When an inquiry arrives, I don’t see a booking.

I see two people who have taken a small, quiet step towards something important.
Sometimes they are excited. Sometimes unsure. Sometimes they’ve been thinking about it for months before they finally press send.

Before I reply, I pause.

Because how I answer matters, even if our paths never cross again.

The space before replying

I’ve been doing this work for a long time, and over the years I’ve learned that people don’t reach out lightly. An inquiry isn’t just a question about dates or locations. It’s often a moment of vulnerability – a hope spoken out loud for the first time.

I don’t rush my replies.
Not because I’m busy, but because I want my words to feel calm when they land.

I imagine them opening the email.
I imagine how it might feel to read it.

That’s where I start.

Choosing words without pressure

I’m very aware that emails can unintentionally push people. Language can hurry, corner, or overwhelm without meaning to.

So I choose my words carefully.

I don’t write to persuade.
I don’t write to close.
I don’t write to sell.

I write to reassure.

To let them know there’s no urgency being placed on their decision.
That they can ask questions.
That they can change their minds.
That it’s okay if this isn’t the right fit.

Some couples will book.
Some won’t.

Both outcomes are fine.

A human truth

I also know this: I am human.

There are days when I don’t get the wording quite right.
Times when I read an email back and think, I should of re-read again before sending.
Moments when I wish I could reach through the screen and correct the errors I may have done.

I don’t always get it perfect.

But the intention is always the same – care first, pressure never.

Holding space, even if they walk away

Not every inquiry is meant to turn into a wedding for me. I’ve learned to be at peace with that.

What matters to me is that people feel respected in the process – not chased, not pressured, not made to feel like they’re taking up space.

If they choose another path, I want them to leave the conversation feeling lighter, not heavier.

That matters.

Why this still matters to me

After all these years, I still care deeply about how people are treated at the beginning of their journey – not just on their wedding day.

Because the way we respond to someone in a moment of uncertainty stays with them.

Even a simple email can leave a feeling behind.

And if my reply gives someone a sense of calm, even briefly – then I’ve done my job, whether or not they ever become a client.

A quiet truth

Every inquiry is a reminder that real people sit on the other side of the screen.

I don’t take that lightly.

And I never want to forget that behind every message is a story still being written.

Donna ♥️