10.03.2020

Today, I have an incredible story to share with you all about my experience as a month-of coordinator for my dear friend, Elizabeth’s wedding. This story is all about how a little bit of luck, a dream team of vendors, and a lot of hard work can make a wedding truly unforgettable.

So, let’s jump back to October 3rd, 2020. Elizabeth had been planning her wedding for what felt like forever, but due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, she had to reschedule her big day several times. That’s where I came in! As a seasoned event planner, I was more than happy to help Elizabeth out by stepping in as her month-of coordinator. And let me tell you, it was an absolute blast!

To start things off, Elizabeth’s florist/designer had some incredible news – the Robertson family (yes, the Duck Dynasty ones) were looking to gift their house as a wedding venue to COVID brides in Louisiana. And guess who was a COVID bride from Louisiana? Elizabeth! So, we quickly got in touch with Sadie and Korie Robertson, and they graciously agreed to let us use their beautiful estate as our wedding venue. Talk about luck!

The month leading up to the wedding was a whirlwind of activity. I hopped on calls with Elizabeth and our dream team of vendors, including the incredibly talented Kayla Hall Photo, to talk through all the logistics of the big day. And let me tell you, we had some truly amazing vendors on board. From Brianna Belton Design setting up the gorgeous tables to the catering and the bar service, everything was top-notch.

The Friday before the wedding, my trusty assistant and bestie, Katie, and I hit the road and headed to Calhoun, Louisiana. Once we arrived, we quickly checked into our hotel and headed over to the Robertson estate to help with the rehearsal. The lawn in front of the house provided a picturesque view as we lined up the wedding party and began rehearsing the processional. Once everyone felt confident, we headed to the barn where the dinner would be held. The tables were set beautifully, and gifts from the couple were placed at every guest’s seat. We confirmed everything was set with catering, assisted with alcohol service, and made sure everyone found their seat.

The following morning was an early one for us, but we were ready to go. We arrived at the venue at 7:30 AM and helped set up the bridal suite in the front room. Fun fact: Sadie and Christian were actually living in this house when the wedding was held! While my assistant and I coordinated with vendors and ensured everything was set up according to plan, we also made sure the groomsmen arrived on time and in decent condition.

At around 4 PM, we facilitated Elizabeth and Adam’s first look and then lined up the party for the ceremony overlooking the beautiful pond at golden hour. The walk from the house to the ceremony was long, so timing was everything. Once the ceremony was over, guests headed to the back of the house, where the tented outdoor reception was being held. While the bride and groom took their sunset photos, I facilitated the food service and made sure they had their favorite beverages in a private room before their entrance.

Once the entrance happened, toasts were made, the cake was cut, and it was time to party! We had yard games, petting farm animals, and sweet treats to keep everyone entertained. When the dancing started to slow down, we set up the getaway car and the sparklers for the exit. We lit them up and sent off the happy couple!

Overall, it was an incredible experience, and I feel so lucky to have been a part of it.

Venue – Willie and Korie’s Farm, Korie Robertson @bosshogswife

Florals, Styling, & Catering – Brianna Belton Designs @briannabeltondesign

Photobooth: Sarah Jeffords @bashbooth

Photography – Kayla Hall Photography @kaylahallphotography

Videography – Glass Chapel Motion @glasschapelmotion

Hair & Makeup – Grace Coyer Trahan

DJ – HollyTrees Weddings & Events @hollytreesweddingsandevents

Cake – Uptown Down @udruston

Dress – A & Be Bridal Shop Dallas @aandbe_bridalshop

Explore Elements: @exploreelements