READING TIME: 3 min 52 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 11/14/2024
UPDATED: 11/14/2024
Stepping into the world of Amanda Marie & Co is like stepping into a dream crafted with timeless elegance and European charm. Amanda, the visionary behind the company, has built her reputation on her ability to create weddings that honor the essence of both the space and the couple. With over a decade of experience, she’s honed a style that feels effortlessly refined yet deeply personal. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Amanda to learn more about her journey, her philosophy, and her unique approach to wedding planning.
Amanda’s path into wedding planning started in 2013, but it wasn’t the most conventional beginning. “I started in the wedding industry in 2013, managing the catering division for a fine dining restaurant in California,” she reflects. What began as managing logistics soon turned into orchestrating entire wedding days. “I stepped into the role as a wedding planner for one of these weddings, and it had an impact on me. It was extremely challenging but very rewarding.” The ability to “shape the flow of an event” sparked a passion, and Amanda soon realized she had found her calling.
From day one, Amanda’s approach has been about honoring authenticity and creating a sense of intimacy. “Crafting warm and inviting atmospheres, allowing gracious hosts to connect more deeply with their friends and family est 2013. My wedding design is Timeless European inspired.,” she shares. It’s an approach that doesn’t merely focus on aesthetics but creates an experience. Her designs are inspired by “timeless European aesthetics,” blending elegance with a sense of familiarity and warmth.
Amanda describes her style as “a distinctive style that effortlessly blends timeless elegance with European character,” drawing inspiration from the venue’s history and surroundings. “You won’t find me designing a clean modern look in a space that has rustic character. It’s thrilling to start the design this way and then bring in those important little elements that matter most to the couple.”
Amanda Marie & Co offers Full-Service Planning & Design, whether for a single-day or a multi-day celebration. Her services are crafted to ensure that each couple’s wedding feels deeply personal. Their goal is to make sure each couple’s experience feels tailored to them. She believes that every couple deserves a unique experience, which is why she often customizes packages to suit their specific needs and preferences.
The journey begins with an extensive period of getting to know each client. “Each client is very different, so I take great care over several months to understand who they are as people—and only then do I begin to design their wedding day.” This thoughtful, personal approach ensures that the final celebration feels like a natural extension of the couple themselves.
One of Amanda’s most memorable weddings took place at a venue that holds a special place in her heart: “One of my most memorable weddings was the wedding that took place at San Ysidro Ranch.” The inspiration for the wedding came from the venue’s beautiful gardens. “It was an incredible day, inspired by the gardens onsite at the venue, which had fresh produce, tomatoes, and lemon trees.” By drawing from the natural elements around her, Amanda was able to create a celebration that felt perfectly suited to the space and the couple’s vision.
Her portfolio includes several iconic locations, with a particular fondness for the Franklin and Nashville areas. Each venue offers a unique charm that Amanda skillfully incorporates into her designs.
Planning weddings often comes with challenges, particularly when it comes to budget. Amanda is a firm believer in transparency and setting realistic expectations from the outset. “It’s important to have accurate projections from the get-go,” she emphasizes. By being open about costs, Amanda ensures her clients feel comfortable and prepared for what lies ahead. “I don’t like surprising clients with costs; I want them to be comfortable and ready for the wedding weekend.”
She encourages couples to make informed decisions and feel empowered throughout the process. “If the client understands ahead of time the cost of what they desire, they get to decide if that is a number they are comfortable spending. And if they are not comfortable spending that amount, then we alter the wedding design to better fit what they are comfortable with.”
When asked what advice she would give couples just beginning their wedding planning journey, Amanda’s answer is clear: “Always hire your planner first, before any other vendors are chosen. That includes, before choosing a date and before choosing a location!” Having a planner involved from the beginning, she believes, can make a world of difference in ensuring that every element aligns seamlessly. “Choosing your venue is extremely important, and you will want your planner’s input before you make this huge decision.”
For Amanda, it’s all about creating a seamless experience that allows couples to enjoy their day without worry or stress.
While Amanda has had the pleasure of working in many beautiful locations, there is one venue she dreams of planning more weddings at: “San Ysidro Ranch,” she says without hesitation. With its enchanting landscape and lush gardens, it’s a place that aligns perfectly with her style and vision. The venue’s natural beauty inspires Amanda to weave unique, unforgettable stories into each celebration.
Amanda Marie & Co. is a testament to the artistry and intentionality behind wedding planning. Her approach goes beyond crafting beautiful events; it’s about creating experiences that resonate with the couple and honor the space they inhabit. Through her talent, dedication, and vision, Amanda transforms each wedding into a timeless, elegant celebration of love.
