Pop the Champagne: Cheers to Diverse & Chic Weddings
The wedding industry has long been painted with a narrow brushstroke, often synonymous with a singular aesthetic and clientele. As a Black woman in the wedding planning industry, I've always been passionate about challenging this perception. Luxury isn't a monolith; it's a reflection of individuality, creativity, and unparalleled experiences.
When my husband and I planned our wedding, we made a conscious decision to have at least 50% of our vendors identify as Black. We quickly discovered that finding Black vendors who aligned with our modern, high-end aesthetic was challenging. This experience solidified my commitment to increasing representation within the industry. For example, I searched tirelessly for a Black jeweler to design my wedding band and was thrilled to discover Sheryl Jones, an NYC-based artist whose work has been featured in Sotheby’s. Our wedding day was a testament to the incredible talent and creativity within the Black community, with Black vendors serving as our florist, photographer, pastry chef, DJ, hairstylist, and ring designer.
I believe that a wedding should be a mirror to the couple's love story, a celebration of their unique bond. Just this week, I had the pleasure of speaking with two incredible couples whose visions for their weddings couldn't have been more different. One couple dreamed of an intimate, old-school New York affair filled with timeless elegance, while the other envisioned a magical, luxurious celebration with a touch of enchantment. Both sought an upscale experience, but their definitions of luxury were as diverse as they were.
This is where inclusivity becomes paramount. As wedding planners and designers, we hold immense power to shape the industry and redefine its standards. I'm committed to curating vendor teams that reflect the diversity of my clients. My goal? At least 40% of the vendors I work with should identify as people of color or from underrepresented groups. It's about more than just representation; it's about creating a space where every couple feels seen, heard, and celebrated.
Understanding the nuances of culture, identity, and personal pronouns is essential. It's about creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and respected. We must challenge the outdated notion that luxury is exclusive to a particular demographic. It's time to break free from the cookie-cutter approach and embrace the beauty of diversity.
I believe that every couple deserves a wedding that is as unique as their love story. That's why I'm dedicated to getting to know my clients deeply, understanding their vision, and curating a team of vendors who align with their personalities and values. Intercultural and intergenerational communication is at the heart of what I do, and I approach each wedding with sensitivity, patience, and kindness. Planning your wedding should be a joyful, stress-free journey. You deserve to feel celebrated and supported every step of the way, without the burden of encountering microaggressions or feeling excluded. Your sole focus should be on cherishing the process and anticipating your dream day. It's an honor to be your partner in creating a wedding that authentically reflects your love story. Let's collaborate to design a celebration that is uniquely yours.
