How I Got Started:
My journey as a Wedding Planner began in 1998 when I was a junior in college at the University of Washington in Seattle (Go Dawgs!). I took an Entrepreneur class and our professor taught us how to write a business plan, and we could choose any business – so I decided that focusing on Wedding Planning would be super fun! Writing that business plan was truly the first step that sparked my journey that lead me where I am today! After I graduated, I went into the Human Resources field and worked for a variety of companies including Starbucks and Accenture. While I loved HR, I knew that someday I definitely wanted to pursue Wedding Planning as a career. So, I took on a part-time job at my church in Seattle (First Presbyterian) as a Day-Of Coordinator – I discovered that I loved working with brides, so I started a Company on the side while I still had my full-time job. I was eventually blessed to be able to take my Company full-time and pursue my dream of being a true entrepreneur – thus, Sweet Pea Events was born! In 2008, my family and I moved to Dallas to take on a new adventure, so now my talented business partner, Sarah Gai, manages our Seattle office.
Favorite Part About Weddings:
This is always a tough question for me to answer because there are so many favorite elements about a wedding day. If I had to narrow it down, I absolutely love the ceremony because to me, the symbolism of marriage is so special and is really what the wedding is all about! I just love watching the groom see his bride for the first time! I also have so much fun watching the bride and groom’s eyes light up as I show them their reception venue for the first time, all decorated how they envisioned – it’s so fun to see all of their plans come together and watch how their wedding design has come to life!
My Personal Faves:
Grande Iced Americano with 1 ½ pumps white chocolate (YUM), my sweet son Carson and my best friend and hubby Chris, my incredible friends and family who encourage me every day, my church, dark chocolate, yoga, travel, and wine.
Contact Kelly! – kelly@sweetpeaevents.net
