What Motivated me to start awl?
From an early age, I loved to entertain and did often. In my early 20’s, I was exposed to high end events and at that time was running a clearing house at the Mercantile Exchange. I knew I could do it and do it better and saw an opportunity to make it better. It was a very male based industry at that point and I was on a Mission to find the best vendors, venues, etc for my clients but also ones that will be able to create my clients’ dream wedding. At that point in time – clients were told what to do and who to use, but I saw that the decision was to be made by the client and not the planner.
What makes Affairs with Linda stand out or different from others?
Experience – extensive and expert knowledge have made me more valuable over most planners. My relationship with vendors has made it very comfortable to work with all of them. I am not married to anyone in the industry but try to find the perfect fit within budget for my brides and grooms. Careful listening which many planners do not do – they impose their ideas and do not listen to what the client is saying. I am a team worker – I work with all vendors regardless if I have recommended them or are new to me. I am not an alarmist and handle tough situations calmly while protecting my client. I do not sign contracts with the vendors – they go directly to the client so they know what to expect and what they are paying for.
What is my best advise for newly engaged couples?
Celebrate your engagement and then decide what is most important for you as a couple - date, place, music, mood, etc. Then hire a planner to help you with everything. I suggest talking or meeting with at least two planners to understand how they work and if there is a connection. Budget plays a large part in the planning. So be realistic and this is where I come in with budget friendly vendors. I want to make this very special planning fun and budget friendly. A phone call to a planner costs nothing.
What is most the gratifying part of my business?
At the end of the night, when the couple come to me and hug me, telling me this was the BEST night of their lives. Also when families return to me to plan more events for them as well as recommend me to their family and friends. I have been with some families over 20 years. They have become my family, by sharing special moments in their lives.
What three words describer my business best?
Experience, Honesty and Compassion
Affairs with Linda
1831 Mission Hills Road, #311
Northbrook, IL 60062
847-254-9891
Follow Linda on Instagram (@affairswithLinda) to see more real weddings
and events and visit affairswithlinda.com
Photography by:
