We are excited for you to learn all about one of our dear partners, Alexandria at Alexandria Elaine Events, a Sacramento-based wedding planner that is brimming with passion and quality services. Keep scrolling to learn all about Alexandria and her business!
When did you establish your business?
2019.
Tell us a little about your business.
I am a Sacramento-based Wedding Planner who offers boutique wedding planning and styling services in California.
What made you start your business?
Growing up, I loved seeing how events could bring people together. And for me, a wedding is one of the happiest reasons for people to come together! I love the creativity of bringing a vision to life, and I love celebrating couples and their love.
How has your business evolved since you first started?
I first started in 2019 offering only day-of coordination and not knowing very many wedding pros in this area. Since then, I have met hundreds of wedding pros (and befriended many of them), done many more weddings – both coordination and planning, participated in many vendor collaborations, styled shoots, and open houses; and I have branched out into styling and design, with two of my photo shoots getting featured (both online and in print). Despite starting my business right before a global pandemic, it has come so far in the last few years and I am overflowing with pride at how it’s grown.
What sets you apart from your competition?
Weddings are not a one-size-fits all, so neither are my packages! As a boutique planner, I offer curated packages designed to fit each of my clients’ unique needs. My specialty is modern and elegant weddings which also sets me apart in this area.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Knowing that I was able to help couples have a memorable day. I love all of the lovey-dovey moments between couples on their wedding day: the vows, the first look, the first dance, etc. After working closely with my couples, I really get to know them and understand the things that are really meaningful to them, so when those things occur at the wedding (for instance, an unexpected father/daughter dance, a certain family member showing up to the wedding, a certain phrase/element incorporated), I can’t help but love my job.
Where do you find inspiration?
Everywhere! I find inspiration from fashion, celebrity weddings, interior design, and the couples themselves!
Any trends you’re hoping make a comeback? Or don’t make a comeback?
I’m hoping that the burlap and lace trend is out.
Anything you’re dying to see a couple do, but haven’t?
I’m dying for a couple who wants to completely transform an unexpected place (like a parking garage or rooftop) into a beautiful reception area, or something that looks completely different.
Can you share a funny/embarrassing/touching story with one of your clients?
I had a client who wasn’t sure if her father would attend her wedding because of his strong religious beliefs. If he did attend the wedding, she informed me that she was not sure if he would participate in the father/daughter dance so it was a call that was going to be made very last minute. Well, he did show up and the anticipation built as the father/daughter dance approached. Her father ended up standing up to dance with her and I cried such happy tears that I had to turn around. I think there were a lot of tears in the audience knowing how much that meant to her.
What is the most outrageous thing you’ve ever seen at a wedding?
Most of the wedding guests leaving early so the bride and groom tried to rush through the last timeline items of the night so guests could be there to see it. I was so upset for the bride and groom.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
When vendors aren’t professional
What’s your favorite comment/compliment that one of your clients has given you/your business?
That they think of me as not just a coordinator, but a friend too.
When you were a little kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A lawyer… but after trying mock trial in high school I realized I could not be that serious all of the time. Weddings are much more fun.
What was your first job and what experience did you gain from it?
I worked at Fosters Freeze. It taught me the importance of being part of a team and working well with your team to get tasks done in a timely manner. I also learned to manage my time a lot better.
Who has been your biggest inspiration personally and professionally?
My parents. Both have worked really hard to follow their passions and I just want to make them proud.
What is your favorite fun thing to do locally?
Hiking, finding fun new restaurants, and wine tasting.
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
Leatherby’s.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I’m a pretty good baker.
Do you have a signature drink? If so, what is it?
Definitely champagne!
How did you meet your significant other?
It’s actually a pretty cute story. My dad ran for political office in 2016 and Kyle (my husband now) was the campaign manager. I interned for the campaign during the summer and we both got to know each other and really fell for each other. After the campaign, Kyle moved to California permanently and we started dating.
If you were to plan your own wedding, or re-do your wedding, what element(s) would be most important to you?
I would have spent more money on florals for sure.
What advice would you can give to soon-to-be-married couples?
It’s your special day. Don’t lose sight of that. Amidst the chaos of planning and societal expectations, it can be easy to forget that you and your partners wants/needs should come first.
Check back in the coming weeks to learn more about Alexandria!
But in the meantime, for more information about Alexandria / Alexandria Elaine Events, visit her website, alexandriaelaineevents.com, and follow her on socials @alexandriaelaine_events (IG) and @alexandriaelaineevents (FB)
Tune in for more business spotlights in our Partner Profiles series!
Photos 1-9 courtesy of Courtland Photography LLC, Photos of Alexandria, courtesy of Image Society Sacramento, Photos at Scribner Bend, courtesy of Rachel & Mark Photography & Films, Photos of our Winter cover shoot, courtesy of The Freckled Photographer.
