Instruction Set 1
Learning Strategies
The advantages of learning at home; types of study materials; types of examinations; accessing and using the features of our web site; determining what kind of learner you are; establishing a study schedule; using study tips; preparing for and taking examinations.
Doing It Right: The Proper Way to Act
The engagement period; wedding plans; costs; what to insert in a wedding invitation; what items should be monogrammed; what information to include in the newspaper; who should give showers; the supporting cast; remarriage.
Instruction Set 2
The Wedding
Role of a consultant on the wedding day; organizing and conducting various types of ceremonies; including home and military weddings; religious ceremonies; civil weddings; formation of the receiving line; the reception.
The Many Parts of the Wedding
The individual, small parts of a wedding, including clothes, flowers, jewelry, music, gifts, and photography; advising on the selection of an engagement ring; advising on wedding picture selections; who should wear boutonnieres.
Basics of a Bridal Business
Starting a business; marketing; merchandising; charging clients; setting up bookkeeping and maintaining records; effective advertising strategies.
Independent Project 1: Researching Careers
Learning Aid: Three-month novice membership in the Association of Bridal Consultants
Instruction Set 3
The Role of a Consultant
Becoming a professional bridal consultant and the importance of your image; who should make the appropriate decisions about a wedding; content of a wedding budget; importance of researching church rules; scheduling events leading to the wedding day; writing and executing a consulting agreement; setting your fee.
Negotiating with Clients
Determining how much to charge; using formulas to calculate your fees; calculating the amount of time it will take to complete a job; negotiating fees with prospective clients; handling mistakes in bids.
How to Participate in a Bridal Show
Initial planning considerations; choosing a show in which to participate; developing and designing a booth; marketing your participation; selling at a booth; following up on contacts.
Instruction Set 4
How to Organize a Bridal Show
Initial planning; contracting a facility; developing a fashion show; developing an advertising campaign; developing cost estimates; contacting and securing exhibitors and determining door prizes.
Ethnic and Specialty Weddings
Determining the correct etiquette for ethnic weddings; identifying the protocol for military weddings; finding sources of information on Victorian and Renaissance weddings; understanding the background of ethnic and military customs.
Independent Project 2: Bridal Show Booth Collage
Instruction Set 5
The Home-Based Business
Identifying the type of business that suits you best; evaluating your needs for your home business; time management and organization; balancing your work with your life; handling paperwork such as permits, licenses, insurance, and taxes; planning for the future.
The Business of Weddings, Part 1
Getting started; developing a business plan; getting organized; recording progress and taxes.
The Business of Weddings, Part 2
Image and advertising; how much to charge; developing a contract; marketing; understanding why brides buy; keeping clients; dealing with dissatisfied brides; vendors.
Independent Project 3: Wedding Research
Final Examination
Graduation Set
(Sent to you when all program requirements and financial obligations have been met.)
CD: Bride's Guide to Wedding Music
Book: Collin Cowie, Weddings
Book: Martha Stewart, Weddings
Eligibility for Professional Bridal ConsultantTM status and a free three-month consultant-level membership with ABC®
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