Most wedding planners will tell you that networking is key in this industry. It’s a great way to visit local venues and meet other great industry professionals. Tuesday evening I attended a networking meeting at the Rolling Road Golf Club in Catonsville hosted by Maryland Wedding Professional Association. Let me just say that this venue is gorgeous and unlike most golf and country clubs, you do not have to be a member to host your wedding or event there. The Georgian style clubhouse was recently remodeled and has a wraparound veranda that’s perfect for pictures.

While at the meeting I also met the owner of Caricatures by Rick Wright. As you can see from the photo he does an awesome job drawing a person’s likeness. This is a great idea for a rehearsal dinner or other smaller gatherings. He will even pre-print the couple’s name and wedding date on the paper. How fun would it be for members of your wedding party to leave with a caricature of themselves as a memento from your wedding? Or why not have one of you…the happy couple…and use in a signature mat for all your guest to sign at your reception. I’m sure it would be a conversation starter. Visit his blog to see more of his work.

Happy planning!