We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Diana Dorsey a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Diana, appreciate you joining us today. Some of the most interesting parts of our journey emerge from areas where we believe something that most people in our industry do not – do you have something like that?

One common misconception in the wedding industry is the concept of a “day-of coordinator.” Many people assume that a planner can simply show up on the wedding day and successfully execute the event. However, the reality is that this approach is not realistic, nor does it reflect the depth of preparation required to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for the couple.

Executing a wedding is not just about being present on the day of the event. It involves understanding the couple’s vision, coordinating with vendors, creating a timeline, and troubleshooting potential issues well in advance. A “day-of coordinator” who walks in without prior knowledge of these details would be set up for failure—and so would the event.

For this reason, I prefer to use the term “wedding management” instead. It more accurately reflects the behind-the-scenes preparation and collaboration required to bring everything together. Wedding management involves stepping in weeks or even months ahead of the wedding to organize details, communicate with vendors, and ensure all moving parts are aligned for a smooth event. It’s a comprehensive service that safeguards the couple’s investment in their special day and guarantees the professional execution they deserve.

By shifting the narrative from “day-of coordination” to “wedding management,” we elevate the level of service couples can expect and emphasize the importance of preparation. This shift not only benefits the couple but also fosters better communication and collaboration among all the professionals involved in making the day extraordinary

Diana, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

With over 10 years of experience as a wedding planner, my career has been incredibly rewarding in countless ways. I have the privilege of turning dreams into reality, creating beautiful and seamless events, and witnessing my meticulous plans come to life. One of the greatest joys of my work is seeing my clients truly happy, relaxed, and able to savor every moment of their special day. It’s a reminder of why I do what I do.

Beyond the beauty and creativity of event planning, I thrive on the challenges that come with it. I’m a natural problem-solver and love working under pressure to tackle logistical hurdles and ensure everything runs smoothly. These challenges are not just obstacles but opportunities to grow, refine my skills, and make each event a unique, memorable experience.

My journey to becoming a wedding planner has been shaped by a variety of experiences that have equipped me with a diverse skill set. From choreographing waltzes for quinceañeras to teaching preschool, I’ve honed my ability to manage schedules, adapt to different needs, and remain calm under pressure—skills that are invaluable in wedding planning. These experiences have not only shaped me as a professional but also given me a deep appreciation for creating meaningful celebrations.

At the core of my work is a dedication to delivering exceptional service. I provide a range of services, including full-service planning and wedding management (what some might call “day-of coordination”). I guide my clients through vendor selection, timeline creation, and every intricate detail to ensure their vision becomes a reality. My approach is deeply personalized because I believe every couple deserves a wedding that reflects their unique love story.

What sets me apart is my commitment to collaboration and trust. I don’t just plan weddings; I build relationships. I work closely with my clients and their chosen vendors to create a cohesive and joyful experience. I also set clear expectations to ensure everyone involved feels confident and supported throughout the process.

One thing I’m particularly proud of is my ability to stay calm and composed during even the most challenging moments. Weddings are dynamic, and things don’t always go as planned, but my clients know they can rely on me to adapt and find solutions that protect their day.

Ultimately, I want my clients to know that I am as invested in their happiness as they are. Whether it’s creating a stunning design, managing logistics, or simply being a calming presence on their big day, my goal is to provide peace of mind so they can focus on what truly matters: celebrating their love.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

Building lasting relationships with my clients is a cornerstone of my work as a wedding planner. I believe communication and trust are key to fostering loyalty and creating a positive experience. From our first interaction, I prioritize clear, open, and frequent communication to ensure my clients feel supported every step of the way.

I use a variety of tools to stay in touch with clients, including regular emails, phone calls, and personalized check-ins. I also provide clients with a detailed planning timeline and schedule periodic updates to review progress and address any questions or concerns. This structured approach helps clients feel organized and confident in the planning process.

Even after the wedding day, I make an effort to maintain a connection. Whether it’s sending a thoughtful gift after their wedding, engaging with them on social media, or simply reaching out to see how they’re doing, I want my clients to know they’re more than just a project to me—they’re part of my extended community.

Fostering brand loyalty also comes from delivering exceptional service and going above and beyond expectations. I strive to make every client feel valued and understood by tailoring my services to their unique needs and vision. By being reliable, proactive, and genuinely invested in their happiness, I create an experience that clients are excited to share with others.

Word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients are some of the greatest compliments I can receive. Many of my past clients have recommended me to their friends and family or reached out to me for help with other milestone events, which is a testament to the trust and relationships we’ve built.

Ultimately, I believe brand loyalty is about building a reputation of consistency, care, and authenticity. By creating a positive, memorable experience for my clients, I not only ensure their satisfaction but also inspire them to share their journey with others, helping my brand grow in the most meaningful way possible.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

As a wedding planner, I specialize in bringing my clients’ visions to life, crafting unforgettable experiences that beautifully reflect their unique love stories. The most rewarding part of my work is seeing their excitement and joy when their dream day comes together perfectly, exceeding their expectations.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://booksimplyelegant.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyelegantbydiana/

Image Credits

Erica Vernis, Blue Note Weddings, Heech Snaps