The Central Minnesota Wedding Association is a valuable asset to me as a wedding professional.

One of the highlights of my job as a solo musician is getting to meet with my engaged couples to plan their music. It puts me directly in touch with their wedding needs and wishes. I absolutely love getting to know them! On the day of their wedding I feel a wonderful connection to them and the special moments that their wedding day represents.

Even though I have this wonderful connection with my wedding couples, as a solo musician I miss the comradeship that those in traditional professional roles enjoy. This has led me to reach out to other professionals in the wedding business.

Being a member at Central MN Wedding Association has been fun, insightful and educational. Members of CMWA are accepted based on their business integrity, professionalism and commitment to excellence. At our meetings I have had the opportunity to get to know some of the best in the wedding profession! 

My favorite meeting of the year is the Wedding Panel where newlywed couples share their insights with members of the CMWA. The couples share what went wrong and what went right with their weddings and how their wedding professionals contributed to their wedding experiences. I always come away from this meeting with inspirational ideas on how to improve my services!

I am very proud of our Code of Ethics that each member pledges to follow.

Watch the video below to view first hand how CMWA has helped myself and others in our professional lives.

I am happy to have found a wonderful balance between my solo piano performances, interaction with my wedding couples, and networking with other wedding professionals!

MN Bride Magazine's 'Best of 2015' party was in full swing on Weds., July 15, at the stunning A'BULAE event venue in Lowertown St. Paul.

I was excited to attend as a Finalist for Best Ceremony Music. When the announcer said, "The winner for Best Ceremony Music for 2015 is Sharon Planer, Pianist for Parties", I was so excited and hurried right up to the stage to receive my award!

 I am humbled and grateful to all the brides, grooms, event professionals and others for nominating me as a finalist for the MN Bride Magazine 'Best of 2015' Ceremony Music. Your voices were heard!

There are many wonderful wedding musicians in the Twin Cities including the other two finalists the Four Voices String Quartet and the Lake Minnetonka String Quartet.

Engaged couples in Minnesota have great options for finding quality wedding professionals. A good place to start your search is at the Minnesota Bride Magazine Best of 2015!

Remember to pick up a copy of MInnesota Bride Magazine at your local newsstand or call 1-800-637-0334 for great planning tips and real wedding stories.