Today we meet Lorna Marshall, Principle Planner, Business Manager, and Event Designer at Posh & Prim's Detroit location. Lorna finds joy in putting all of the details together for a wonderful event. Her client's marriage and weddings matter deeply to her, and when she's not doing what she loves for her client's love she's working on her other passions. When she's not working you may find her singing in her church choir, or bringing laughter and joy to her children and her husband. Read on to find out more about Lorna and her work with Posh & Prim.
What inspired you to enter the wedding industry?
I always had a passion for events. But I did not turn event planning into a career until after I planned my own wedding.
If you could change one thing about the weddings and special events industry, what would it be?
I wish there was a larger pool of industry event pros—more individuals could work together as one large company instead of smaller businesses working with 1-2 people. It would be so great to have one large event company!
How does using Aisle Planner help you deliver the client experience you want?
Aisle Planner is a lifesaver because it cuts time drastically. I can import all my client's information into one system rather than having to upload the budgets, timelines, and processes into multiple databases.
What is your favorite Aisle Planner feature?
My favorite Aisle Planner's feature is the contacts section. I love the fact that my clients can have individual conversations regarding their vendors without having to search their emails.
If you weren't the Principle Planner & Event Designer of Posh & Prim what would you be doing instead, or what would your life be like?
If I wasn’t the lead planner & designer at Posh and Prim, I would be working as a caterer for a hotel.
What's one thing you wish people knew about being an event pro?
One thing I wish people knew about being an event pro is that event planners are underpaid for their services; we find our careers rewarding because it is our passion. We arent in it for the pay.
What are three things you never show up without on event day?
Three things I never show up without on an event day are a walkie-talkie, an extra pair of shoes, and my emergency kit.
What’s your personal philosophy on becoming a great event planner?
My personal philosophy on becoming a great event planner is to educate yourself as much as possible. Work for an actual event planning company. Do not assume that just because you planned events for your church or family and friends, you have what it takes to start your own event planning company. Do not be afraid to shadow someone at an awesome event planning company to develop knowledge and skills. And possibly, continue working at that same company as a lead event planner, rather than starting your own event planning company right away.
What’s your trademark in the client or event experience?
I guess my trademark for weddings is to ensure the bride has a stress-free day! My event planning always centers on the fact that this day is for the couple to enjoy and no stressful things should come into view for them! That is why I and my team are there, and I want to make sure we cover all those areas!
Is there anything you are particularly excited about working on this year?
I am not necessarily excited, but I am super emotional about the COVID-19 era. I have made it my duty to take all my clients under my wings to give them the best experience possible in the healthiest setting due to the pandemic. I want my clients to know that they do not have to cancel their weddings but may have to reduce their guest count due to state-mandated restrictions and stay-at-home orders. In the end, I want to encourage my couples to stay positive and assure them that everything will be ok.
Just for fun
What’s the most used tool in your emergency kit?
The most used tools in my emergency kit are my candle lighter and walkie-talkie.
I’m dying to design a wedding or event in…
Another country because now that my household and my family responsibilities have lessened (my kids are growing up!), I am more available and willing to do a destination wedding unlike a few years ago!
What’s one trend you think should be left in the past?
Burlap!
What’s one trend you hope to see more of?
Couples hiring all wedding professionals for their weddings versus friends or family. Also, I hope to see more small, intimate weddings and weddings that focus on the couples' experience; as well as the guests' experience.
Your favorite shoes to wear on event day?
Ellen Degeneres Shoes! I have 3 styles of the cutest and comfiest shoes. I love them! So cute and perfect for a wedding!
If you could plan any celebrity’s wedding, who would it be?
I would love to plan Oprah's wedding because she and Stedman have been in a long-standing relationship for decades.
If you could go back in time, what’s one thing you would change about your wedding?
One thing I would change about my wedding is reducing my guest list to 65-70 people, so I could afford more high-end décor.
During your time as a wedding and event professional, what’s the biggest mistake you made and how did you recover from it?
Not charging enough for my services. Once after calculating the hours I put in, I realized I was underpaid by a lot! This helped me teach my clients the value of the work we do and to continually evaluate my pricing so I can move forward in my business!
To find out more about Lorna and or Posh&Prim visit their website here: www.poshandprim.com
About the Author
