The Association of Bridal Consultants Mourns the Passing of Industry Pioneer and Co-Founder Eileen P. Monaghan
Gibsonville, NC — The Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) deeply mourns the loss of its trailblazing co-founder, Eileen P. Monaghan, who passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at Danbury Hospital after a brief illness. Eileen was 80 years old.
A true pioneer in the wedding industry, Eileen leaves behind a legacy that has shaped the professional path for thousands of wedding planners worldwide. In 1981, she and her husband, Gerard Monaghan, took over a struggling organization with a vision to bring structure, education, and recognition to the wedding and event planning profession. Together, they grew ABC from one member to nearly 5,000 members across 32 countries, making it the oldest and largest professional organization for wedding consultants in the world.
Eileen not only created a global community—she professionalized an industry. She was the founder of the Certified Wedding Planner program, now one of the most widely recognized certifications in the wedding world. She developed a clear designation system—including Professional Bridal Consultant, Accredited Bridal Consultant, Certified Wedding Planner, and Master Wedding Planner—to help professionals grow through continuing education, experience, and service. These levels remain the gold standard for excellence in the field.
Her commitment to education went far beyond titles. Eileen believed in the power of mentorship, ethics, and hands-on training. She and Gerard traveled across all 50 U.S. states, most Canadian provinces, and 13 countries, teaching wedding planning seminars and spreading the message that wedding planners are vital professionals who deserve structure, community, and career advancement.
“Eileen’s vision changed everything,” said Veronica M. Foster, MWP, current President and Owner of ABC. “She transformed wedding planning from a passion into a profession. Her impact continues to resonate through the careers of thousands of planners around the world—and we are honored to carry her legacy forward.”
Under Eileen’s guidance, ABC forged global relationships and opened doors for its members. Today, ABC continues to build on her foundation with partnerships including Sandals and Beaches Resorts, offering members exclusive educational certifications and commissions for on-site destination wedding experiences. These initiatives, inspired by Eileen’s belief in accessible and immersive learning, keep ABC members at the forefront of the evolving wedding industry.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Eileen was a dedicated civic leader, educator, and humanitarian. Born on February 14, 1945, in Bayside, NY, she held degrees from St. John’s University and Western Connecticut State College and began her career as an elementary school teacher. She later brought her passion for teaching into the wedding industry, where she educated, mentored, and empowered generations of planners.
She lived in New Milford, Connecticut since 1968 and was actively involved in her community, serving on the local Board of Education and Library Board of Trustees, and volunteering for organizations like FISH, the New Milford Garden Club, and Camp Jonathan. Her compassion extended to opening her home to an Afghan refugee family for over 15 months.
Eileen is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Gerard; her children Edward, Doris, Brenna, and Sean; and her nine beloved grandchildren. She will be remembered not only as a leader, teacher, and innovator—but as a woman of deep integrity, warmth, and vision.
A Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church in New Milford, CT. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hour Children or to the planting of a tree in Eileen’s memory.
About the Association of Bridal Consultants
Founded in 1981 by Eileen and Gerard Monaghan, the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) is the premier organization for wedding professionals worldwide. ABC offers education, certification, networking, and support for wedding and event planners across more than 30 countries. The association continues to innovate through global partnerships, including its exclusive travel certification programs, and ongoing initiatives to elevate the wedding industry.
