FAQs
Making an informed decision is the best decision you can make. Though we are all about laying out a visually beautiful story for you, your family, and friends, we want to make sure you're aware of the serious behind-the-scenes details so your story can be displayed to your guests as the fairytale that it is.
The Planner
ON THE MAGIC OF PLANNING
Q: Why do I need a luxury event planner? What do they do?
A: Here is the truth: a DIY resource can give you a checklist, but it can't give you exclusivity, presence, ambiance, or complete immersion in your event. When you book Rendezvous by Dawn you get concierge level service throughout the entirety of your event. I do this through getting to know you and the story you want to present to your audience and then transform that information into an experience that has YOUR personal touches throughout.
Q: What is the investment required to commission Rendezvous by Dawn?
A: Every event is a custom culmination of your thoughts and dreams. Therefore, the investment varies based on event specifications, location, and the level of production needed.
To maintain our signature high-touch standard of service and absolute attention to detail, we accept a strictly limited number of clients each calendar year. Our Event Design & Production fee begins at a flat retainer of $18,000 or 20% of the gross budget (whichever is greater).
Q: Do you offer a consultation?
A: Absolutely! I do not book a client without first having a 1-hour consultation. Your consultation is handled in the comforts of your residence or place of business.
Q: What is your financial policy regarding retainers and cancellations?
A: Upon contract execution, an initial non-refundable design retainer is required to secure your date on our master calendar. Because we commit our creative team and restrict other bookings immediately upon onboarding, all retainers and progressive payments are non-refundable, representing the dedicated work, research, and date exclusivity provided. Detailed terms are explicitly outlined in our formal commission agreement.
Q: How much time is needed to plan my event?
A: I like to spoil my clients and give them ALL the attention they deserve. So to keep from cheating anyone from the attentiveness I require for all my clients receive, again I only take a select number of events per year to allow for proper planning to bring your vision to fruition.
Q: Do you offer "Day-Of" coordination or setup services?
A: We do not. The Rendezvous by Dawn experience is defined by flawless, immersive storytelling, which requires comprehensive conceptual involvement. We only accept full-scale design, production, and planning commissions to guarantee the integrity and execution of the event.
Q: Do you have a list of preferred vendors?
A: Yes. We curate a bespoke creative team specifically tailored to your aesthetic, personality, and scale. While we maintain an exclusive global network of trusted, elite artisans, florists, and builders, we treat each event as a blank canvas and are happy to vet and onboard new luxury partners who meet our rigorous standards.
Q: Do you carry event insurance?
A: Absolutely!
ON THE ART OF TRAVEL
Q: Why choose a dedicated travel advisor over direct booking engines?
A: The internet is for booking accommodations; Rendezvous by Dawn is for orchestrating experiences. An algorithm cannot contact a resort’s General Manager to ensure your preferred vintage is decanted upon arrival, secure an unlisted table at a Michelin-starred bistro, or arrange private, after-hours access to historical landmarks. Through our deeply vetted, global boots-on-the-ground relationships, our clients receive VIP status, elite upgrades, and seamless advocacy that cannot be replicated online.
Q: How does a travel agent get paid?
A: This is the most asked question that travel agents get. The travel vendors that we book your vacations through see us as their expert sales force and pay us a commission for bringing them lovely guests like you.
For highly complex, bespoke itineraries (think: a multi-country trek with private drivers and custom tours), I charge a nonrefundable, stand alone Professional Planning Fee. This covers the hours of research and advocacy I do to ensure your trip is flawless from planning until you return home. You get the best of both worlds: industry perks and a dedicated advocate.
Q: Why is insurance included on all of my vacations?
A: Because Rendezvous by Dawn cares about your investment! There are so many moving factors in your trip and at any given time one component can negatively affect the rest of your vacation. But having insurance let's you travel with peace of mind. Paying for vacation protection can make the difference between having a short delay that's covered versus having to shell out extra money that you had dedicated to other trip expenses.
ON THE BESPOKE EXPERIENCE
Q: What does "bespoke" actually mean for my event or trip?
A: Bespoke means custom-made and perfectly tailored to individual needs and desires, moving beyond standard packages to craft unique, personalized experiences with meticulous attention to detail, much like a custom-fit suit. It is about creating something exclusive, flexible, and deeply personal, whether it's a private tour, a themed trip, or a corporate event, often involving expert planners and local knowledge to deliver an unforgettable, non-scripted journey.
It can be a menu based on the meal you had on your first date; it's a travel itinerary that leaves room for spontaneous magic. It's about creating a feeling that is uniquely, unapologetically you.
Q: Can I trust that my privacy is a secure?
A: We do no view privacy as an add-on service; it is the infrastructure of our business. When you book an event or a journey through us, your identity and itinerary is treated like classified data. Our goal is to ensure you are entirely taken care of, while remaining completely invisible to the world.
LET'S START SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL
I would be honored to be the narrator of your event or journey and turn your "what ifs" into "remember whens."