Dee Merz: Event Planner Extraordinaire

By Paula Philipps

Wedding planner Dee Merz of Everlasting Memories believes in giving couples the wedding they dream of. “I tell couples their wedding is all about the two of them,” she says. “It is the greatest gift they can give one another.”

Merz has been fulfilling dreams for more than 14 years and credits her grandmothers with inspiring her to pursue her passion. “One grandmother was a fabulous pastry chef,” Merz says, “the other was an event planner for a cruise line. I can recall many lavish parties.” Her experience in catering and “epicurean delights” nurtured her desire to create her own Sonoma-based event planning business which, 14 years later, has grown to include several national and international clients.

Merz's full-service approach includes a three-day wedding plan, including a Friday night event, the next day's wedding and reception, followed by a third event the following day. She also offers hourly consultation services. “I specialize in meeting a client's needs, whether it's a picnic for guests on the day of their arrival, a unique opportunity to explore the wine country or a brunch the day after the wedding. I want their experience to be out of the ordinary,” she adds.

Most couples meet with Merz a few months before their wedding. “We talk about what type of event they want, one that is unique to their style,” she says. “I tell them their event will be their first real party together. They come to express their opinions and respect one another.”

Merz guides couples to keep their wedding event as personal as possible. When discussing what they want, she encourages them to be inspired and to “reach for the stars.” “This is their opportunity to express their passion. It truly depends upon how they want to fulfill their heart's desire,” she says.

Talking with Merz brings a sense of calmness, which she strives to convey. “I try to empower my clients and I instill calmness through my demeanor. I want my clients to feel calm and know that they don't have to panic. I think I've been able to help them realize I am sincere, qualified and someone they can trust,” she added.

Merz works with entire families as well, and has the unique ability to create a sense of ease between the wedding couple and their family and friends. “Most couples want their guests to have a memorable weekend with them. They want their friends to have an intimate time, to share the highlights with them and, most of all, to feel comfortable,” she stated.

Destination weddings are the reason many clients seek Merz's services. Wineries and private estates tend to be the most popular venues. “I have a cadre of secret places, such as wine caves, wineries that feature art or other special places to treat guests,” she adds. Themes have included a beach wedding complete with sand, more casual food and décor, and a subtle, romantic French theme featuring wine and roses. “I've also done a country look with fresh cotton linens and more casual flowers,” Merz says.

No two weddings are alike, Merz adds, “Although some people may be inspired by a celebrity or friend's wedding, it can never be reproduced.”

Merz sees a trend toward more intimate weddings with fewer guests. Most of her clients tend to be in the 30+ age group, and the majority are referred to her by word-of-mouth.

“For me, putting a team together is one of the most important aspects of what I do,” she says. “I provide comprehensive planning services, and am very detail-oriented. Whether the clients are from the East Coast or local, the team will give 200% in their efforts.”

“I've even done a '30-day plan'. I met the challenge and had fun with it,” she continued. “Most people want an event that is elegant and slightly understated. You have to give of yourself to make that happen.”