meet the talented twin sister duo, Amber and Emily, behind Karson Butler Events! i had such a fun afternoon interviewing them for the blog, touring their brand new Design Studio located in Capital Hill, and just having fun with these girls. in the meantime, here are some helpful tips for brides planning their wedding…and prepared to be overwhelmed with how cute their studio is!

1. what does karson butler events do?  The twin sister duo behind Karson Butler Events specializes in designing weddings & events that reflect each client’s unique style and personality. Amber Karson, CMP and Emily Butler combine fresh, innovative ideas with over a decade of event planning experience.  Their primary focus is weddings both here in Washington, DC and destination weddings all over the U.S. and abroad.  They also plan select corporate and other social events too!

2. what is the easiest way for people to tell you apart?  Emily is the taller twin!

4. what is your favorite type style of wedding?
A: I love elegant garden weddings!
E: I prefer urban settings – something with a little bit of edge!

5. what are some important details a bride should consider when shopping for a wedding planner?   A bride and groom should consider experience and personality when shopping for wedding planner. With over a decade of event planning experience across the globe, we offer something very different than someone who just planned their own wedding and thought it was fun to be a wedding planner, so you’ll want to ask about their event planning history.  It is also important to have a planner who is well rounded with both design and logistics.  At Karson Butler Events, we’re known for both and pride ourselves on running smooth events that are also well designed.  Personality is key too – your planner will want the relationship to be a mutual fit for both parties, so know that going into your search.

6. what questions should she ask when shopping for a wedding planner?  Ask about the company’s approach to wedding planning and ensure you are clear on any differences in service offerings.  Many of us offer a variety of services that range up to full wedding weekend planning.  Also ask about the other staff on the team that will service your event and the company’s overall approach to wedding planning.   

7. what are some of the biggest mistakes you see brides make when planning their wedding?  The biggest mistake we see couples make when they come to us later in their planning cycle is spending too much money on any one particular line item.  They book a great venue but don’t have enough funds in their budget left to get the design they want.  Having a full-service planner work with you from the very beginning to help you set priorities and allocate your budget accordingly.  It will help you with vendor selection when you know how much you should be spending on each line item!

8. what factors should a bride consider when deciding on her wedding venue?  What is the max capacity of the venue should your numbers grow?  What is the rain back-up plan?  What are the extra considerations that venue choice might result in — transportation costs, extra rental items (like tents, generators, upgraded chairs, etc.) are all things you should be thinking about!

9. what are some current trends you see for weddings?  Currently “Gatsby” inspired looks are a hot trend! This glamourous vintage look is inspiring bridal gowns and reception spaces.
 
10. what trend do you see coming back in the future or would you like to see come back?  We love that clients are requesting formal wedding cakes again!  They truly can be works of art and are timeless tradition.  

11. what are some ideas you can suggest for brides on a budget?   The number one way to help your budget is to control the guest count!

12. what is the benefit of having a wedding planner?  A wedding planner can help you set your priorities, develop and stick to a realistic budget to maximize your wedding investment and connect you with a vast network of trusted professionals.They will serve as your sounding board and will be your advocate throughout your entire wedding planning journey.

13. can you tell brides what the difference is between a venue coordinator and a wedding planner?  A venue coordinator/catering manager’s primary focus is the venue & food and their focus will be on servicing the guests.  A wedding planner serves a much broader role and is your advocate throughout the entire planning process.  Leading up the wedding, your planner will help you set priorities, create a budget and design plan and assemble the right vendor team specific for your wedding. Your planner will also create a detailed wedding weekend timeline and manage all aspects of your wedding – not just the activities that are happening on property.  A wedding planner works hand in hand with the venue coordinator and catering manager, as well as all the other vendors for your wedding.