As an introduction to our brand new blog, I (Sisi Contreras) decided to ask Rebecca Foster some questions in order to find out more about her journey with Indigo Event and Design and some tips for future brides to keep in mind.
Question 1: From your childhood was there anything that foreshadowed you becoming an event planner?
As a single mom, my mother started her own business called Performance Parties. She would go to birthday parties dressed as Disney characters, and I’d dress up with her. It was so much fun to see the excitement on the kids' faces. Through this experience I was exposed to the beauty of celebrating others; not to mention the inside scoop of starting and running your own business. We were always really big celebrators in my family; celebrating half birthdays and even throwing first tooth parties. Celebrating others is a huge part of who I am and I love that I actually get to do that as a part of my job.
Question 2: When did you come up with Indigo Event Design?
In 2015 before we were Indigo Event Design, we were Parties & Events NW, and we were primarily involved in corporate events and parties. But as we did more weddings we fell in love, and we decided to shift our focus 2017 to primarily weddings and some Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. As we were thinking about names and what we represent, we were drawn to the word INDIGO not only a vibrant color but also as an ancient dye, used in many civilizations and cultures including Mayan, Egyptian, Japanese and Indian. Working with our clients to celebrate the entirety of who they are, where they came from, and who they will become together, is at the heart of who we are. So we decided to put that as our name.
Question 3: How early should couples start booking their wedding vendors?
I would say around a year to a year and half in advance. That way couples have enough time to book good vendors, and not have to rush into making any decisions. But if you book too many of your wedding vendors more than two years in advance you are opening yourself up to the possibility of being unnecessarily boxed in and not allowing yourself the freedom to change your mind.
Question 4: Does hiring a wedding planner help couples save money on their wedding?
It absolutely can, one of the things that people don't think about when hiring us are the discounts we can get our clients. Since our vendors love working with us and we make life easier for them, often vendors like photographers and florists are happy to offer our couples discounts or free stuff.
Question 5: What should a couple keep in mind when looking for a wedding venue?
First, I encourage my clients to take a step back and think big picture about how they want their wedding to feel, for themselves as a couple, and for their guests. If they want a laid back and relaxed vibe, then I might take them to look at some cozy outdoor venues. If they want a modern trendy vibe, then we will probably start looking for industrial venues in the heart of downtown. If they are looking for an elegant elevated experience, then we will probably be scheduling our walk-throughs at some vineyards, estates, or ballrooms. I think it’s important for couples to remember that their venue is their wedding canvas so it is important to base that decision on the vibe and experience they want. Then we can start thinking about more of the details, including pricing, specific location, occupancy, parking, accessibility etc.
Question 6: What are three things that separate you from other event planners?
Our experience with, and appreciation of, clients of many different cultures, our bold vibrant aesthetic, and our upbeat friendly service.
Question 7: What is one of your favorite wedding tips?
Schedule time during your wedding day with your partner to stop and be in the moment, and appreciate what's going on. Even if it's just 5 minutes here and there. Your wedding day goes by so fast and you don’t want to miss it.