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The Daily Dish

'The Ring Leader' Shares Her Valentine's Day Advice

Wedding planner Kristin Banta shares her tips for the high pressue holiday.

By Kim Moreau

Need Valentine's Day advice? Why not let the lady who handles the happiest day of most couple's life lay it on you.

Kristin Banta, founder of Kristin Banta Events (and star of the upcoming special The Ring Leader, airing Tuesday, February 14th at 7/6 C) makes a living planning out-of-the-box style ceremonies for celebrities and high profile clients, so she's well-versed in big pressure romance situations -- which is why she recommends keeping it low-key for Valentine's Day.

"With respect to the Valentines' date, it goes without saying that taking him or her to your favorite restaurant is always going to be successful." But if you do want to do something special, it doesn't have to be a hot air balloon rides or expensive dinner. "Planning a private moment in an unexpected place doesn't have to be an extravagant feat. Taking your honey to a hidden urban rooftop with a picnic, or a natural hike ending on a romantic hilltop with champagne and strawberries, are other ways of doing something memorable and economical."

Nothing's more memorable than a proposal, particularly if it goes terribly wrong, which is why Kristin recommends keeping the big question private.

"I think it's risky proposing in the company of others and could rob a couple of having a shared moment that is just their own," Kristin advises. "One of my favorite proposal stories came from a guy who, while at their favorite restaurant, presented his girlfriend with three different trays with cloche covers. Inside each was an object that represented a key moment in their relationship. The first was a succulent, which stood for a cactus garden where they spent time while falling in love; the second was a Sprinkles' cupcake, which they ate on their first date; the third was an engagement ring! So simple yet so perfect."

So if all goes well and you end up engaged by February 15, Kristin recommends strategic spending as you plan your wedding to make the big day super special.

"I suggest splurging on lighting because it affects the way people feel and behave more than any other element at a wedding," Kristin encouraged. "Always make sure that 'creature comforts' are taken care of before considering any other element, because if people are hungry and thirsty, they won't have fun."

True, let the libations (and the eats) flow and you're bound to have a good time (at least that always works in the the Watch What Happens: Live Clubhouse).

Don't miss seeing Kristin in action on Valentine’s Day at 7/6 C (You can watch a sneak peek here)! And check out the Tweet Tracker to see what people are saying about her skills.

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