When planning a wedding, a wedding planner might naturally be where you start. Or perhaps, if you're a bride who feels she can take on the world, you may have not even considered meeting with one. Wedding planners can be an invaluable part of your journey to the aisle. Codi Stonehouse of Sage + Stone Weddings, a wedding planner/coordinator based in Arizona, knows all too well how much work weddings can be. That's why she's made it her job to take the stress out of it all and help brides plan the day they've always dreamed of.
Q: Why might a bride, even one who is confident she can do it all, need a wedding planner?
"Let’s be honest - most couples don’t know where to start when planning their wedding. I get it, it's hard not to immediately dive into the planning process and rush to book vendors for your date before someone else does. Weddings cost a pretty penny nowadays so it's very important for you and your boo to have a clear understanding of what your needs and expectations are for the big day, even the most confident of brides needs some support! A wedding planner will not only ease the stress that comes with planning a wedding, but they can save you so much time AND money. You’ll have a built-in bestie with all the industry insider knowledge and when the big day finally arrives you’ll actually have the chance to enjoy the day surrounded by your family and friends because your planner is working their butt off behind the scenes making sure your day runs smoothly."
Q: How far in advance should couples begin working with a planner?
"I’d recommend booking anywhere from 8 - 12 months prior to the big day, especially for a larger and more traditional wedding."
Q: Can a wedding planner work remotely or should brides really find someone local?
"Wedding planners can and often work remotely, but there are some perks in hiring a local to do the job. Odds are - a local wedding planner has established a network of trustworthy connections in the area. They’ll know who to book, who to avoid and basically have the insider scoop for your wedding. A local planner can potentially work out deals with other local vendors to give you more wiggle room within your budget."
Q: What sort of services do you offer? (Month-of, full-service, or a la carte planning)
"I’m an Arizona-based wedding planner and coordinator who specializes in creating authentic moments for the wildly in love. From elopements to full blown weddings, I want to create a wedding day that is 100% you! You can find more information about my services on my website at www.sagestoneweddings.com."
Q: How many people on your staff tend to be at the weddings?
"Right now, Sage + Stone Weddings is a one woman show! I mainly focus on smaller and more intimate weddings; however, I do hire an assistant coordinator or two for larger weddings."
Q: Elopements and micro-weddings have become really popular in the last few years. What sort of planning do you offer for something on this smaller scale?
"I’m ALL about elopements and micro-weddings! I offer elopement packages to fit your specific needs, from location scouting, assistance with style design, timelines and onsite coordination - I’m there!"
Q: What is the #1 takeaway/most helpful piece of advice you want brides to know?
"Establishing you and your fiancé’s priorities for your wedding experience and making sure those priorities align with your budget should be the first step in your wedding planning process. You can’t build a home without a foundation, same goes for a wedding! And most importantly - plan the wedding you and your fiance want, not what your mom, friend, second cousin twice removed wants! White dress isn’t your vibe? Then don’t wear white. Want to elopement in the mountains with your dogs, say less - I’m there! Your wedding, your rules. I’m down to toss those traditions out the window if you are!"
Social Media:
Website: https://sagestoneweddings.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sage.stoneweddings