About Us

Your Wedding and Event Planner

Where to Start... is a premier San Francisco Bay Area full-service wedding and event planning company. Where to Start brings you the highest quality, professional wedding and event planners, event designers, and event management. Our goal is to help you achieve your goals and dreams, and do it within your budget.

Established in 1991, Where to Start... has coordinated nearly 400 weddings, anniversary parties, birthday galas, and other private and corporate events ranging from relatively simple gatherings to some of the Bay Area's most lavish wedding receptions. We plan and oversee 20-30 events every year, bringing fresh ideas and creativity to every event.

Gwen Helbush, Vice President
Certified Wedding Consultant and Event Planner

Gwen Helbush founded Where to Start after planning her own wedding—and quickly realizing just how difficult and stressful the experience can be for the anxious bride and groom.

A recognized event designer in the field, Gwen has been interviewed by television and print news reporters. Her exceptional events have been cited by publications like San Francisco Bride magazine.

Gwen has managed Where to Start with one basic principle: "Give the client what they want—no matter what." Gwen has done just that, personally managing each event to insure every detail is flawless. This personalized service and attention to detail is what makes her work so rewarding and her client's events special.

Gwen is the proud recipient of the following event industry awards:

• 2005 International Special Events Society Northern California Chapter SPIRIT OF ISES Award
• 2005 International Special Events Society Northern California Chapter PRESIDENT'S CHOICE Award
• 2004 International Special Events Society Western Region Excellence Award for Best Allied or ISES Team Event over $100,000