The ABC Insider — Your Monthly Member Connection

 
 

February: A Month of Love, Momentum & Possibility

 

Message From The President

 

February has always held a special place in the wedding industry—and for good reason. Not only is it the month of love, but it’s also National Weddings Month, a designation proudly established by the Association of Bridal Consultants many years ago to recognize the impact, artistry, and professionalism of our industry.


What began as a way to celebrate weddings has grown into something much bigger: a reminder of the role we play in helping couples navigate one of the most meaningful seasons of their lives. From the first inquiry to the final send-off, our work matters—and February gives us the perfect moment to reflect on that purpose.


As we step into the second month of the year, there’s a powerful energy in the air. Engagement season is in full swing, new inquiries are coming in, and many of you are setting intentions for how you want this year to look—for your business and for yourselves. February is that sweet spot where excitement meets action, where ideas begin turning into plans, and momentum starts to build.


It’s also a wonderful reminder that growth doesn’t happen overnight. Just like relationships, businesses flourish with consistency, care, and community. And that’s exactly what ABC is here to provide—support, education, connection, and opportunity every step of the way.


A special reminder: Our Trendsetter Awards applications officially open today! These awards are designed to recognize innovation, leadership, creativity, and excellence within our community. Whether you’re applying for yourself or nominating someone who inspires you, I encourage you to take part. Your work deserves to be celebrated.


As we continue through this exciting season, I encourage you to stay engaged, lean into your goals, and take advantage of all that ABC offers. This year is full of potential—and I can’t wait to see what you accomplish.


With gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead,


Veronica M. Foster, MWP

President, Association of Bridal Consultants

 
 
 
 
 

Education & Courses

Build Your Professional Edge in 2026!

 

Corporate Event Planning

This course is your guide to mastering the art of planning major corporate events, from inception to execution. You'll explore each crucial step, including research for the perfect venue, defining the scope of work, meticulous project planning, crafting timelines, managing budgets, ensuring security, and more. The Corporate Event Management course is your gateway to acquiring the knowledge, experience, and support required for a thrilling career in event planning.

 

Fundraising

Events

In this course, you'll gain the knowledge and skills needed to successfully plan, produce, and manage charity and fundraising events. Discover the intricacies of approaching organizations seeking to raise funds, helping them meet their financial goals while ensuring the event's success. Throughout the course, you'll explore key aspects of fundraising event planning, including identifying an organization's purpose, selecting target groups, determining the ideal time and location for fundraising, and setting budgets.

 

Pricing For

Profit

Unlock the secrets to pricing your services confidently, designing irresistible packages, and creating proposals that win clients. This course is tailored to help both seasoned professionals refine their pricing strategies and newcomers establish a strong foundation in a competitive market. By understanding the art and science behind pricing structures, you’ll learn how to position your services as both valuable and appealing to your target clientele.

 
 
 
 

Community & Connection

You're Not Building This Alone

 

Feb 3: ABC Florida Luncheon - What’s Next in Weddings: Trends, Expectations & Design Shifts for 2026–2027”

 

Join us for an inspiring and insight-packed educational luncheon featuring Karen Cerboni of EventFull Weddings, as she dives into the wedding trends shaping 2026 and 2027—and what today’s couples truly expect from their vendors.


This session goes beyond surface-level trends and gets real about how the next generation of couples is changing the way we design, plan, and do business.

 
 

Feb 4: How to Make Your Website Speak to AI (Without Ruining It for Humans)

Link Provided On Website Shortly

 

Yes, you need to attend!

 
 

Feb 10: Pathway To Accreditation: A monthly Accountability & Coaching Circle

 

These monthly sessions are designed exclusively for planners and vendors who are preparing to submit their Accredited Wedding Planner (AWP) qualifying binder or to deliver their Master Wedding Planner (MWP) presentation.


Please note: You must have signed up in January to be a part of this event.

 
 

Feb 18: Adjusting to Change In The Wedding & Event Industry: Leading with Clarity, Calm & Confidence

 

Led by Charessa Sawyer

 

Feb 19: Members At Large - Love Your Professional Partners (Online)

 

Please note: These events are for the States without a current State Manager.


Theme: Building Vendor & Venue Relationships

Session Focus: Networking with local businesses


Learn how to identify strong vendor partnerships and create mutually beneficial relationships that improve the client experience.


Learning Outcomes:


How to build a preferred vendor list

Communication strategies

Best practices to avoid conflict

Guest Speaker: Sally Lorensen Conant, PHD from the Association of Wedding Gown Specialists

 
 

Feb 18: ABC Puerto Rico - From Save the Dates to Thank you: The Wedding Paper Trail

 

Join us for an informative and practical ABC Local Networking Group (LNG) meeting focused on one of the most overlooked—but essential—elements of the wedding planning process: the complete wedding paper trail.


Presented by LiliWeds, this in-person session will guide wedding professionals and vendors through every stage of wedding stationery and printed communications, from the very first Save the Date to the final Thank You card after the celebration.

 
 

Feb 23: ABC Indiana Member Exclusive Event - Fork & Ale House

 

More information coming soon!

 

Feb 24: ABC Delaware - Business Bunch & Beaches: An Exclusive Networking Series

 

The Association of Bridal Consultants – Delaware Chapter invites you to join us for Business, Brunch & Beaches, a relaxed and intentional networking luncheon designed exclusively for wedding professionals.


This in-person gathering brings together local wedding industry creatives for meaningful connection, collaboration, and inspiration. Enjoy a delicious brunch, build relationships with fellow professionals, and experience a guided site tour of a beautiful wedding venue, all in a laid-back, coastal setting.

 

Feb 25: ABC California Love - Conversation + Connections

 

California Love: ABC Connections & Conversations is a monthly virtual gathering created to foster connection, growth, and collaboration among wedding and event professionals across the state of California. Hosted by the ABC California State Director and leadership team, this ongoing series brings together current members, past members, and those considering membership to stay informed, engaged, and inspired.

 
 
 

National Weddings Month Spotlight

Did you know that National Weddings Month was established by the Association of Bridal Consultants?


Years ago, ABC recognized something powerful: weddings are more than just events — they are milestones that bring together families, cultures, and communities, while supporting an entire industry of dedicated professionals. February, already known as the month of love and proposals, was the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the importance of weddings and the professionals who make them possible.


National Weddings Month was created to:


  • Celebrate the wedding industry and its impact
  • Highlight the professionalism of wedding planners and vendors
  • Educate couples on the value of hiring qualified professionals
  • Encourage excellence, creativity, and continued education


Today, that mission is more relevant than ever.


As engagement season peaks and couples begin planning their futures, February serves as a reminder of the role we play in guiding them through one of the most meaningful seasons of their lives. From logistics and design to problem-solving and emotional support, wedding professionals do far more than plan events — we create experiences, memories, and moments that last a lifetime.


For ABC members, National Weddings Month is also a time to:


  • Reflect on your growth
  • Reconnect with your purpose
  • Recommit to excellence in your business
  • Celebrate the impact you make every day


As we move through this exciting month, we encourage you to embrace the momentum, share your passion proudly, and continue setting the standard for our industry.

 
 
 

A practical look inside the Florist Handbook where goals, budgets, and systems come together to support confident floral business decisions.  

 
 
 
 

Trendsetter Awards

Where the Best Inspire the Rest

 

The Trendsetter Award applications are open and ready to go!!


Click the link below, read more about each award, and the qualifications. Nominate yourself or a fellow professional!


There are 21 Awards!!

The Heart Award

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for (audience)? Why should they care (benefit)? What do I want them to do (call-to-action)?

 

Wedding of the Year

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for (audience)? Why should they care (benefit)? What do I want them to do (call-to-action)?

 

Agency Champion

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for (audience)? Why should they care (benefit)? What do I want them to do (call-to-action)?

 
 
 
 
 

We'll Be At CaterSource & Special Event In March!

If you’d like to attend the tradeshow portion only or if you are already going, be sure to receive your FREE tradeshow-only ticket as part of our partnership!


This gives you access to:


  • The bustling expo floor is filled with the latest products and services
  • Networking opportunities with top-tier vendors and fellow professionals
  • A front-row seat to the trends shaping the wedding and event industry


Whether you’re taking the stage or walking the show floor, Catersource + The Special Event 2026 is your chance to grow, connect, and represent the ABC community on a national level.


Use promo code ABC2026 for a FREE Exhibit Hall pass.


Catersource + The Special Event, The Ultimate Celebration of Catering & Event Excellence, March 2-5, 2026, in Los Angeles, CA – Get ready for the industry event that changes everything! Hear game-changing insights from keynote legends Rich Bracken and Julius Solaris, learn from top catering and events pros who've mastered the business, explore exclusive venue tours and Behind the Scenes at Universal Studios, discover breakthrough solutions in our premium exhibit hall, and network like never before at premium showcasing events. Register now — your next big opportunity starts here! 


Let’s make an impact in Los Angeles together!

 
 

Get Involved / Stay Connected

Not sure where to start? Reply to this email...we are here to help!

 
 
 
 

Save Your Spot At World of Weddings 2026!

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! World of Weddings is where education meets inspiration — bringing together wedding professionals from across the globe for powerful learning, networking, and celebration. Join us November 2–5, 2026, in Cancún, Mexico, for dynamic sessions, industry insights, and the Trendsetter Awards. This is your chance to invest in your growth, your business, and your community.


🌴 Don’t miss it — register now!

 
 

Thank you for being part of the ABC family!

Your membership powers the next generation of wedding professionals.

Thank you for being part of the ABC community. We are excited for what this year holds and honored to support your professional journey.


Let’s make this a year of clarity, confidence, and connection — together.

 
 
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