What is the mission of The Plannery?

Our mission is to help couples get sh*t done. We believe there are no “shoulds”— my team is here to support and nurture each unique client. Our business style is friendly, real, creative, and open-minded, where inspiration is more important than aspiration and where the priority is spending money in a smart and conscious way. We fully support marriage equality, and giddily enjoy planning weddings and other events for everyone.

What is The Plannery's origin story?

I started my business years ago, frustrated by the fact that most planners were seen as pushy, aggressive, intimidating and tied to the latest “trends” and what one “has” to do when getting married. I couldn’t for the life of me figure out how a role that should be grounded, friendly, and supportive had morphed to have such a nightmare reputation. I wanted to change that. I also knew there were people out there who wanted their untraditional choices validated and I wanted to be that support system for them.

What is one of your favorite projects you've ever worked on?

I worked with a couple who had an over 200 person wedding on a local farm. We had a non-traditional structure that I loved - started with some welcome snacks and a pre-ceremony “hang” where the bride and groom sang songs along with the crowd, read poetry, and signed their ketubah. Proceeded to ceremony, followed by cocktails in which people were invited to go play mini golf on the course we’d set up and play other yards games (including touch football). Dinner and dancing, with a massive hora, followed. And the day ended with s’mores by the fire and more guitar playing. It was an excellent mix of some tradition, lots of the couple’s personality, and a relaxed, fun celebration.

How are you a "wedding space disrupter”?

I question and analyze the wedding industry as much as possible — myself included. But most importantly, I support. That’s my job. I support every client and their ideas and wants and needs — I give them real advice but never judge, and provide solid perspective (something sorely lacking in the wedding industry).

When I started The Plannery five years ago, serving everyone — men, women, LGBTQ couples - was my primary mission. I deliberately designed my website to be fun but not overly girly, used inclusive language, and openly championed LGBTQ couples and groom participation. Though we’ve had huge triumphs with marriage equality recently, I still wish more wedding vendors would be enthusiastic, open LGBTQ supporters. And I continue to see lots of bride-focused language and attitudes out there — so I don’t think game has been changed quite yet!

What three ingredients are necessary for a great day at The Plannery?

Clear communication, rad clients, and Google Docs.

What are some traits of your ideal client?

We tend to attract down-to-earth clients who are involved and care about their wedding. I refuse to make decisions for clients - rather I'm here as a resource to help clients make those decisions easily. I love working with people who have nontraditional ideas for their wedding, but realistic expectations.

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