About
I have a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Human Services and a Masters in Arts and Education. I have an Associates in Event Design and Event Planning. My first two degrees provided me with a multitude of opportunities working with large groups of people of all ages, races, and gender. I'm very appreciative of my experiences and success in those roles. They have helped me to be more emotionally and culturally aware. Event Planning has been something I've been doing all along my journey. It's the one thing that doesn't feel like work at all. I love it to the core! From venue selection to vendor management, I make it my business to ensure your vision comes to life. Planing events should be a fun and creative experience (even if you aren't feeling either of those emotions when you're thinking about the task before you). That's what event planners are for! Let me do the hard work for you, it's my absolute pleasure.
I started planning 6 years ago when I had my first son. I then moved into planning baby showers, bridal showers, bacholorette trips, and then into consulting and coordinating for weddings. I've planned events here in Maryland, the largest was about 200 people with two events occuring simulateneously. I find comfort and tranquility in accomplishing tasks, however big or small. Sounds weird, but very true! Naturally, I'm extremely detail oriented (hence the name, wink wink), very organized, and I love to problem solve. Whose opposed to having a great time? Not a single soul! I simply want to continue to create events that give others that feeling of fun, excitement, and joy for the special event they're planning.
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Wanjiru K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
An over the phone, 30 minute consultation is all I need to get started. If you're interested in booking me, a $200 deposit that goes toward your overall bill is required. If I'm providing a full service to you for your wedding or special event, I'll be back in touch with you within two weeks to discuss what I've found for you. Contracts are signed after our next call.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Human Services and a Masters in Arts and Education. I have an Associates in Event Design and Event Planning. My first two degrees provided me with a multitude of opportunities working with large groups of people of all ages, races, and gender. I'm very appreciative of my experiences and success in those roles. They have helped me to be more emotionally and culturally aware. Event Planning has been something I've been doing all along my journey. It's the one thing that doesn't feel like work at all. I love it to the core!
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Any "a la carte" services are calculated by my hourly rate. Day of Wedding Coordination is a flat rate of $695 for 8 hours including the rehearsal. Budgets for events over $10,000, and require my full services are not based off hourly rates.
How did you get started in this business?
I started by doing small events for friends and family members. Then after my children were born I did all of their parties. I started doing larger scaled events with a mother's group I've been associated with since 2015. To date my largest event was about 200 total with two events occurring simultaneously.
What types of customers have you worked with?
My customers are typically young to middle age professionals. Additionally, I have provided services for busy moms and exhausted school teachers and administrators. I've had clients who are creative visionaries and know exactly what they want and also individuals who just want me to do it all.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A few years ago I was asked to do a bridal shower. She wanted a tea party but had no other ideas besides a few suggestions on the venue. I immediately started shopping for tea pots and tea cups. Thrift stores are perfect for that rustic feel. For months I shopped and shipped. The shower was in another state. Once the party was over, the guest literally ran to the table I used to display all the different pots. They took them home as favors along with their cups and saucers. It was a beautiful event and a lot of fun and the guest had favors they could actually use! It took about 4 months to gather each item from decor to pens and envelopes. A more recent project was a convention for kids and mom's. I planned the entertainment event for the arrival night at the host hotel. We hosted a dinner and a movie night for the kids, and a wine tasting for the moms. This event took a year to plan since it was coupled with the convention. It can be planned in a shorter window of time.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
I would advise that you choose a professional you will mesh well with since you'll talk often. Look for individuals who are responsive, competent, and clear. They should have good follow through and check in with you often. An Event Planner will ask you about your budget. It's the key to planning and very normal. We just need to know what we have to work with to make your event come to fruition.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Ask yourself the following questions. What do I want my end results to be? What are some ideas I already have? For example, colors, entertainment, favor ideas? Do I want "cookie cutter " or flare? What details are a must have for me? Am I doing this event for myself or someone else? If it's for someone else, will they be included in the planning?