Get to Know Megan | Wedding & Sales Manager at Belle Âme Vineyard

We’re kicking off our “Get to Know You” series with someone you’re likely to see buzzing around Belle Âme with an espresso martini in hand and a big smile on her face—our incredible Weddings & Sales Manager, Megan Timmerman! With a deep love for love (and Gilmore Girls), Megan brings years of experience, a calming presence, and a wealth of tips to every couple she works with. From her favorite wedding season (spoiler: it involves full vines and a crisp breeze) to her go-to planning advice, read on to get to know the heart behind so many unforgettable wedding days at the vineyard.

1. What’s your favorite part of working with couples during the wedding planning process?

I love getting to know each couple individually - their love story, their vision for their special day, and all their little stories in between. I'm in this industry because I love love, and I couldn't be more grateful that I get to talk about love and hear about love day in and day out. I also love that this is, most often, a couples first experience with planning a wedding. I have hundreds of weddings under my belt, so I love getting to pull out all the tips and tricks to make their day just a touch better. 

2. Do you have a go-to tip for couples just starting to plan their big day?

I have 2 tips I like to give couples as they are just getting started in their wedding planning process. 

1) Enjoy this season!  You're engaged for only a short time in your life, don't let it pass you by! There's so much excitement and joy that comes along with being engaged - soak up all of those good feelings before jumping into the stress of wedding planning. It's okay to take your time in the planning process and fully enjoy each milestone - booking your venue, sending your invites, taking your engagement photos, etc. 

2) As you start planning and budgeting, I like to tell couples to select up to 3 aspects of their day that are truly important to them, the things that will take priority. This could be your venue, your wedding meal, your music, etc. Allow yourself to splurge in these areas, maybe spending a little more money than expected, but feeling secure that you're receiving the best services out there! Then, select up to 3 aspects that are of less importance to you on your big day. This could be dessert, decorations, etc. These things are the things that you need to be willing to cut back on, maybe finding a budget-friendly option or cutting it out all together. 

By doing this simple first step, you're taking the time to really consider what means a lot to you and your partner on your big day. It helps you to start off your wedding planning without disappointment when having to make those cuts. 

3. What’s your favorite season for weddings at the vineyard and why?

Oh man, this is a tough choice because they're all so great! Winter is definitely underrated.. When you get that perfect blanket of snow, cozy lounge furniture, and get the fireplaces roaring, it's so romantic and intimate. (you also get an off-season discount ;) ) June is beautiful because everything is so green. September is gorgeous with the lush, full vines. Later in the fall it is also dreamy with the colorful treeline. How do I choose?! If I had to choose, I would say my favorite is September when the vines are lush, the grapes are growing, and you just might get that brisk fall breeze.

4. What’s one detail that always makes a wedding feel extra special to you?

I love seeing touches on wedding days that make it feel extra special and intimate - having your best friend or grandpa officiate, saying your vows in private (with the photo and video crew present, of course!), having a private dinner with your new husband or wife. A wedding day can go by so fast and seem like a blur, I like the moments when the couple is able to slow down, enjoy each other's presence, and unwind a bit.

5. When you're not planning weddings, what’s your favorite way to unwind?

Outside of the wedding world, you'll catch me coaching high school cheerleading, relaxing with some yoga, and having a sweet treat with my cat while bingeing Gilmore Girls for the 100th time. I love connecting with nature, going on hikes, having a bonfire, or just sitting outside (probably on the patio at the vineyard!). I'm also a barista of 10 years, so there's a pretty good chance you'll catch me at a local coffee shop.

6. Favorite cocktail or dish from the Belle Âme kitchen/bar?

Easy! Our Mais Roti Poulette Flatbread and an Espresso Martini please! 

7. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I've been in the wedding industry for 7 years! Most of that time was spent as the co-owner of a wedding planning business. I have a love for weddings and also for entrepreneurship. It has been so wonderful getting to watch and help Sasha grow Belle Âme Vineyard.