2024 Recap
Photo Credit: Courtney Sinclair Photography
THE NUMBERS:
JENNy reber Events…
Coordinated 9 Weddings
Fully Planned 4 Weddings
Partially Planned 1 Wedding
Designed 3 Events (aside from the fully planned events)
Worked at 9 Different venues
Led 75 Meetings with clients
Pinned 545 Inspiration Photos on Pinterest
Set out 1,096 place cards
Walked 222,773 steps (about 111 miles) while at events
THE LESSONS:
Quality over quantity - While there were opportunities to take on more events and clients this year, I remained true to my original philosophy that “less is more.” Every planner has their own work ethic and vision for their company, but my intention has never been to fill my books with as many events as possible. I know that means that growth may come at a slower rate…but I would much rather be a tortoise than a hare.
It’s ok to ask for help - I am not sure if there is a specific moment in my life that made me resistant to ask for assistant or if it is just simply my personality (#controlfreak), but I really tried to loosen my reins this year…I guess motherhood can do that you! I reached out to and leveraged the talents of some amazing assistants. I truly wouldn’t have been able to make it through this year without these individuals!
Setting Boundaries is Healthy - This is a lesson I am going to focus on in the new year, but It was brought to light this year in more ways than one. I love being available for my clients whenever they need…it’s one of the reasons I take on a limited amount of events each year. That being said, I deserve the opportunity to “unplug” once in awhile.
It is so important to be a team player - Plain and simple… Weddings and events “take a Village.” A vendor team is only as strong as it’s weakest link and it is a necessity that all vendors work together towards the common goal of giving clients the day of their dreams. this year taught me that the most streamline and stress-free events are the ones with vendors who care. these vendors don’t think one singular vendor is better than another and are willing to be a team mate instead of a solo player. In the coming year I am going to be more forthright with my “preferred vendor list.”
THE HIGHLIGHTS:
Building Industry Relationships - This year brought so many new friendships and opportunities to build upon existing relationships.
There were many “pinch me” moments. Especially when I got the opportunity to work alongside vendors whom I “fangirled” over for years.
I had coffee dates and lunch meetings with so many wonderful vendors, whom I now call friends. Indy is seriously so lucky to have so many talented and kind vendors!
Implementing a new 3d software - This year I started using BeMerri. a design software that allows me to create 3d renderings and arial views of venues. It has been a game changer!
Opportunity to work at new Venues - Being able to work at new (or new to me) venues is always so intimidating and exhilarating. This year I had the opportunity to work at one of my dream venues, the library (totally lives up to the hype!), and the brand new Conservatory at Evergreen. Excited that I will be back at both of these amazing spaces next year.
Hugo - Of course the biggest highlight of 2024 was the birth of our son, hugo! this is highlight is two-fold, because not only did hugo join our family but I successfully navigated life as a work from Home Mom. There were lots of trials and errors and tears (mostly from me!) but we made it through.
