Etiquette and
Good Design
Married With
a Checklist

I wear many hats (er bow ties.) I'm a diplomat, designer, advisor, counselor, sounding board, dreamer… The list goes on.

I've dabbled and directed everything from catering sales and management for the Crescent Hotel and Rosewood Mansion, to wedding planning and floral design for Bella Flora of Dallas. And along this 15 year journey here’s what I know is true…

Castello del Nero, Tuscany, Italy - Sara Donaldson Photography

Start Here: Press play on the video
below to get better acquainted.

Film By: Candlelight Films

Four Seasons Lana'i, Lana'i Hawaii - Valorie Darling

THERE'S A RIGHT WAY...

And that way is whatever way makes you most comfortable.

I subscribe to the Platinum Rule of treat others as THEY would like to be treated. And as a Washington School of Protocol-trained expert, I've learned that etiquette is about making others feel comfortable.

That’s why, I'll meet you wherever you are on this planning journey. And we'll walk the path together. With discretion and good judgement.

After all, the way you feel determines how your guests will feel. And I want them to feel fabulous!

GREAT EVENTS CREATE A LITTLE WANDERLUST

I've always had a strong desire to explore the world. To be completely transparent, though, I started actualizing my travel goals during college because doing so provided a form of (healthy) escape from an adolescence marred by trauma. Thankfully, what was intended to be my “disappearing act” actually initiated a journey of healing and self-discovery.

Over time, travel became less about leaving and more about learning. I lived abroad for a time and continue to travel extensively for work and pleasure. And every time I do, I fully embrace the culture, the food, and the customs of the region.

My desire is to bring this sense of curiosity and authenticity to each and every event. To transport guests to an alternate reality. If only for a few hours.

With every event I seek to find the journey we can all go on together.

See The Possibilities

Four Seasons Lana’i, Lana’i, Hawaii - Brandon Kidd Photography

THE BEST JOURNEYS RARELY FOLLOW A STRAIGHT PATH

I've always been a bit obsessed with mazes. I never start at the end. No, I've always been able to see very far down the road. To picture every twist and turn. To see the clarity through the chaos.

Events are a lot like mazes - lots of twists and turns.

The good news is I know exactly what needs to happen, and when, to see that you make it down the aisle with a smile on your face. And I know exactly who to align with in order to bring your vision to life.

A GOOD CHALLENGE OFTEN CREATES SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL

I like people and situations that push the limits. Ones that challenge me to look at the world a little differently or to come at a problem from a new angle.

It's one of the things I love most about events. No two events are alike - and even if they're similar, I challenge myself to make them appear totally different.

When a couple has a certain vision, an idea of creating something for the first time or hosting an event somewhere that's never been done, I love putting those pieces of the puzzle together to create something truly one-of-a-kind and beautiful.