Greetings HWB readers;
Please help us welcome this week’s Industry changer, Merlyn (Wedding Planner) of Flawless Events FLA – Miami.
Can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself ?
My name is Merlyn Donatien and I am the CEO and Lead Planner of Flawless Events Fla. I absolutely love being part of happy moments whether it be a wedding, baby shower, engagement party, etc. It truly is my passion to help couples and families enjoy those moments without having to worry.
What’s a normal weekend like for you?
If I’m not busy with an event then I’m preparing for upcoming events or meeting with brides to plan for upcoming weddings. But on event weekend it can be a mixture of excitement and a little nervousness because honestly you can never tell what the day will bring.
What inspired you to start your wedding planning business?
At a young age I was always planning weddings and events for family and close friends. There’s just something about seeing the happy faces on the BIG day that always spoke to my heart.
What are some of the challenges you face in the wedding industry?
Marketing is always the toughest. Marketing a product is much more easier that marketing a service. Some people understand the value but others still need to be educated.
Dealing with couples is not easy how do you stay motivated?
Honestly seeing the happy moments on the day of the wedding always gives me chills. Between the exchange of vows, the first kiss, the first dance and seeing how happy the couples are keeps me motivated.
What are three things that no one tells you about being an wedding planner?
First, there is so much more than just planning. Many times you actually become part of their family. You spend weeks and sometimes months meeting and getting to know the couple and some of their immediate family members that at the end of it all you still keep in touch with them. Many of my brides I still keep in touch with and some have become great friends.
Second, there are many behind the scenes things couples would never imagine could happen and a great planner never lets that couple know what happened.
Last, you also become a confidant to the bride when she’s going through the not so fun parts of planning such as bridal party drama, guest list issues and more.
What advice would you give to a upcoming wedding planner?
Have patience. It can be frustrating in the beginning while building your brand but with patience you will get there. Just focus on providing your clients the ultimate best experience.
What’s Next For you and your business?
Many of my weddings are local in South Florida but I also have a few in Haiti. I want to continue in both markets and hope to expand to other islands for destination weddings. I currently do plan destination events in other Caribbean islands and would love to expand into providing wedding services as well.
Social Media links
website: http://www.flawlesseventsfla.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flawlesseventsfla
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flawlesseventsfla
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlawlessEventFl
