It's been six years since I first became apart of this team of ladies. I was new to the emerald city and Lori reached out to me. She asked me to help her at the Seattle Wedding Show and I decided- why not! I had no clue what the wedding industry was like in Seattle. Quite honestly, I didn't even know it had existed. I went to school to be a teacher and I had no idea that this path was even here for me. It was sparkling new and I was definitely intrigued. In 2011, I worked my first wedding with Lori. From that moment on, I fell in love.
I worked as an intern, helping Lori with her team. During events we would handle the decor, passing out programs, assisting guests, and even some good ole fashioned manual labor. I quickly realized that this was something I wanted to pursue. I became an assistant and then Lori offered me a position as a wedding planner.
I fell in love with the fast paced adventure of coordinating a day, that was so special. Our couples trust us with their big day and I learned that we will do anything in our power to make it happen, perfectly. I learned how to be a quick thinker, organize every detail of the day-- even down to who gets the left over cake. I managed a staff, created decor, arranged flowers, and so much more! I never realized that I had a passion for wedding and event planning until Lori came to me with this grand opportunity. It sparked a light in me I didn't know I had.
One of my favorite wedding highlights was assisting a wedding with Lori at Salish Lodge. It was for a lovely couple who even brought their dogs and released doves. DOVES! Did I mention they had the UW acapella singers come and it was brunch?! Or the time that it was pouring down rain at Chambers Bay, and the interns and I had to wear trash bags to get chairs brought inside so guests could sit for dinner? Talk about dedication! I'll also never forget the wedding at Annie Wright, where Mandi Jo and I put together about 30 floral arrangements in an hour. But, my all time favorite moment would have to be at Port Gamble after the couples say "I do." They get to ring the bell in the steeple to celebrate their nuptials. I can't tell you how many times I've teared up or had goose bumps from those bells!
Today I head out to Ellensburg for my final wedding with Elegant Affairs. I will turn in my emergency kit and say my goodbyes to a business that I hold so near and dear to my heart. I feel very blessed to say that for the past six years, I've made so many beautiful memories with clients, vendors, and EA staff. I've worked with my best friends and we will have memories of our best and hardest moments. I thank Elegant Affairs, our clients, vendors, and staff for walking this journey with me. Texas may be my new home for now, but I'm definitely leaving a huge piece of my heart here with you lovely ladies. Thank you for the smiles, laughs, and memories.
Cheers,
XO
Rachel
