I have now entered the world of Skype, which gives me another communication option for my clients.  If you're not familiar with Skype, it gives you a way to make calls through your computer using a microphone and/or webcam.  You may have seen it used a lot on Oprah but what you may not know is how easy and inexpensive it is to use.

 

It's free to sign up and it only takes a couple minutes to download the program - just go to www.skype.com for the information.   Once you're signed up, all Skype to Skype calls are free - you can use Skype to call any other Skype user at no cost.

 

I bought a webcam for about $35 but a camera is not required - you can just use a microphone if you want.  The webcam program was easy to load and the camera simply plugs into the USB port.

 

Although basic Skype use is free, there are a few options that cost money.  Voicemail, for example, is $2 per month.  You can also arrange to call landlines and mobile phones, but there is a small monthly fee for that as well.

 

The reason I signed up for Skype is to give my clients another communication option - they still have the option to talk by phone, exchange emails, or meet in person.  But, this is a way to meet "in person" without having to drive somewhere.  The reason I am explaining this is because using Skype could be a real time saver during your wedding planning - I'm not sure which other wedding vendors use it, but I know there are others that do.  It will also save you money on phonecalls if you are planning your event from out of town.  I'm also explaining it because I was amazed at how easy and inexpensive it is to use it - if you were unaware of Skype or didn't know the benefits until now, I hope you will check it out. If you do sign up for it, my Skype name is easy to remember - marskemusic.com.  Of course you can still call or email me but I'm available on Skype too.

 

Kirk