We are so blessed to have amazingly talented wedding pros as our partners, and Kristina from Events by Kristina Elyse is no exception. This talented gal handles everything behind-the-scenes of weddings and events: planning, design, coordination and more. We’re happy to introduce you to her!
Events by Kristina Elyse
Tell us about your company.
Events by Kristina Elyse (EBKE) is a full-service event planning and design company. Kristina’s passion is to create a classic and timeless event that brings her client’s unique vision to life.
When did you establish your business?
2016
From our “Honey Bee Good” photo shoot. See more here! Photos by Hawk Meadow Studio.
What sets you apart from your competition?
I think each planner has their own personality and style. It really comes down to the planner/client relationship. The chemistry has to be right. There are so many talented planners in this area and I admire them so much.
What trend do you see coming for weddings this year and beyond?
Destination elopements and the minimal look.
Liz Zimbelman Photography
Can you share a touching or memorable moment about one of your clients?
One of my brides recently called me out as a “queen” on Instagram and it was so flattering to know how much she admires and trusts me with her wedding. The trust she has in my ability as her planner is such a humbling and special experience.
What’s your favorite compliment that one of your clients has given you?
I think whenever I hear “You lifted the weight off my shoulders,” or “You’re a lifesaver,” or anything to that effect is so nice to hear. I truly do what I do because I enjoy helping others and making their planning experience fun so when I get feedback that confirms my actions it always warms my heart. I don’t really have a favorite review, they’ve all been so kind I can’t pick one.
Kelly Marie Photography
What is your favorite fun thing to do locally?
Wine tasting and eating out with friends. I love going to Napa/Calistoga any chance I get, but locally Amador/Plymouth is so much fun.
What’s your favorite local charity?
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
Paragary’s Midtown. It’s mine and my husband’s date night hot spot.
Do you have a secret vice or indulgence? What is it?
Chips and any kind of dip; I love all things crunchy!
Do you have any hidden talents?
I’m not sure if it’s a talent, but I’ve been named the family sommelier. If anyone needs a recommendation they usually reach out. I worked in Calistoga as a wine tasting server for a year and fell in love with the whole wine making process. I’d love to get one or two pins as a professional sommelier one day.
Eugene Davidyuk Photography
If you weren’t a planner, what other profession would you have liked to have done?
Broadway. I used to act and dance in middle school through college and LOVED it, but if you don’t keep up with the skill it diminishes. I let it go after I graduated and fell into the corporate world, but one day I’d like to think I could get back into it, even in a small way. My husband is a vocal coach so he’s always encouraging me to get out there and do what I love. If I do I will at least have my vocal coach in place.
If you were to plan your own wedding, what would be most important to you?
The most important detail would have to be the day-of signage and paperie.
Green Vintage Photography
What advice would you can give to soon-to-be-married couples?
Attend weekly pre-marital counseling leading up to and even after the wedding. I cannot express how much it helped my husband and I. You really are able to dig deep into who the person is and learn about what they need and want out of a relationship. Tying yourself to one person for the rest of your life is no joke. You should know 100% what you’re choosing to do. It’s like doing anything important. You, hopefully, do your research and decide if it’s right. Working on communication skills and practices, going over core beliefs, being on the same page and working through those uncomfortable discussions is honestly priceless, and so important to the relationship. The way we tackle life’s hurdles together is a testament to all the work we did and continue to do in counseling sessions. We are in NO WAY perfect at it by any means, but communication is a skill and without practice it isn’t executed properly, and that’s when relationships end. The wedding day is of course very important and is what I focus on as a planner, but when that day is over you’re just left with each other, so I think that is what should be worked on more than anything.
Liz Zimbleman Photography
For more information about Events by Kristina Elyse, visit EventsByKristinaElyse.com and follow her on social @eventsbykristinaelyse
Tune in for more business spotlights in our Partner Profiles series!
Photos courtesy of Events by Kristina Elyse; Headshot by Dee & Kris Photography.
