As a wedding planner, especially in central NY, I have a definite off-season where my schedule is less packed and the pace is slower. If you live here, or know anything about central New York, you know that our winters can be very unpredictable and couples tend not to get married between December and March. But, if you’re looking for a time to get married and save some money, venues often offer discounts during this time to off-set their costs.
With that being said, I am planning events throughout the entire year so those still persist. While there might be a little less buzz in my calendar, there’s still plenty to do to prepare for the upcoming wedding season and to make my services even better for my clients. Here’s a little peek into what my “off-season” looks like!
Reflect and Plan for the Future
The off-season is the perfect time for a thorough review of the past year. I spend time looking at what worked, what didn’t, and what could be improved. Was there a timeline that could have run more smoothly, a vendor relationship that could use some nurturing, or a service that clients were consistently asking for? This reflection is key in creating new plans and setting goals for the next season.
For instance, after this past wedding season it has become clear to me that more than 8 hours is desired for the wedding day. Now my packages have 10 hours built in so couples don’t have to worry about the additional hourly charge at the last minute. Because I often work with couples who enjoy a DIY approach, I want to offer more resources to help them along the way. That’s why this year, I’m organizing a workshop to guide couples through the essentials of wedding planning. Stay tuned for sign-ups!
Network and Cultivate Vendor Connections
One of my favorite aspects of wedding planning is collaborating with vendors who bring incredible talent and dedication to each event. During the off-season, I catch up with florists, photographers, caterers, and venue managers—old and new. Sometimes, I’ll attend networking events or schedule coffee meetings to deepen these relationships. It’s also a great time to scout out new venues and vendors to expand my network for my future clients.
Hosting Events for a Cause
If you’ve been following along you know that I am working on my third fundraiser for the National Brain Tumor Society. This organization means a lot to me, personally, so this is a great time to focus on giving back. This year’s Gray Games will be on December 19!
Self-Care
Planning weddings is a rewarding but demanding job. Did you know it has been named one of the most stressful jobs?! This time of year is a great time to slow down and spend time doing things like getting my nails done or reading for the afternoon. I won’t stop working completely, but it’s nice to have a slower schedule for a couple of months.
While there’s no shortage of things to keep me busy in the off-season, it’s a time that allows me to step back, refine, and reconnect with my purpose as a wedding planner. By focusing on reflection, relationships, and resource-building, I’m not only helping myself grow as a planner but also preparing to give my clients an unforgettable wedding experience.
