Guest Post - Jenny Murray
I’ve got a really special post for you! I interviewed Jenny of Jenny Murray Weddings + Events! Jenny is a wedding planner in the Boston and Newport area. I’ve worked with Jenny in the past and she is WONDERFUL!!
Without further ado, let’s get to that interview!
ABOUT YOU
Tell us a little about you and your business!
I started out in the bridal industry in 2000 as a manager for a bridal shop. I had zero experience but I had a flair for everything weddings and bridal, so I ran with it.
Over the years I have held many businesses in the wedding and design realm, and this past year I rebranded to Jenny Murray Weddings + Events. We are a full design and planning house.
We dream with you to create one-of-a-kind atmospheres using floral, decor, lighting, details, and texture. We listen carefully to your inspiration, understanding your event's needs while elevating and personalizing the venue you fell in love with.
From a guided concept to creation, we produce and provide all the pieces necessary to bring your dream and vision to life. Our design is always intentional and cohesive with the charm of the location. Our clients are stylish and tasteful, looking for details that are not only beautiful but inspiring.
What is the primary job of a wedding planner? Are there planners that offer different services?
As a wedding planner and designer, I hold many hats! Primarily I customize our services to match the client’s needs. Since we are a full design house that includes wedding design and floral design, we have a better understanding of the overall look and feel of your day, which lends ease to the planning process.
What services do you offer?
We offer full-service planning and design services for the month of wedding planning. We also offer:
Creative Direction for Brands
Editorial Styling
Styled Shoot Workshops
Photography + Film Management
Are you based in a specific location?
Boston + Beyond!
Are there any misconceptions about your job?
Clients often think a planner is just another expense when the reality is we work with you, the venue, and the vendors to streamline the process while looking for areas where we can save while keeping you within your budget.
Wanna save this for later?! Pin this image!! 📌
ABOUT THE PROCESS
What are some tips for working with a planner who is not near you? (e.g. if you are having a destination wedding)
We love Zoom! Many of our brides are getting married in Boston + Newport, which is a destination for many! We have weekly calls, unlimited emails, and we become DM and text buddies!
When, during the wedding planning process, is the best time to hire a wedding planner?
At any time you feel overwhelmed. This could be at the very beginning, or the week of!
How often should couples be meeting with their planner before the wedding?
This varies by each client, but we recommend staying in touch at least once a month, even if it is just a day of coordination.
Do you help couples find other vendors?
This is our forte!
Do you have any suggestions for remaining calm during the wedding planning process as well as on the day of the wedding?
We tell each and every client, the only people who are going to know if something goes wrong, are you, the groom (maybe), and your planner, so why stress? The day will always turn out better than you can imagine.
What are questions that couples are not asking but should be?
Clients tend to overlook how it will all come together on the day of - we find that the rehearsal is where we really see what could go wrong the day before, so we try to prep as much as possible in the days leading up to the rehearsal.
NOW FOR SOME FUN QUESTIONS
What is your favorite part of being a planner?
I absolutely love problem-solving. Things can and will go wrong! My team + I are hands down there to pivot and make your wedding the best day ever.
What was the most unique wedding you ever planned?
We used to host large-scale bridal shows - this was an amazing experience and has led to many connections over the years. (we don't judge weddings)
To include or not to include pets during the wedding day?
Heck yes! We have a vendor that can assist you with your fur baby(s).
Wedding dessert: cake or something else?
If cake isn't your favorite dessert, add a cookie bar, ice cream truck, or whatever you want to share with your guests!
I hope you found this useful and that it opened up your mind about wedding planners. They are NOT an extravagant and indulgent part of your wedding. They can help you with so many things including timing, etiquette, finding vendors, and staying on budget!
