Uncategorized , Vendor Spotlight
wedding vendor spotlight featuring Joseph Akers {PaperFreckles}
What motivated you to start your business?
My other business, Brainchild Collective had begun to receive more and more requests to design wedding invitations via word-of-mouth from brides we had worked with before. Of course, the business name “Brainchild Collective” doesn’t conjure up lots of images of wedded bliss, and the main focus of Brainchild Collective is to work B2B with other small-to-medium sized businesses rather than B2C. So, we decided that if we’d like to keep growing the wedding invitation side of things we should develop a separate business. PaperFreckles has a much better ring to it for the invitation and stationery industry, don’t you think?
Tell us why you think your business is successful.
We feel successful every time we create something for a client that really elicits an emotional connection. This work is, after all, part of an extremely intimate and meaningful event – one that (hopefully) is once in a lifetime for our customers. The fact that all of our business, to this point, has been via word-of-mouth really means so much to us. We are so happy when a bride loves her wedding paper and experience with PaperFreckles so much that she suggests us to her friends – these referrals reinforce for us that our commitment to delivering great design and customer service are what make us successful.
What is your favorite part of the process when working with a bride/couple?
The best part has to be the interaction we have with the bride/couple as we develop their pieces. When they’re truly invested in the process and enjoy it as much as we do, it really is a great experience. Spending time with the couple to understand their vision and personalities helps us to deliver the best possible product to them.
What do you think sets your product apart from the others?
We truly believe that customer service is the keystone to any great product – it’s not only about what you are delivering, but how you deliver it. Especially in this field, a bride wants to work with someone that she really likes and trusts to help bring her vision to life. Our design aesthetic and the skill with which we complete each project goes a long way in setting us apart, but being accessible to the bride, being transparent about the process and being accountable each step of the way are the things that make the bride mention our name to someone else.
What inspires you?
What a tough question! Our inspiration comes from all sorts of places: music, nature, even the shape of a car, really! That’s aesthetically speaking, of course. Professionally, our inspiration comes from our customers and the role our papers play in this special moment of their lives.
What advice do you offer a bride when choosing a style for invitations?
First and foremost – go with your gut. Your invitations should be a reflection of your personality and what you feel your wedding day represents to you. Like all the other elements you’re choosing – the music, the food, the decorations – you’re setting the tone of the event that you’re celebrating with those closest to you.
In what ways do you think a wedding planner/coordinator can be beneficial to a couple?
Your wedding is a day of celebration with friends and family. It’s a day that you want to remember forever, but also enjoy in-the-moment. How can you truly appreciate and enjoy the event itself if your mind is racing wondering whether or not the caterer brought enough forks or if the baker was paid when they delivered the cake? Even if the wedding planner is only helping on the day of your wedding, there’s so much value in knowing that a professional has all the details under control, and that you are free to celebrate your own special day.
What do you do when you are not working producing invitations?
Well, I spend a lot of time building my two businesses, which involves a lot of long days! PaperFreckles also produces non-wedding retail paper products, so I spend a lot of time imagining, thinking, researching, drawing and creating. But when I’m not in the office, I have a wonderful wife and three big dogs that I get to spend quality time with.
What are you reading right now?
It’s not terribly exciting to some, but I’m always trying to improve what we do for both Brainchild Collective and PaperFreckles. My two main books right now are “Designing with Web Standards” By Jeffery Zeldman and “Web Standard Solutions” by Dan Cederholm. Not glamorous, but my clients will thank me!
What are you listening right now?
Jazz, classical, rock…I like it all really, if it’s done well.
One goal you have for 2011:
For PaperFreckles, one of our biggest goals is to launch our official website. We’ll have a section for our custom wedding work, as well as for our retail paper goods that you can buy directly from the site. It’s going to be a lot of fun, so please stay tuned!
Uncut, final thoughts:
Another piece of advice for bride’s: Don’t be afraid to state your budget! More often than not, your vendor will try to help meet it or provide a clear picture for what things cost so you can make educated decisions.
These are a must have for any bride (and bridesmaid too)!
These handy little kits contain the essentials you’ll need to those little situations that are likely to happen! Check out Mr. &Mrs. to shop for all you’ll need to be prepared for your big day!
Column gown with sheer tulle yoke and Chantilly lace bodice overlaid with three dimensional beading and embroidery, cinched at the waist by a band of Cameo Italian silk satin accented by side bow with asymmetrically pleated trumpet skirt and chapel train.
Etsy store: Open Hear Creations
Ivory silk organza bridal ball gown, ballerina sweetheart bodice with tied spaghetti strap at shoulder, beaded floral cummerbund at natural waist, gathered skirt with side pockets, chapel train.
Planning Tips , Vendor Spotlight
“Everything you need to know about wedding rentals” By Angela Smith {Classic Party Rentals of VA}
There are many details that go into planning a great event. When it comes to event rentals Classic Party Rentals of VA is your place to go for quality customer service and products. Thank you to Angela Smith at Classic Party Rentals of VA for sharing everything we need to know about wedding rentals!
How has the rental industry changed in the past three decades?
It used to be that you took a cup and matched it to a saucer and plate, and that was it. Now there’s so much to choose from. I mean, we must have 50 different kinds of cups, and every different shape of plate. The planning can be overwhelming for brides, but that’s why we’re here — to help them put it all together.
What kinds of things can be rented?
The real question is, what can’t you rent? Basically, you can rent anything and everything outside of the food and the wait staff. And there are unusual items, too, like popcorn makers and cotton-candy machines, but those may be harder to find in more remote areas.
When’s the best time to book a party-rental supplier?
We suggest you speak with us about 6 months before the wedding. That’s usually enough time for us to secure the products you want, and it gives you a chance to settle the details of the wedding so you’ll have a better idea of what you want. Keep in mind, this is a seasonal business, so there are no guarantees without deposits.
What’s your advice to a bride who’s ready to get started?
Instead of taking your mom or bridesmaid along on the first visit, bring your caterer or event planner. He or she will have an idea of the kinds of service equipment and the numbers of everything you’ll need. It becomes a much easier process for everyone involved. And if you don’t have a caterer or planner, most suppliers can hook you up with one they’ve worked with and trust.
What trends are you seeing now?
We’re seeing a lot of unusual colors enter the bridal market because tabletop and textile design now closely follow the fashion industry. Brides today want to create unique color themes — who ever heard of purple for a wedding? Now it’s being mixed with gold and silver on the table. Having gold and silver together on the table is a trend in itself.
Are there any other big trends?
Yes, the way food is being served is changing. More of our clients today want to do a casual, family-style dinner, so the demand for tables and serving pieces that suit that style is growing. Some brides mix services: We’ve seen a family-style first course combined with a plated main. There’s also more willingness to use different-shaped tables. The pantone color of the year 2011 is Honeysuckle, a beautiful pink tone. Our Iridescent Crush in Watermelon is a perfect example! Chivari chairs are a huge trend this year as well! They give that elegant look that makes every wedding look “rich” without breaking the budget.
What’s included in the contract?
Everything should be itemized with its price, as well as the delivery date, delivery fee, pick-up date, and service charge. Your party-rental supplier should also detail the amount of overage included in the shipment and what the fee is for broken pieces. Most suppliers usually let a few slide
How do you calculate the number of, say, plates someone will need?
It depends on the service. Your wedding planner or caterer will know exactly how much coverage you’ll need, but a good rule of thumb is to have five percent more pieces on-hand for a seated dinner. For a cocktail hour, you’ll need at least three glasses for each person.
Do couples ever rent from multiple rental companies?
We don’t recommend it, because it makes everyone’s work more complicated. The last thing you need is to try to figure out which things belong to which company at one o’clock in the morning. If something is delivered to the wrong company, you’ll probably be charged a late fee; then you’ll have to figure out how to get it back to them. The best party-rental businesses out there have a good variety of products, so it becomes one-stop shopping for every kind of bride.
What important items do people often forget to order?
Brides forget things like coat-check items (hangers, tags), screens to section off the kitchen area, table numbers and stands, even dance floors. Your caterer will remind you to order them, but brides may forget to factor these items into their budget, and that’s something to think about. It all adds up.
If a bride’s throwing a really small wedding, will you still rent to her?
Yes. We’ve done weddings for as many as 600 and as little as 20. The small one was my daughter’s wedding. Go figure!
How important are the linens at the reception?
They are a huge factor in how your entire room will look. Remember, not to skimp on the linens due to other items such as favors or the most expensive dress. You will look gorgeous in anything you wear, it’s your wedding day, you will already have a glow. Instead, make the right choice of making your room look beautiful , turning it into something your guests will never forget.
Important things to remember when you are renting equipment:
*Always, always check your equipment upon your arrival to be sure everything you ordered is there. If it is NOT there, you must call the 24 hour pager number, if after hours, to let your rental company know.
*Typical rental orders are dropped off and picked up without any setup/breakdown from the delivery drivers. It is appreciated that everything be left for pickup the same way it was left for drop off, especially to avoid additional charges.
*Breakage of China, Glassware, etc. If something breaks, you must keep a piece of it and return it to the rental company so they can see it was broken and not stolen. This may avoid you having to pay replacement fees.
*Damage waiver – be sure to have your rental company explain this in detail so that you understand what it covers and what it does not cover.
*When comparing quotes, it is only fair to you and to the rental company that you compare it apples to apples. What that means, is checking quality of equipment as well as other charges, such as delivery fees, damage waivers and setup/breakdown charges.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN RENTING TENTS
Think safety: underground and overhead utilities (call Miss Utility to come check)
- Think height: 3’ tall stage near perimeter of tent
- Think power and water source
- Think layout
- Think surface: Grass, concrete, asphalt, wood deck
- How much space: dimension of tent
- How many people you wish to accommodate. Configurate all seated, partial seating, cocktail party?
- What other items would you need: buffet, bar, cake, dance floor, stage, etc.
- What time of day: lights, heat, a/c.
- Do you wish to enclose any portion of the tent (side walls)?
- Accessory tents: Cantering prep stations, portable potties, generators, power sources, fans, air conditioning, heating.
- Tent permits: over 300 sq feet and allow 2 weeks!!!
- Site inspections are a courtesy we offer and you should take advantage of this and let the professionals help you.
I am super psyched about my next featured vendor and almost feel like he needs no introduction, but I’ll give him one anyway. ;) Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you…Mr. Bob Schnell…
What inspired you to start your business?
Let me just start with total candor (perhaps too much), and admit that it was mostly the ‘gadget’ aspect of photography that appealed to me more than the art. I loved the precision of the equipment and what it could do. However, over the years the hardware nerd in me has been replaced by (and I cringe to say the word a bit) the artist. The image is primary to me now – as it should be. I shoot for me as well, to be honest. If I love the image, then my client will be happy as well – I have been very fortunate to work with people who come to me because they like my work.
Thankfully, I no longer have that craving for every new gadget and gizmo that comes down the road. The camera is a tool that gets me to the image, but the image is the ultimate goal.
Tell us why you think your business is successful.
Is it successful? How nice 
Seriously though, what I bring to the table is personality and a comfort with people. Weddings can be very stressful, and I do not need to add any of my own. I don’t have an ego, and I think it translates into a casual demeanor that puts people at ease. Much of that comes from experience as well – and hearing the horror stories people have had with some photographers. I am serious about the work of course, but you can get wonderful images when everyone is happy.
What is your favorite part of the process when working with a couple?
Getting to know people. It is a cliché, but I really consider these people friends when we are done.
What do you think sets you apart from other wedding photographers?
Hmm. I am not a big follower of the trends in photography (and there are plenty of them). I try to keep my work a little new and a little timeless as well. Don’t get me wrong, there are many images I have seen with heavy textures, or washed out colors and exposure that I like quite a bit. However, I just can’t bring myself to use them except in the most rare cases. I want my work to be as current twenty years from now as they are today.
What are your 3 must haves for every shoot?
Backup equipment, a really sharp 50mm lens, a 5 Hour energy drink
Are there ever any moments when you have to step of our your typical “role” as a wedding vendor to assist with an event?
Almost every wedding in fact. When a couple does not use a wedding planner, quite often the photographer becomes one – at times anyway. Cutting the cake, the bouquet/garter toss are often times when the couple seem a little lost as how to proceed. It’s fine.
What inspires you?
Again, a cliché; but the light often inspires me. I often come upon a scene during a regular day and wish I had a model, or a couple that I could throw into this wonderful light and capture it.
What advice do you offer bridal couples BEFORE their wedding day?
Relax. Understand that things rarely go completely as planned, and the guests will never know if the caterer forgot one of the canapés. Enjoy yourselves on your day – I will capture the memories.
In what ways do you think a wedding planner/coordinator can be beneficial to a couple?
Mostly, they are a HUGE source of info and recommendations for other vendors. They can guide their clients with their personal experience with this vendor or that one. These are not paid recommendations either (at least not in Richmond anyway), but honest opinions from working with a DJ, florist or photographer. That alone is worth using a planner.
What do you do when you are not working a wedding?
Editing images, cooking, laying in a hammock (not often enough)
What are you reading right now?
I just finished The Passage by Justin Cronin. An extremely well done apocalyptic thriller written with a spare and beautiful style.
What are you listening to right now?
I really like the Black Angels right now. I am always listening to the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. I seem to have a theme going with bands with Black in the title
One goal you have for 2011:
Always improving the work. Also more albums and wall prints for clients. The big ‘want’ from wedding clients now is keeping the images – which I have no problem providing. However, I worry that they are not thinking beyond that point. What do you do with that disc of images then? Your wedding photography is too important to print at Costco, or simply keep on your computer somewhere. A good photographer can create a album that becomes a family heirloom, or classic wall art that make a house a home.
Uncut, final thoughts:
What I do is not rocket science of course, but it does provide a conduit into people’s lives. I love capturing an image of someone who is not comfortable in front of the camera and making them see themselves in a new and exciting way. I really enjoy the connection those images create.
But then, I sometimes drink milk right from the carton, so what do I know?
Bob’s thoughts on Lariza:
I met Lariza through another wedding vendor and was immediately struck by her style and irreverent humor. She possesses a wonderful mix of professionalism and warmth that makes you feel like you have known her for years.
Searching for a great alternative to the traditional wedding guestbook? Look no further, Double Trouble Puzzles has it! Create your own unique guestbook customized with your personal photo. Each puzzle is hand cut, piece by piece to provide you with a one of kind heirloom.
Source: Double Trouble Puzzles
BHLDN by Anthropologie- Crisp matte taffeta with scooped neckline
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