I have had the pleasure of knowing Meleka since we were in middle school together at Worthington Christian. I can still remember her framed photo of Ben Aflleck in her bedroom! Hopefully she doesn’t kill me for saying that! Its been so fun having an old friend in the industry to share ideas and talk life with. Its like when I worked in a salon, no matter what the girls in the salon do, they know whats its like to work there so we have a common ground just like in the wedding industry. She was first on my list to interview so I’m happy to share with you my questions for her and MMJ Events!

What made you decide to do this full time?

I was one of those lucky people who knew what they wanted to do at fifteen years old. I became obsessed with weddings and started my own journal of ideas (which I still have and look at from time to time for motivation). After graduating from OSU in communications, I took classes and earned my certification though International Wedding Planning Professionals. I will never forget the feeling I had sitting back and watching the reception of my very first client, I knew I was hooked and that wedding planning is what I was meant to do.

What sets you apart from other planners?

There are a lot of great planners in Columbus, but we each have our own style and qualities so it’s about finding the planner that best fits you as a couple. I feel as though one of my strong points is being relatable. I just got married in August, therefore all the things I worried and stressed about are still fresh in my mind. I want to eliminate those worries for my brides before they even have a chance to think about them.

I also enjoy getting to know my couples. I don’t just want to know what they want, but also what they like to do on the weekends, where they like to travel, and where they like to shop. I love trying to pull the personality of each individual into the wedding. It’s not really YOUR day when you just copy everything out of a magazine.

What is your favorite part of the wedding day?

This is a two part answer: My favorite thing to see is the vows, I’m a huge romantic, even with my own couples I usually tear up a little. My favorite part to experience is after the couple is announced husband and wife, they walk up the aisle and I’m the first person that gets to say “yay, you married!!!” Smiles can’t get any bigger at that moment.

Do you have packages or one set price?

I offer three levels of service at a flat rate. I understand not every couple has the same needs; therefore each level of service can be customized to their needs/wants.

What’s your style like and how do you bring your style into couple’s weddings?

I try to bring my creative inspirations to my brides rather than my own personal style. I like the fact that not every bride is going to have the same sense of style that I do. It wouldn’t be fun to plan the same exact wedding 100 times. Being able to be creative with different styles and designs is what makes my job fun!

What is your best advice for brides?

Enjoy yourself!! I am all about details; trust me it’s my job. But don’t let the details take you away from what’s really important and that is you and your husband. I can’t tell you how many brides I’ve talked to who regret letting the details get in the way of enjoying their day with friends, family, and spouse.

Tell us some up and coming trends for 2010!

Bird Cage Veils: These vintage looking veils add dramatic glamour for the bride.

Personalization: Inscribing the bride and groom’s initials on the weddings different details: invitations, lighting, dinner plates, décor, wedding cake, and favors. It’s just another way of making it your own.

Bold Colors: I’m seeing more bright and bold hues and fewer pastel colors schemes in 2010.

For more information about Meleka Jolliff with MMJ Events:

614.579.1092 mmjevents@ymail.com

http://www.mmjevents.com/ Her Site

http://www.mmjevents.blogspot.com/ Her blog

Meleka, thank you so much for being featured on our blog! Looking forward to more mock set ups, shoots and enchiladas… with the green sauce! (Which by the way is really good!)

Here are some photos from our mock set up a couple weeks ago!

 

One of Meleka’s favorites! This is totally her style!

Floral Design by Bella Floral Design. All photos were taken by me at our studio! Looks like our gray walls are gonna go well with this years trends! Just talked to a bride yesterday doing gray and yellow for her wedding colors!