Party Partner, Inc.

I was an out-of-state bride-to-be, and I hired Party Partner, Inc. (now Christina Currie Events) to assist me. I did not fit into one of the pre-set "packages" outlined on the website-- my needs were more than just "day of" planning but not full-scale wedding planning. Christina worked with me to create a contract that was sensitive to my budget and needs, and it worked perfectly for me. I felt very much as if I had a voice in the process, yet at the same time I got a lot of ideas and direction from Christina, as well. She wasn't a "yes-woman," meaning that she didn't pretend to like everything I mentioned; yet she offered her opinion professionally and tactfully, so we always had very positive discussions.

Christina is a rare find-- she is the kind of planner who will be your friend throughout the process, yet never forget that the bride-planner relationship is ultimately a business relationship governed by a contract. There were no uncomfortable moments.

In the end, I got a few things by hiring Christina: (1) The most fantastic florist. (2) A referral to a good limousine service. (3) A DJ, about whom I got several compliments from my respected music-loving pals. (4) A last-minute hail Mary save when my printer misprinted place cards. (5) A reception with a pulled-together "look" (I had a few of the ideas, but Christina really pulled it all together). (6) A huge cost savings on all my vendors. I had a gorgeous affair that did not go over budget. (7) On the day of the wedding, my family and wedding party were able to really enjoy the day with us, without having to worry about shuttling decorations from venue to venue, pinning flowers on people, keeping the flower girl from freaking out....etc. Christina gave us the opportunity to ENJOY the day we had worked so hard to plan.

There was one day-of snafu involving my photographer, and Christina handled it well. She worked very hard to insulate me from any stress or mellee surrounding it, which is exactly what you want as a bride. So I can speak to her crisis management skills as well.