Ask an Expert | Lindsay Pitt of TOAST Events
Tuesday September 28th, 2010
Recently, Lindsay Pitt of TOAST Events, was kind enough to answer our questions about her experiences as a wedding planner and to share some of her expert advice. Lindsay manages an average of 60 events per year. She is the creator of TOAST Events, a full service event planning and coordination firm located in Atlanta. TOAST specializes in signature weddings with flawless executions. TOAST has also worked with Cake & Pictures photographer David Murray on three recent weddings.
What made you want to become a wedding planner?
Over the years, I have planned all types of events, but the ones that stuck with me were the weddings. I love the personal connection of getting to know the couple and developing an event around their personality and style. When I knew I wanted to open my own business, it was natural for me to focus on weddings, as they were the events that resonated with me the most.
What is unique about you and your planning style?
My goal is to make the planning process fun and stress-free for my clients. I pride myself on my level of customer service, attention to detail and availability. These traits allow my clients to feel at ease and enjoy their engagement and have fun planning the wedding.
What’s an interesting fact about you that would surprise people?
I am not married and have no idea what type of wedding I will have someday.
Where should brides save their money?
There are lots of tricks to saving money. If it’s possible to repurpose any flowers from the ceremony for the reception without guests knowing, I always recommend that. I also do not always find it necessary to have an abundance of flowers at the church if budget is an issue. The church is about the wedding ceremony and guests will be focusing on the bride and groom. Guests also spend the shortest amount of time at the ceremony site, so it makes sense to trim on décor where your guests are going to spend the least amount of time.
What is your favorite and least favorite recent wedding trend?
I’m loving the trend of a cohesive theme of a wedding, especially when it ties in the couple’s interests, hobbies or things they like to do together. I am not overly wild about trends that will not withstand the test of time. You want to look back at your wedding photos and not be able to tell what decade the wedding took place.
What is your favorite wedding memory?
Oh gosh, there are so many! A favorite that comes to mind was a wedding where the bride was from New Orleans. As the reception ended, they surprised the guests with a second line complete with personalized Mardi Gras beads. The entire bridal party donned masks and the bride and groom led the parade. It was the most fun way to end a perfect night.
Best bride advice?
Don’t get hung up on too many details, enjoy your engagement and DO NOT go into debt for your wedding.
Lindsay Pitt, a Certified Special Events Professional, is the founder of TOAST Events. For over 10 years she has played an integral part in the Atlanta, GA events scene. Lindsay has also been featured on Get Married television and WE TV.
