READING TIME: 3 min 36 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/21/2025
UPDATED: 05/21/2025
Some love stories begin with serendipity. Others begin with a spreadsheet.
For the founder of Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events, the journey into wedding planning wasn’t born from a textbook—but from lived experience. “My journey began in 2006, shortly after my wedding. Despite my father’s suggestion to hire a wedding planner, I chose to plan the event myself,” she shares. “I faced challenges in achieving my vision, particularly with vendors, due to my lack of experience and knowledge in the industry. That lit a fire in me.”
A fire that’s still burning nearly two decades later.
Her desire to become a trusted advocate for couples quickly turned into a full-fledged career. “The first wedding I coordinated was on a modest budget, yet the couple appreciated the dedication I put into every detail and graciously rewarded me with a generous gratuity. That experience sealed the deal.”
What started as a solo mission has since blossomed into a full-scale planning team—complete with talented associates and a dedicated lead designer crafting one-of-a-kind luxury weddings across the DMV and beyond.
When asked what fuels her love for wedding planning, the answer is simple: “We have a passion for details and design, but what truly makes our work meaningful is the heartfelt thank-yous from our clients and their families—those moments are priceless.”
Each wedding is an opportunity not just to create something beautiful—but to deliver peace of mind. “Being part of such a special day is an honor we cherish deeply.”
Unlike planners with a signature aesthetic, Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events thrives on variety. “We don’t stick to just one design style—we thrive on creativity and love being challenged by our clients’ unique visions.”
Their ability to bring even the most whimsical dreams to life is unmatched. One standout? “One couple, inspired by the long tables in Harry Potter, envisioned a grand feast. We brought their dream to life with H + J’s Harry Potter Summer Soirée.”
Another client dreamt of an immersive seven-course dinner with mood shifts between each course. “Each course featured a different lighting scheme and music theme, creating an unforgettable experience,” she recalls. “No matter the inspiration, we’re all about turning ideas into extraordinary celebrations!”
With nearly two decades of experience, Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events offers both package-based and custom services. From Full and Partial Planning to multi-day luxury productions, there’s flexibility in every offering.
“We begin with a detailed discovery call and a budget meeting to set the tone for the year ahead,” she explains. “Understanding that most couples haven’t planned an event of this scale before, we approach the process with patience, answering every question and keeping everything organized.”
Their goal? A planning process that’s not just efficient, but enjoyable.
Budgeting is a key piece of the puzzle. “For our Full Planning clients, we establish a detailed budget for each vendor category and track payments throughout,” she shares. “While it’s always exciting when we come in under budget, more often than not, couples choose to splurge just a little to bring their vision to life—and we’re here to help them make those decisions wisely!”
Her best advice? “Set your budget and map out a plan for the year or so of planning. It should be fun, so don’t try to book everything at once!”
With 19 years in the industry, choosing a favorite event isn’t easy—but one wedding still stands out.
“Nikia and James’ celebration at Goodstone Inn was truly unforgettable,” she reflects. “Their wedding weekend blended cultures and styles seamlessly—from a vibrant Indian celebration to an Ibiza-themed pool party in the afternoon, followed by a traditional Western ceremony the next day.”
The details were equally as stunning as the storyline. “The bride wore a blue Oscar de la Renta dress that took our breath away.”
While the team works across a range of locations, they’ve developed deep connections with venues like River Farm, Tranquility Farm, Shadow Creek, National Cathedral, National Portrait Gallery, Anderson House, Spy Museum, and Perry Belmont House.
Still, the journey hasn’t been without hurdles. “One of the biggest challenges is when a client keeps changing their mind or struggles to make decisions as the wedding day approaches,” she explains. “Last-minute changes leave less time for the vendor team to finalize details. Clear decisions and timely communication are key.”
And when it comes to her dream venue? She doesn’t hesitate: “Lowndes Grove in Charleston, SC. We’re actually there in Spring of 2026 and it’s stunning! We love working at new venues all over the DMV too!”
To those just starting out in the wedding industry, she offers this gold nugget: “Make sure to get reviews or testimonials from your first few clients! And network as much as possible. Your personality will sell you before you can sell your experience and expertise.”
Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events is more than a planning company—it’s a trusted partner, a creative powerhouse, and a calming force during one of life’s biggest transitions.
Driven by a personal mission and nearly two decades of experience, this team doesn’t just plan events—they craft unforgettable chapters in their clients’ love stories.
