The planner
Kawania (Kay) Wooten
Howerton+Wooten Events, Bowie, MD, (800) 804-2172
Years in the biz
Seventeen
Secret weapon
"My ability to help the bride and groom create a warm, intimate environment."
The planner
Tami Smallwood
Blush Wedding & Event Planning Firm, Laurel, MD, (443) 463-2885
Years in the biz
Seven
Secret weapon
Blush's philosophy – "To help our clients share their special day by alleviating the worry and stress."
The planners
Susan Curry & Areaka McFadden
Glamour & Glo Event Planning and Design, Washington, DC, Susan: (202) 247-1599/ Areaka: (301) 237 2441
Years in the biz
More than 10
Secret weapon
"Our tailored Wedding Bible -- It includes all the details of the events."
plan ahead
"Most of Baltimore's rain is accrued in the summer, so always have a Plan B! And if it should rain, I tell the bride, 'A wet knot is stronger than a dry one, but tie that knot under a tent! Summers in downtown Baltimore can also be tough when it comes to traffic, availability of venues and hotel rooms. This is due to tourist activity and baseball games." -- Tami
economical dates
"Brides who are willing to break from tradition may want to marry on a weekday. Some venues, such as Ceresville Mansion (301-898-0466), have discounted weekday rates." -- Susan & Areaka
local flavor
"Incorporate the popular Maryland blue crab through appetizers or in your dinner entre. Mountain Branch Grille & Pub (877-588-1492) is a venue with great crab cakes! Treat your guests to the official Maryland drink (milk) by featuring the 'Wedding Cake' cocktail. The drink features milk and cream as two of the ingredients." -- Tami
outdoor weddings with a view
"I'm a big fan of the national parks. A few of my favorites are Great Falls Park in McLean, Virginia, The Tidal Basin, west of the Jefferson Memorial, and The Netherlands Carillon in Washington, DC. You will be required to get permission from the Division of Park Programs (202-619-7225)". -- Kay
summer heat
"Summer weddings can be gorgeous; however, keep in mind the glare of the sun can be brutal for your guests. Visit the venue at the time of day you wish to have your ceremony to see how high or low the sun will be. Inspect the restrooms and ask the venue to spray for mosquitoes ahead of time. Instead of metal chairs, which might burn your guest's backsides, opt for wood or chiavari chairs." -- Susan & Areaka
brand-new venue
"One of my favorite new venues is the W Hotel in Washington, DC (202-661-2400). This hotel still has all of the great architecture and views left from the old Hotel Washington, but the new renovations make it quite gorgeous and very hip." -- Kay