In the misty, enchanting city of Baguio, Jamielyn Yaneza, fondly known as Jamie, orchestrates weddings that turn dreams into reality. With 16 years of experience under her belt, Jamie blends passion, creativity, and meticulous planning to create unforgettable celebrations. In this feature, Jamie shares her journey, insights, and the secrets behind her success as a wedding planner.

Jamie’s journey into wedding planning began at the tender age of 16. Her natural inclination for organizing events quickly became apparent as she took charge of planning surprise birthday parties and special occasions for friends and family. Reflecting on her early start, Jamie says, "I started formally assisting with events when I was 16 years old. Even before that, I was already the designated planner in our group of friends. Eventually, I realized that I really enjoyed event planning and continued learning every single aspect until I knew the do’s and don’ts of the craft."

Currently, Jamie leads a dedicated team, many of whom were her former students from her decade-long teaching career. This close-knit group, consisting of six core members and additional on-call staff, works seamlessly to ensure every event is flawless. "We have six core team members, but we also have consistent on-call team members who join us occasionally for bigger events," Jamie explains.

Eimaj Events Services offers a range of options, from on-the-day coordination to full-service event planning. Jamie, who also hosts events, ensures that every detail is meticulously planned. "Our services include on-the-day, semi, and full coordination. I am also an event host, so we offer that service as well," she says.

Each wedding Jamie plans is unique, but some stand out more than others. She fondly recalls an Australian-Filipino wedding where most guests traveled from Australia and a heartwarming renewal of vows after 50 years of marriage. "The couple was still so in love with each other you could feel and see so much love in the bride’s eyes every time they talked about their love story," Jamie recounts.

When starting to plan a wedding, Jamie emphasizes the importance of the basics: budget, guest list, and wedding date. She advises couples to engage the services of a coordinator early in the process. "Once you have the basics, it is best to engage the services of a coordinator so they can assist you in finding a good venue for the ceremony and reception. The rest of the suppliers will follow after that," Jamie suggests.

Wedding planning comes with its fair share of challenges, from unexpected weather changes to coordinating large events. Jamie's calm demeanor and quick thinking are essential in navigating these situations. She shares a memorable experience of an outdoor wedding that turned into a joyous celebration in the rain. "Despite the sudden downpour, the couple laughed and danced in the rain, turning what could have been a disaster into a joyous celebration," she recalls.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, but Jamie and her team adapted quickly. "The pandemic required a lot of flexibility and creativity to help couples adapt their plans and ensure their safety," she notes. Her team even made their own PPEs to comply with health protocols, ensuring that events could proceed safely.

Jamie's love for her job is evident in her dedication to creating memorable experiences for couples. Fueled by the camaraderie of her hardworking team, she finds joy in every successful event. "Seeing the joy and happiness on their wedding day is incredibly rewarding," Jamie reflects.

Aside from her team, Jamie's inspiration comes from her son. "I want my son to learn the value of hard work, diligence, and always giving your best," she says. If she weren't a wedding planner, Jamie would likely be teaching, speaking, or even running a café—roles that allow her to connect with people and make a positive impact.

Indeed, Jamie’s story is a testament to the passion and dedication required to excel in wedding planning. Her ability to turn challenges into cherished memories and her unwavering commitment to her clients make her a true artist in her field. For couples looking to create their perfect day, Jamie and her team at Eimaj Events Services offer not just coordination but a partnership in crafting beautiful, lasting memories.