How did you get into event planning?
I first fell in love with weddings while working as a writer for a bridal magazine and bridal show producer, right out of college. After a few years, I knew that I couldn’t sit behind a desk and stare at pretty weddings anymore, I needed to be a part of creating them!
Ashley Dahl Photography
What are the three things every event planner must carry on her at all times?
It’s so tough to narrow it down! I’d say a cell phone, planning clipboard, and safety pins.
What’s been your favorite experience as an event planner?
Getting featured by publications I admire is always surreal!
What do you love most about planning events?
The kind words that pour in from my clients and their loved ones. It’s such an honor that I get to assist people with one of the biggest days of their lives!
Where is the most interesting place you’ve planned an event?
I’m planning my own wedding at a beautiful mansion on the campus of a community college (this June!). It’s such a beautiful home with a ton of history. For me, that’s been my personal favorite.
What are the skills you use for event planning that you’ve used for planning your own wedding?
You know, it’s interesting… I thought being a wedding planner would make planning my own wedding easier but it’s actually been more challenging! I think there’s some pressure to create this over-the-top event because people expect it from me as a planner. Plus, it’s difficult to distance yourself from some of the more emotional decisions (i.e. guest list!) when it’s your own family and budget in front of you.
How do you manage the stress of event planning?
The best piece of advice I can give to new planners? Put a smile on your face and be the most confident person in the room, even if you’re feeling the stress internally. I’ve been fortunate enough to have a great support system around me. My partner, friends, and family are all so incredibly supportive. My fiance and friends have directly helped me as assistants on wedding days, and I’ve had friends send me the most encouraging messages on big planning days. It’s the fuel I need to keep me going!
What piece of advice would you give brides and grooms to ensure they find a wedding (or event) planner who will ensure their big day goes off without a hitch?
Listen to your gut. You want your planner to be someone who you match with personality-wise because you’ll be spending so much time with them leading up to and on the wedding day. Additionally, you want someone with experience and the know-how to produce an amazing event. Seek that friendly match whom you trust, and you will be in good hands!
What are some of your favorite wedding staples?
A beautiful custom invitation, late night snacks & alternative desserts.
How do you think an app like Joy can help make weddings better?
Joy is such a wonderful platform for communicating details to your guests, which is incredibly important in setting the stage for the day. I’ve seen a number of similar resources, but I find Joy to be a step above in serving up both stunning design and function! Not only is it simple for guests to consult, but it also makes life easier for couples by providing additional features such as RSVP tracking, sending of announcements, and ordering prints.
White Quill Creative
At Joy we believe that even though a wedding lasts a day, joy should last forever. What does that mean to you?
I couldn’t agree more with this statement! Your wedding, though an important day and beautiful celebration of your love, is just that – one day. When all is said and done and the uplighting has been turned off, what you have left is you, your fiance and the support of your surrounding loved ones. The wedding is the fun part. The easy part, right? Yet, years of marriage takes commitment and the choosing of your partner, every day, despite what life sends your way. There’s something so beautiful in that.
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