Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Ko'Olina Resort-Your Hawaiian Get-a-way

...And we're back! Courtney had taken a 2 week vacation to Europe, and I just got back from my birthday/anniversary relaxation in Hawai'i.

I feel terrible that I haven't been able to get back to my postings on a weekly basis. But no worries...we haven't forgotten about you.

During my visit to my home island of Oahu, we stayed one night at the amazing Ko'Olina resort in Kapolei. 





And I'm serious when I say that we saw 4 different couples getting married at the Ko'Olina resort in just one Saturday afternoon. And how do I know that they were all different couples? Well, the moment we arrived in our upgraded room with a breathtaking pool, lagoon and ocean views, we saw a couple standing on the beach off the beautiful blue lagoon, both wearing white, and posing to take their wedding day photos.  About 30 minutes later, the minute we walked passed the pool toward the sand, we see another couple (this time, it's a groom wearing a black suit) heading toward their outdoor reception. Not even 10 minutes later, another couple approaches the sandy beach and the groom is wearing a handsome beige suit, ready to take their pictures. "Wow, that's 3 weddings" I thought to myself. As soon as Jay & I were done swimming, we walked on over to the other man-made lagoon to check it out, only to turn around and see another couple gazing into each other eyes during their photo session.  I was shocked to see that many weddings taking place all in one afternoon.  After reading up on Ko'Olina's different websites, it's pretty convincing that they offer a unique blend of paradise, tropical essence, and dedication to fit any couple's desires.

They provide different wedding packages to best fit your needs for your wedding and/or wedding renewals. Options are endless...whether you want to hide your toes in the sand while exchanging your vows in front of the crescent-shaped lagoon.




Or feel the warmth of the sun and sea breeze on their ocean front lawn.



Or perhaps your preference is to take a traditional stroll down the aisle of their Chapel by the Sea.




... Because Ko'Olina is nestled on the west coast of Oahu, imagine the sunset views you can have on your wedding day.





From the Ko'Olina Beach Villas Resorts, to the JW Marriot Ihilani Resort & Spa...you and your guests may choose from a couple places to stay.  And that's not all...they're expecting to open a Disney Resort called Aulani in 2011. Just think of the wedding packages they'll offer through that resort!

While there, you can even gather your guests together to attend the nearby luau at Paradise Cove.  You may also participate in all different kinds of activities they offer around the resorts.  Whatever your preference...if you've always imagined your very own Hawaiian wedding, Ko'Olina Resort is one to consider, and won't let you down.



Sunday, September 5, 2010

We HEART Referrals

It's quite a thrill to know people...who know people...who know people...who need you (your help, your services, your insight, your expertise). We call these REFERRALS. 

And anybody in the business LOVES referrals.  It brings forth an array of appreciation and shows a side of your capabilities.

I spoke to my very good friend Lileth of Letlove Photography the other day.  It was so exciting to hear her enthusiasm about her upcoming photo jobs with clients, and all because of leads from friends. As she continued on, she sounded more ecstatic to share with me some good news about people who might be taking an interest in our wedding planning services.  Let then started to talk about building a "community" amongst us and other vendors we already are in touch with (C&C Superstars).  I know I've read somewhere the importance of something very similar to this, and knew we would eventually apply this to C&C, especially since we're just starting out.  Basically sticking together to scratch each other backs, if you will.  And although we do understand that it all comes down to the clients themselves to choose what's best for them, I think it'd help a great deal to share with couples other vendors in our "community" we trust.  I know first hand that's what they would want...that's what they would ask for.

Not even 30 minutes after I hung up the phone with Let, I received a text message from another friend of mind, who's mother had inquired about our Day-of "Keeping My Cool" wedding package for a friend of hers who has a daughter getting married.  Just that inquiry alone, had me smiling from ear to ear, and visioning the potential we have to service any bride and groom out there.  Just the fact that C&C Engagements is being looked at as a force in the wedding biz who can help make wedding dreams come true is absolutely exhilarating.  Aside from that, what makes this post more special is that we've begun researching several venues for two sets of newly engaged couples who have plans to get married in 2011.  Courtney & I are very pleased and fortunate that they've entrusted us to help them with certain parts of the planning.

Some of you may understand the feeling of being recognized and how it feels to be acknowledged of what you do best, and even with the referral that you can do the job, it's a fulfilling moment. And that's just the beginning.  It's no easy task, but with this "buzz marketing" (crossing fingers and toes), we can overcome the impossible, and create wedding visions into reality.