Wow wow wow!
What an amazing week we’ve had here at Hire a Bridesmaid!
It’s been a rollercoaster of fun, excitement, joy, strategy and no-sleep, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
When I started this business 4 years ago, I knew the name was catchy and would bring about some queries, but did I think I would end up being interviewed on National TV?! No way!n(Ok ok, yes I did. It’s been on my vision board since day one ♀️)
So I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone for your likes, comments, support and interest; reading all of your kind words has had me beaming all week!
I’d also like to take this opportunity to clarify that I do not just get paid thousands of dollars to turn up in a pretty dress. Sad, I know! (But if anyone would like to pay me to put on a pretty dress, I’m available.)
We actually spend hours, weeks and months working with our clients to help them plan and organize a stress-free wedding; and it’s never as simple as just rocking up on the day in time to get my hair did!
Whether it’s providing emotional support to a Bride whose friends are overseas, or planning the whole wedding and booking suppliers for the day itself, my job is interesting, complex and above all, a “job”.
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE every minute of what I do! I mean, I get paid to be at weddings!! BUT it is not as simple as it seems.
In terms of what we get paid, there’s never quite enough information in these articles, is there?!
Our services actually start from as little as $800, which is our basic “day-of coordinator” package (not a bridesmaid). This package includes a pre-planning meeting, full day run sheet and timeline, supplier liaison, and 5 hours’ assistance on the day. What we do in that time is totally dependent on how much help the couple need, specific to their wedding.
For example, we’re sometimes hired to finish setting bonbonierre on tables and look after guests as they arrive. Sometimes we hand out programs and confetti during the ceremony before rearranging chairs for the reception.
On the other end of the scale, we have full planning packages where we help organize and plan from woah to go! From budget management, finding suppliers, sourcing elements for the day, organizing hens parties and showers, through to being there for the entire wedding day (usually 8am to midnight, depending on venue times). It’s a huge investment of time and effort, but it is SO WORTH IT when I witness these beautiful couples saying their ‘I do’s’!
♥️ | ♥️ | ♥️
Yes, I am available for hire as a bridesmaid! ♀️ And we have a lovely gentleman who can be hired as a groomsman too ♂️ but again, it’s not just being a bridesmaid or a groomsman. We’re the go-to, knowledgeable person on a wedding day who’s seen it all before and can always find a solution! (Always. You’re welcome)
We come armed with experience, knowledge, an emergency kit, and a whole lotta professional fun
Back to the money: there are other excellent (and not-so-excellent) wedding planners out there who charge less, the same, and more than we do. I’m proud to say that what we do is different.
It’s not just about the job for us. It’s personality, and being a “professional bestie”.
What is a professional bestie?
Someone you can trust and rely on. Someone you feel comfortable with. Someone who’s got your back (and your front). Someone who you can ask anything of and assume they will say ‘yes’.
A professional bestie is different to your real besties though, because we won’t eat off your plate, use your roll-on deodorant, or tell secrets about your high school crush (pinky promise).
So I want to say THANK YOU again. Not just for reading this post til the end (gosh it’s long!), but for your continued love and support. It means the world to this business owner who’s just trying to make people’s lives less stressful and have fun while doing so!
And in conclusion, may I please remind you that it does not say R.S.V.P. on the Statue of Liberty! (But it does say R.S.V.P on that wedding invitation on your fridge, so be a doll and RSVP on time please?)
Thank you again, Kerstyn Walsh Director and Professional Bestie ♀️
