If Kiara looks familiar it’s likely for one of two reasons: It’s because she’s a former Seahawks cheerleader (Go Hawks!) or because this is her second appearance on Engaged! We interviewed Kiara a few years ago about Bright & Co. Events, her wedding and event planning company based in Seattle, Washington. She answered all our questions, and now she’s generously offered to answer your questions as part of our “5 Questions For…” series, where every question has been submitted by one of our couples.
OMalley Photographers
If you have more questions for Kiara or are looking for help to plan your special day, you can find her on Instagram, Facebook, and the World Wide Web!
1. How often can we meet?
I not to set a limit on meetings and will meet with my couples as much as it necessitates. Those meetings can take different forms however. I utilize in-person, Skype, and phone meetings as part of my process of working with you. I ALWAYS do a site visit with you both to go over the plan for the day, but sometimes I also visit the venue alone so I can decide on spaces to use and highlight as well as to decide the general flow of your day.
2. How involved are we going to be in the process?
Every couple is different. Some want to have things run by them and some want to just hand over the reins. It’s really up to you how much you want to be involved. My goal overall is to build enough of a relationship with you (and you with me) that you feel comfortable letting go a bit. I want you to feel as relaxed as you can going into your wedding day.
Lora Grady Photography
OMalley Photographers
3. How many weddings have you planned?
My business is in its 2nd year and I have planned, or helped plan about 30 weddings now. I am also a wife and mother of two young girls, so I try to take on a limited number of clients each year just so I enjoy some time with my family.
4. Do you receive any referral fees from vendors?
No. When I work with or refer vendors it’s because I thinly they truly bring something to the table or reflect the style of my design and what you are looking for. I think that is so important. I believe in authenticity and, to me, when you introduce money to any potential working relationship things can get a little convoluted. If I tell you I really love a vendor or venue, it’s because I REALLY do. Being taken at my word is invaluable in the relationship I build with my couples.
5. Can you plan and have a backup plan too?
Of course! Wedding planning and the day of often end up being more fluid anyways! So it’s nice to have a plan, but important to have alternatives as well! Sometimes things don’t fit in your budget and you need to alter. Even more, sometimes nature gets in the way the day of and it’s important to have choices. It’s my job to implement your design and plan as much as possible but then to also know you, your vendors and your venue as much as possible in the event that something arises.
Karissa Roe Photography
