winter of 2000, Melody and Adrian began spending more time together as friends, and grew stronger feelings as time progressed, but not a word of it was spoken until February 14th, 2001. Adrian woke up extra early on Valentine's Day of 2001, picked up two dozen roses, and headed to Melody's sister's apartment where she was living. He walked in, kissed her on her cheek, handed her the two dozen roses, and said he has to go to work, but that he wanted to see her that night. She was stunned, for it was 5:00 a.m. on Valentine's Day, and she already had her valentine. They have been together ever since! Ten incredible and adventurous years!
Ceremony Site
Information for our guests
Melody Joy Guerra and Adrian Marcus Landa will be uniting their love on June 11th, 2011 in Humacao, Puerto Rico. The ceremony will be taking place on the beach in a large resort subdivision in The Palmas Del Mar in Humacao. It will begin promptly at 5:oo in the afternoon, right before sun down.
Driving directions
Humacao, Puerto Rico is estimated about 40-50 minutes southeast of San Juan, PR and approximately . San Juan is where you will be arriving at the airport San Luis Munoz International Airport.
Reception Site
Information for our guests
The Reception will immediately follow the ceremony:
PLACE: Cedro 6, Palmas del Mar, Humacao, PR
TIME: Approximately 7:00 pm
We will be serving a whole Pig as the main course, as well as stuffed Chicken, shrimp cocktail, and of course the wedding cake!
What to Wear
We want our guests to feel relaxed and laid back for our ceremony and reception, so please feel free to dress nice, but not formal. It is a beach ceremony, so tropical attire would be nice, but not required. If you would care to know our colors, they will be aqua's, blue's, yellow's, red's, and oranges. TROPICAL FLAVOR!
Our wedding party
The Best Man: Chris Landa
Maitron of Honor: Elissa Barbosa
Flower Girl: Mia Barbosa
Father of the Bride: Michael Guerra
Mother of the Bride: Kathy Goria
Father of the Groom: Richard Landa
Mother of the Groom: Argie Landa
Special Thanks to all the Vendors;
Officiant: Santana Ministries (787) 435-3145
Decorator: Ideas a tu Gusto (787) 595-8726
Wedding Cake: Jossi's Cakes (787) 678-7872
Catering: Ita's Creole Kitchen, Absolute Catering (787) 738-6090
Entertainment: H & M Entertainment (787) 429-3474
Rental: Party Line, Inc. of PR (787) 747-9092
Misc. Vendors: JCJ Remodelaciones (787) 212-4182 Installation of Ceremony Site
Luxery Villa Rentals: (787) 507-1966 Reception Site
Healing Flowers: (787) 562-4207
Experience the Differences About EnhancEvents, LLC
Why do you publish your prices when other planners don’t?
We believe that from the very beginning of our relationship we will be honest and straight-forward with our clients. By informing you of the fees of our exceptional service up front, we can spend more time during our consultation getting to know you, and you getting to know us, while discussing the vision for your perfect day.
What does “Starting At...” package pricing mean?
Our pricing is based on guest size and your event logistics. All of our wedding packages include a minimum of one Event Planner and one Event Assistant on the day of your event. Larger guest counts and larger event productions dictate more Event Assistants in order to give you our signature service. When we meet during our complimentary consultation, we will provide a custom quote for your one-of-a-kind celebration.
I’ve seen other planners on the internet that charge a few hundred dollars for their service. Also, there are so many planners in the North East area. What is the difference between you and them?
o While we certainly love and have a passion for what we do, this is not a hobby or side-job for us. Wedding & Event Planning is our full-time job.
o We are active members of the Association of Bridal Consultants and are constantly attending seminars, national and international conferences and continuing education to provide our clients with the latest industry trends and style.
o We have established relationships with our preferred vendors who pass on great service and exclusive specials to our clients. Our policy is to not accept any “kick-backs” or returns from our vendor relationships.
o We carry a $1,000,000 insurance liability policy and have a Tennessee business license.
o We are members of NAPW (National Association of Professional Women), an elite group who are fastest growing women organization that supports small business.
o We were voted by real brides for 2010 A-List in North East Weddings in the following categories: Best Wedding Coordination, Best Event Design and Best North East Wedding Blog.
o With EnhancEvents, LLC, we are a team of planners, designers and production assistants. We work together with our combined talents to produce a truly unique and special occasion.
We believe that from the very beginning of our relationship we will be honest and straight-forward with our clients. By informing you of the fees of our exceptional service up front, we can spend more time during our consultation getting to know you, and you getting to know us, while discussing the vision for your perfect day.
What does “Starting At...” package pricing mean?
Our pricing is based on guest size and your event logistics. All of our wedding packages include a minimum of one Event Planner and one Event Assistant on the day of your event. Larger guest counts and larger event productions dictate more Event Assistants in order to give you our signature service. When we meet during our complimentary consultation, we will provide a custom quote for your one-of-a-kind celebration.
I’ve seen other planners on the internet that charge a few hundred dollars for their service. Also, there are so many planners in the North East area. What is the difference between you and them?
o While we certainly love and have a passion for what we do, this is not a hobby or side-job for us. Wedding & Event Planning is our full-time job.
o We are active members of the Association of Bridal Consultants and are constantly attending seminars, national and international conferences and continuing education to provide our clients with the latest industry trends and style.
o We have established relationships with our preferred vendors who pass on great service and exclusive specials to our clients. Our policy is to not accept any “kick-backs” or returns from our vendor relationships.
o We carry a $1,000,000 insurance liability policy and have a Tennessee business license.
o We are members of NAPW (National Association of Professional Women), an elite group who are fastest growing women organization that supports small business.
o We were voted by real brides for 2010 A-List in North East Weddings in the following categories: Best Wedding Coordination, Best Event Design and Best North East Wedding Blog.
o With EnhancEvents, LLC, we are a team of planners, designers and production assistants. We work together with our combined talents to produce a truly unique and special occasion.
8 Questions You Must Ask a Wedding Professional Before Booking Them
Hiring the right team is critical to planning your dream wedding…and it can also be quite stressful.
How do you find the right match for you? How do you know who to trust? Where do you go for advice?
First of all, this is not an easy task and it’s totally normal for couples to feel overwhelmed, frustrated or confused.
It’s not like you plan a wedding every day! This is all probably brand new to you, so be patient with yourself.
A few tips to finding the right ones for you…
•Do Your Homework. You’ll get much more out of a meeting or conversation with a wedding professional if you do a little background homework first.
Spend some time on the internet or talking to friends who’ve recently been married. Find out the average prices in your area and what services are available. Get an idea of what you like and don’t like. Wedding websites and chat rooms can be a great resource. This way when you meet with a wedding professional you’ll be able to ask better questions and have an idea of what to look out for.
•Meet With Them. An in person meeting is the best way to interview a potential wedding vendor. It lets you get the full experience of their personality, style and professionalism. If that’s not possible, have a phone conversation.
•Ask Questions. There are no stupid questions! Make sure you get clear, specific answers to your questions. If you aren't sure what something means, ask them to clarify. Keep asking questions until you completely understand.
If a wedding vendor has a problem with you asking questions, they probably aren’t the one for you. The best wedding professionals are patient, understanding and take the time to help you make the best choices for your wedding.
•Listen. Don’t just hear the words they say, really listen. Watch the vendor’s body language. Are they confident and comfortable with their response? Do they look and sound nervous? Do you get a “funny feeling” about them? Take all the sights, sounds and feelings into account along with their responses; if your gut tells you something isn’t right, it probably isn’t.
•Check References. Portfolios are hand-picked to show off the best work, but they may not represent the “average” wedding performance. Videos are edited for the optimum presentation. But real referrals from satisfied clients are hard to fake.
Call up both client and professional references. Ask questions and use those listening skills. Even if they give a rave review, you’ll often be able to “read between the lines” if there were any issues or problems.
Ask around and search the internet for reviews. Check the Better Business Bureau for any outstanding complaints against the business. Weigh all of this information into your choices.
Here are 8 Must Ask Questions to ask ALL your potential wedding professionals before booking:
1. How many weddings do you do per year? How much experience do you have?
This is an extremely important question. Ideally, your wedding professional should have ample experience specifically with weddings. Not only will they be more skilled in their craft, this also makes them a valuable source of information and ensures that your wedding day goes smoothly.
2. How much do you cost?
Price is often relative, especially when you factor in experience, reputation and expert skill. Generally, the most talented professionals have a higher price tag because they are worth it.
3. How much is the deposit?
4. What specifically is included in that cost?
Because packages often vary, it’s likely that you won’t be able to compare one vendor exactly to the next without doing a little figuring. The lowest cost isn’t necessarily the best deal; some higher quotes include services that you have to pay extra for in other packages. Make sure you take this into account.
5. What happens if I cancel? What happens if you cancel?
Find out if your deposit is refundable under any conditions. Does the wedding professional have a back up plan if something happens to them?
6. Do you use a contract?
If the answer is No, RUN! A contract is designed to protect both you and the wedding professional. Don’t settle for a verbal agreement that won’t hold up in court.
7. Are there any additional fees?
Taxes, service charges and travel fees can add up quickly. Make sure you understand exactly what is included and if there are any other fees you’ll have to pay. This should be clearly defined in your contract.
8. Do you carry liability insurance?
The answer you’re looking for here is yes. This protects you in case an unfortunate accident should occur on your wedding day. It’s also a sign that this is a reputable business; since most “fly by night” operations don’t invest in insurance.
If chosen wisely, with the right wedding vendors you get expert help and advice…for free!
You can visit us at www.EnhancEvents.com for more information about wedding planning tips.
How do you find the right match for you? How do you know who to trust? Where do you go for advice?
First of all, this is not an easy task and it’s totally normal for couples to feel overwhelmed, frustrated or confused.
It’s not like you plan a wedding every day! This is all probably brand new to you, so be patient with yourself.
A few tips to finding the right ones for you…
•Do Your Homework. You’ll get much more out of a meeting or conversation with a wedding professional if you do a little background homework first.
Spend some time on the internet or talking to friends who’ve recently been married. Find out the average prices in your area and what services are available. Get an idea of what you like and don’t like. Wedding websites and chat rooms can be a great resource. This way when you meet with a wedding professional you’ll be able to ask better questions and have an idea of what to look out for.
•Meet With Them. An in person meeting is the best way to interview a potential wedding vendor. It lets you get the full experience of their personality, style and professionalism. If that’s not possible, have a phone conversation.
•Ask Questions. There are no stupid questions! Make sure you get clear, specific answers to your questions. If you aren't sure what something means, ask them to clarify. Keep asking questions until you completely understand.
If a wedding vendor has a problem with you asking questions, they probably aren’t the one for you. The best wedding professionals are patient, understanding and take the time to help you make the best choices for your wedding.
•Listen. Don’t just hear the words they say, really listen. Watch the vendor’s body language. Are they confident and comfortable with their response? Do they look and sound nervous? Do you get a “funny feeling” about them? Take all the sights, sounds and feelings into account along with their responses; if your gut tells you something isn’t right, it probably isn’t.
•Check References. Portfolios are hand-picked to show off the best work, but they may not represent the “average” wedding performance. Videos are edited for the optimum presentation. But real referrals from satisfied clients are hard to fake.
Call up both client and professional references. Ask questions and use those listening skills. Even if they give a rave review, you’ll often be able to “read between the lines” if there were any issues or problems.
Ask around and search the internet for reviews. Check the Better Business Bureau for any outstanding complaints against the business. Weigh all of this information into your choices.
Here are 8 Must Ask Questions to ask ALL your potential wedding professionals before booking:
1. How many weddings do you do per year? How much experience do you have?
This is an extremely important question. Ideally, your wedding professional should have ample experience specifically with weddings. Not only will they be more skilled in their craft, this also makes them a valuable source of information and ensures that your wedding day goes smoothly.
2. How much do you cost?
Price is often relative, especially when you factor in experience, reputation and expert skill. Generally, the most talented professionals have a higher price tag because they are worth it.
3. How much is the deposit?
4. What specifically is included in that cost?
Because packages often vary, it’s likely that you won’t be able to compare one vendor exactly to the next without doing a little figuring. The lowest cost isn’t necessarily the best deal; some higher quotes include services that you have to pay extra for in other packages. Make sure you take this into account.
5. What happens if I cancel? What happens if you cancel?
Find out if your deposit is refundable under any conditions. Does the wedding professional have a back up plan if something happens to them?
6. Do you use a contract?
If the answer is No, RUN! A contract is designed to protect both you and the wedding professional. Don’t settle for a verbal agreement that won’t hold up in court.
7. Are there any additional fees?
Taxes, service charges and travel fees can add up quickly. Make sure you understand exactly what is included and if there are any other fees you’ll have to pay. This should be clearly defined in your contract.
8. Do you carry liability insurance?
The answer you’re looking for here is yes. This protects you in case an unfortunate accident should occur on your wedding day. It’s also a sign that this is a reputable business; since most “fly by night” operations don’t invest in insurance.
If chosen wisely, with the right wedding vendors you get expert help and advice…for free!
You can visit us at www.EnhancEvents.com for more information about wedding planning tips.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)