Katharine Phillips Event & Design

Katharine Phillips Event and Design is a wedding planning and event design business in Elma, New York, a town in Erie County near Buffalo. Few details are published about the services beyond its planning and design focus, so the best step is a direct conversation.

LGBTQ+ couples and planning in western New York

The business is LGBTQ+-owned. For couples marrying in the Buffalo area who want a planner who is part of their community, that is a good reason to begin an inquiry.

What to ask a planner

Because the details are thin, use the first call to learn what you need. Good questions include:

• Which planning levels are offered, from day-of help to full planning
• How design work is handled, and whether it covers decor, layout and styling
• Which venues and vendors the planner already knows in Erie County
• How often you will meet or speak, and by what means
• What happens if a vendor cancels

Planning around Buffalo

Western New York offers a mix of city venues, converted industrial spaces, vineyards and lakeside settings. Weather matters here. Winter weddings can bring heavy snow, and many couples plan flexible timing for guests who travel. Ask your planner how they deal with weather and how they handle a backup plan for an outdoor ceremony.

Preparing your brief

Gather your budget, guest estimate, preferred dates and a few images of the look you want. A clear brief helps a planner give a realistic proposal.

Practical questions

Where is the business based?

It is based in Elma, New York, close to Buffalo.

What should I bring to a first meeting?

Bring your budget, a guest estimate, possible dates and examples of the design style you like.