Tell us a bit about you?
I'm originally from northern MN but have fully embraced city living. I'm currently in St. Paul with my boyfriend (he's really my husband but we vowed to always call each other boyfriend and girlfriend!) and my cat Snickers in a lovely home with an amazing backyard oasis. I'm a nurse by background, specializing in emergency nursing. So I'm used to the hustle and bustle of a busy day and having the unexpected thrown at me. When I'm not baking or planning a party you can find me exploring a state park, camping, and traveling. Each time we visit a new state we make a point to visit the state capital. I'm not sure how or why it started but now it's a thing and actually a good way to learn more about that state!
What makes you smile?
Waking up to a gentle rain outside. I just love the sound and smell of fresh rain. And of course my cat Snickers always makes me smile!
What other hobbies do you enjoy?
I love to bake and decorate cakes. I'm also really into exercise - weight lifting and yoga. In the summer you'll find me on a lake stand up paddle-boarding and in the winter I like to downhill ski and snowshoe.
What’s your favorite flower?
Daisy it's so dainty.
What romantic film do you like best?
10 Things I Hate About You. The scene where Heath Ledger sings "Can't take my eyes off you" makes me melt a little each time!!!
What’s a fun fact about you?
I dress up as a giant inflatable T Rex and do random things. As a T Rex, I've ran a 10k (not recommended!), taken a boxing class, decorated cakes, surprised little kids at birthday parties, picked out a wedding dress, and of course taken it with me on my travels. T Rex has it's own Facebook page!
What is something people don’t know about you?
My first vehicle was a suped up old school pick up truck that my dad and I built together. The tires were almost as big as I am! It was like my own monster truck! I still drive a (normal sized) truck today.
What is your favorite love song?
Stuck on You by Meiko
What is your favorite dessert?
Black forest cake! Chocolate and cherries are the perfect combination!!
Favorite quote?
Stay interested, it will make you interesting.
Why did you get into wedding planning?
I have always been a very detailed orientated person and love to have everything organized and tidy. After my own wedding and having worked with a coordinator I realized there are so many things that I'm capable of helping with. I love making things pretty and special for the couple.
What is your favorite part of the wedding day?
My favorite part is after it's all set up and ready. I love seeing the design come together. All those little details!!
Why do you love Rustic Style Weddings?
Rustic style is just simply elegant. I love the natural aspect of it.
Any great stories or moments from past weddings?
At my own wedding, I had taken guests on a train ride, but halfway through I surprised them by having church pews delivered to the middle of the woods where there was a little clearing by the tracks so my guests could get off the train and sit on something while we had a quick train side ceremony. It was such an untraditional wedding, but then out of nowhere there were these beautiful traditional church pews ready for guests.
What tips or advice do you have for couples working on planning their wedding day?
Talk to your vendors. Meet them for coffee and get to know them. Make sure they know your vision and are a good fit for you. On the day of, leave your phones behind and just be present with each other and your guests. And that delicious food you spent time picking out - make sure you take the time to enjoy it!
Best advice for the bride on her big day?
Suck on a mint to ease the knot in your tummy and then just be you and enjoy your day!