READING TIME: 4 min 11 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 01/02/2026
UPDATED: 01/02/2026
Some wedding planners are inspired by trends, aesthetics, or the thrill of production. Others are guided by something quieter — something deeply human. For Petra Starbek, founder of Lake Bled Weddings, everything begins with love.
Not the cinematic kind, though many assume her story started with The Wedding Planner movie. Petra’s inspiration reaches further back — into childhood memories, the warmth of hospitality, and the simple yet powerful act of making people feel cared for.
“My father worked in a restaurant, and from a young age, I was surrounded by hospitality and the importance of making people feel welcome.”
That early exposure shaped more than her career — it shaped her instinct. Weddings, for Petra, are not just events or timelines. They are emotional beginnings. The first chapter of a lifelong story.
“There is nothing more beautiful than witnessing genuine connection, emotion, and love in its purest form. Being trusted to help shape that beginning is what inspires me every single day.”
When asked what she loves most about her work, Petra doesn’t speak first about design or logistics — she speaks about shared excitement.
“There is something incredibly special about the journey we go through together — from the first ideas to the final moments of the wedding day.”
For her, fulfillment comes from translating her couples’ wishes into something they can truly feel. The quiet moments. The unexpected ones. The emotions that can’t be scripted.
“Ending the day with my couples relaxed, present, and genuinely happy is the greatest reward.”
Petra has been part of the wedding industry since 2006 and founded her planning agency in May 2008. What began as a passion has grown into a lifelong commitment to thoughtful, intentional celebrations.
Over the years, one thing became clear: her best work happens when she is fully involved.
“I offer full planning only. I work in a truly bespoke way, always adapting to my couple’s needs.”
By taking care of everything from start to finish, Petra builds deep trust — not only with her couples, but with their families as well.
My approach is deeply personal. I value trust, intention, and genuine connection just as much as design and logistics.
Alongside full wedding planning, Petra also curates complete wedding weekends and personalized experiences throughout Slovenia.
“My goal is to create a seamless experience — not just for the wedding day, but for the entire stay.”
From welcome moments to farewell experiences, every detail is designed so couples and their guests can fully relax and be present.
While Petra works across Slovenia, there is one place that remains especially close to her heart.
“I especially love working around Lake Bled. It’s timeless, romantic, and naturally emotional.”
With its still waters and dramatic scenery, Lake Bled offers more than a backdrop — it creates atmosphere, emotion, and meaning.
Petra’s guidance for couples is always grounded in clarity and trust.
When it comes to contracts, her advice is simple but essential:
Always read contracts carefully and make sure you understand every detail before signing. Clarity creates trust, and trust creates peace of mind.
For weather backup plans, she encourages couples to fall in love with Plan B as much as Plan A.
“A backup plan should never feel like a second choice. It should be just as beautiful and intentional.”
Sometimes, she says, even postponing a symbolic ceremony to the following day can become the best decision — when planned thoughtfully in advance.
One of the biggest challenges Petra encounters is helping couples truly understand the importance of guest capacity, Plan B scenarios, and trusting their vendors.
“Guest limits exist for a reason. Exceeding them can mean losing a dance floor or compromising the overall experience.”
Trusting professionals, she believes, allows everyone to do their best work — and protects the integrity of the celebration.
Petra works with couples across a wide range of budgets, and her experience has taught her one key lesson:
“More money does not automatically mean less stress.”
What matters most is structure and priorities — knowing where to invest emotionally and where simplicity brings balance.
Her approach to timelines follows the same philosophy.
“A well-designed timeline should feel natural, not rushed.”
She encourages couples to enjoy breakfast, allow space for conversations, and plan logistics realistically — especially when moving large groups.
“Weddings are meant to be lived, not rushed.”
If Petra could offer one piece of advice to couples currently planning their wedding, it would be this: enjoy the process and communicate openly.
“We planners can only create what you truly want when you share your wishes with us.”
She also strongly encourages booking vendors you truly love — especially videography.
“If you’re not 100% sure you want no video, then book it.”
One wedding, in particular, remains unforgettable: during the ceremony, the couple’s four-year-old son answered “YES” out loud — a spontaneous moment captured beautifully on both photo and video.
“It’s hard to imagine that memory living only in a photograph.”
Petra also emphasizes the value of an experienced local planner — someone who knows the venues, the people, and exactly who to call when something unexpected happens.
“That local knowledge can truly save a wedding.”
As the interview comes to a close, it becomes clear that Petra’s role often extends beyond planning.
I often become more than just a planner — I become a trusted partner and, very naturally, a friend.
She approaches every wedding with full dedication and responsibility, caring for it as if it were her own.
“When it’s all over, there’s always a little sadness — but also deep happiness knowing I was part of such a meaningful chapter.”
Her couples often ask how she knows exactly when they need support.
“I don’t always have a clear answer — I simply feel it.”
That intuition, shaped by years of experience and deep listening, is what defines her work.
“I don’t just plan weddings — I genuinely love what I do. And that love is something my couples feel from the very beginning.”
