make every day worth celebrating
Meet Ashley
Owner & Event Planner
Background
I have had a passion for event planning for as long as I can remember. I started working in hospitality in 2012, and have been living and breathing the business ever since. I grew up in a Chesapeake, Virginia, and moved to the DC area to study marketing, tourism, and events management at George Mason University. While at Mason, I had an opportunity to work for Victoria's Secret PINK's corporate office, as well as local event planning companies. My career has included roles in sports management, event production, hotel management, and meeting planning. But my heart and soul are in special events. There's no greater feeling than standing in a room full of people celebrating, dancing, laughing; creating core memories together, knowing I played a part in giving them that experience.
Approach
A great event requires careful attention to both logistics and design. It's not just about juggling vendors and making a detailed schedule. Everything from the centerpieces and chairs, to the signage and lighting make a massive impact on the space. The logistics make the event run smoothly, and the design makes it look incredible.
But a great event planner requires building a strong relationship with each and every client. I begin the process the same each time: meeting face to face with the client and guest(s) of honor . Yes, that means for every b'nai mitzvah, I meet with the parents AND their child before I start planning anything. This allows me to really get to know my clients, learn their likes and dislikes, begin to understand the family dynamic, and gives me the opportunity to brainstorm ideas and see what sparks joy. I've never been a great rule follower. I don't believe that just because every other wedding, mitzvah, birthday party, etc. has something, means that you must have it. Events are meant to be unique to the individual(s) we're celebrating. If you're thinking "I want to do this thing I've never seen done before, but I don't even know where to begin", step one is to send me a message. Let's find a way to bring that crazy idea of yours to life!
Planning a milestone event is stressful and (let's be honest) not cheap. Finding a planner that meshes with your personality and can see your vision is so important. You're going to get comfortable (sometimes very comfortable) with your planner. Make sure it's someone you feel confident and comfortable with.
Quick Facts
My friends & family would describe me as
Elle Woods (minus the law degree)
My loves
my cat Lilly, coffee, shopping, & traveling
My less-than-loves
early mornings, an overcooked steak, & dishes in the sink
A fun fact (we all gotta have one handy, right?)
I am a published children's author!