Bride Interview with Chief Event Strategist , Amarae' Blyden-Richards, MBA
I pride myself on having an immense event planning knowledge base that is truly versatile and multifaceted. In the past, I have assisted in coordinating million dollar affairs at some of South Florida’s most exclusive venues. Yes, from the lavish Breakers Palm Beach to the historically rich Bonnet House in Fort Lauderdale and Miami's lush Fairchild Topical Botanic Gardens, I have done it all! As a well-rounded event professional, I’ve also coordinated countless affairs that were ravishingly reasonable! I create the perfect blend of function and style, which will embody your vision and my expertise. With a strong commitment to excellence, my planning philosophy is driven by quality not quantity. I provide beauty, sophistication and elegance all of which will make your event truly charismatic and unforgettable. You imagine and I'll make it happen! Take a look at our Pops of Pizzazz and see how I have brought the dreams of brides to fruition!
How long have you been planning weddings and how did you become a wedding planner?

We love your services and the information you freely provided! Everything sounds fantastic, so can you tell me what sets you apart from all the other wedding planners out there?
Born and raised in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI). I have a wealth of knowledge and experience planning events for individuals of diverse backgrounds. The USVI was once the trading capital of the Caribbean. Its ports were frequented by travelers from the Netherlands, Spain, England, France, Denmark, North America, South America and even India. As a result, today’s society is still a melting pot of flavorful spice, extricate design and cultural collaboration. I am not your average wedding planner! What sets me apart from the crowd is my ability to plan and execute events that exude my clients' culture, personality and flair. I am truly an advocate for self-awareness and celebrating one’s individuality. I foster a strong relationship with each couple and create wedding designs that reflect who they are.
A few years ago, I assisted with coordinating a wedding for a Danish bride which was uniting with an Indian groom. The wedding design plan fused the vibrant culture of the groom, while maintaining the traditional essence of the bride. The event was held at a historic landmark which was once inhabited by a Danish leader. The wedding décor displayed a color palette of teal, chartreuse and gold which ignited the scene as the moonlight danced over the sparkling Caribbean Sea. The wedding feast included both Caribbean and Indian spices of curry, ginger & coconut. The guests were wowed with the soothing sounds of steelpan and the excitement of local mocko jumbie performers.
Exceptional events don’t just happen, they are crafted by design!

Who do you work best with?
I get best results for couples who want to host an event that stands out from the crowd. They are not afraid of being themselves and enjoying the spice of life. A wedding day is the perfect time for a couple to pay homage to the culture or religion that influenced, who they have become! Some of my clients have chosen to conduct a cultural ritual, serve ethnic food and even wear cultural attire. In all instances, the true spirit of each couple was celebrated in elegant style.
I am sold on your creativity, but what is your business background?
Over the past decade, I have excelled in day-of coordination, event styling, corporate event planning and strategic management. With a solid educational foundation in marketing and a graduate degree in business, I have the academic chops needed to ensure that your budget is balanced and contract negotiations run smoothly. I deliver on time and on budget, what bride doesn’t love that!
