Jamie Sears, the fabulous owner of Simply Chic Events, is one of the top wedding planners in Washington, D.C. Today she shares the ins and out of her job and why she loves it so much.
How did you get your start in event planning?
After graduating with a degree in Event Management, I started my career in the corporate events world. I enjoyed organizing corporate meetings and corporate social events but knew that I ultimately wanted to plan weddings. It was the planning of my own wedding that gave me the inspiration and motivation to form Simply Chic. It is hard to believe that was over six years ago and I am now doing what I love most as a full time career!
Photo Credit: Holland Photo Arts
Have you noticed any emerging trends?
While it isn’t really a trend, I think timeless elements are making a comeback. We’re seeing many of our clients gravitating towards a classic, refined look. I love wedding gowns with cap sleeves, lace, jazz bands lush, romantic flowers and simple details. I really enjoy mixing old with new and putting a fresh twist on traditional elements. Timeless is always in style.
I’m also seeing more use of metallics (think gold + copper). From invitations to cakes and linens to floral vessels – lots of gold this year! Gold lends itself really well to a feeling of timeless elegance while providing a touch of glam.
Photo Credit: Holland Photo Arts
I’m also excited to see that more brides are gravitating towards a contemporary look. I’ve always been a lover of a polished and clean aesthetic so it’s nice to see the return of modern décor and simple details.
What is your favorite part of the planning process?
I have two. First, I really love getting to know my clients. It’s the people I work with that make my job so enjoyable. The better I know a couple, the easier it is to help them infuse personal elements into their day. My other favorite part of the planning process is seeing the vision come to life. It’s an incredible feeling to see everything come together on the wedding day and to see my client’s expressions when they walk into their reception space for the first time. It’s moments like these that drive me.
Photo Credit: Love Life Images
What is the first thing brides should do after getting engaged?
Enjoy the moment! Pop the champagne and take time to celebrate with family + friends. Once a bride is ready to begin planning, the first “to-do” should be determining the wedding budget. It’s important to talk with those who will be contributing financially (parents, etc.) before moving forward with wedding plans.
Setting up an organized budget will save time and will help eliminate potential headaches. Many of my couples will open a separate bank account for wedding expenses. Doing so will help ease the task of tracking and maintaining wedding expenditures.
Photo Credit: Love Life Images
What is the most fun detail you helped put together recently?
I’m having so much fun helping current clients plan their after party. The wedding is going to be formal so we’re really taking the after party in a different direction. We’re creating a sleek lounge where a DJ will spin, breakfast food stations will be available and a mixologist will tend bar. It’s going to be the perfect way to end the night!
