THE SUITE recently spoke with Atlanta Wedding Planner, Jade Ladson of The Special Occasion (TSO) Events. We first met Jade when we performed at her uber chic company re-launch at Le Bam back in 2010. Certified Event & Wedding Coordinator, Ladson is the owner of TSO Events, which services Weddings, Events, and Travel. So we decided to ask her about the latest wedding trends, as well as for advice for those looking to get into the field. Check out the interview below. And be sure to LIKE or SHARE on Facebook or Twitter!
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What type of events to do you specialize in?
TSO Events specializes in wedding planning but we also coordinate corporate and social events for clients.
Tell us a little about TSO.
TSO Events is a multi-award winning full service wedding, event, and travel planning company serving Atlanta Georgia and beyond. We provide invitations, theme conception, personalized favors, linen rentals, and an array of other services. We offer various levels of wedding planning services that can be customized to your specific needs.
What led you to event planning?
I have always been in love with love and what better way to celebrate than by hosting a wedding that has all the intriguing elements of a couple’s personality and history. As a young girl, I would clip images from magazines to coordinate elaborate weddings for my dolls.
What are the new trends you’re seeing in events?
The monochromatic look is going to be huge for the 1st half of the 2015 so what better way to make those colors pop than by adding a little bling? This year is all about sparkle, glitter, and sequins.
What is the biggest misconception about event planning?
The biggest misconception about event planning is that some people think there is a right or a wrong way to do it. It’s your wedding or event so it should be all about you and the things important to you.
What is the greatest element about event planning?
The greatest element of event planning is listening to a client’s story or vision and playing a role in bringing it to life.
What was the most challenging event you’ve ever planned?
The most challenging event I’ve ever planned was a Safari-themed party for a 9 year old. He insisted on having a 9-foot python along with other reptiles as a part of the festivities. I was a nervous wreck being that close to a live snake, but I managed to pull it off without a hitch.
What was your most memorable event?
My most memorable event was a wedding in California. The bride’s father had recently suffered a stroke and would not be able to dance with her at the reception. Seeing that this was very important to our bride, we arranged to have her father escorted to the floor in his wheel chair while she danced around him. It wasn’t the father-daughter dance that she’d dreamed of but it was a special moment because she wasn’t sure if he would be there at all. As she approached him, he managed to stand for a very brief dance. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
How do you balance being an event planner with being a wife & mom?
It took me a while to find that balance, but I think the key is sticking to a strict schedule. Once I clock out from TSO Events, I put on my Mommy Cape and focus on my family. Since we all love desserts, we manage to squeeze in Ice Cream night weekly and I always take at least one weekend per month to date Hubby.
What do you recommend to anyone trying to break into the industry?
Don’t be afraid to let your creativity show in everything you do. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner at home, packaging a gift, or hosting an event for a group, always add your special touch to it. Also, you’re never too old to learn something new. Keep your eyes open for various classes and internships.
TSO Events specializes in wedding planning but we also coordinate corporate and social events for clients.
Tell us a little about TSO.
TSO Events is a multi-award winning full service wedding, event, and travel planning company serving Atlanta Georgia and beyond. We provide invitations, theme conception, personalized favors, linen rentals, and an array of other services. We offer various levels of wedding planning services that can be customized to your specific needs.
What led you to event planning?
I have always been in love with love and what better way to celebrate than by hosting a wedding that has all the intriguing elements of a couple’s personality and history. As a young girl, I would clip images from magazines to coordinate elaborate weddings for my dolls.
What are the new trends you’re seeing in events?
The monochromatic look is going to be huge for the 1st half of the 2015 so what better way to make those colors pop than by adding a little bling? This year is all about sparkle, glitter, and sequins.
What is the biggest misconception about event planning?
The biggest misconception about event planning is that some people think there is a right or a wrong way to do it. It’s your wedding or event so it should be all about you and the things important to you.
What is the greatest element about event planning?
The greatest element of event planning is listening to a client’s story or vision and playing a role in bringing it to life.
What was the most challenging event you’ve ever planned?
The most challenging event I’ve ever planned was a Safari-themed party for a 9 year old. He insisted on having a 9-foot python along with other reptiles as a part of the festivities. I was a nervous wreck being that close to a live snake, but I managed to pull it off without a hitch.
What was your most memorable event?
My most memorable event was a wedding in California. The bride’s father had recently suffered a stroke and would not be able to dance with her at the reception. Seeing that this was very important to our bride, we arranged to have her father escorted to the floor in his wheel chair while she danced around him. It wasn’t the father-daughter dance that she’d dreamed of but it was a special moment because she wasn’t sure if he would be there at all. As she approached him, he managed to stand for a very brief dance. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
How do you balance being an event planner with being a wife & mom?
It took me a while to find that balance, but I think the key is sticking to a strict schedule. Once I clock out from TSO Events, I put on my Mommy Cape and focus on my family. Since we all love desserts, we manage to squeeze in Ice Cream night weekly and I always take at least one weekend per month to date Hubby.
What do you recommend to anyone trying to break into the industry?
Don’t be afraid to let your creativity show in everything you do. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner at home, packaging a gift, or hosting an event for a group, always add your special touch to it. Also, you’re never too old to learn something new. Keep your eyes open for various classes and internships.
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