It’s funny that I feel like this is the first introduction that I’ve done for Wade and we’ve been working together for several years. She just seems to be a little more behind the scenes in what we do and any publicity that we have that I feel like some folks may not realize how much she does for us.

Wade and I met when she was the Catering Sales Manager at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel and Conference Center at Grand National. Working with her was such a breeze. Not only that, but she knew her stuff when it came to how banquets, catering staff and hotels in general worked. She is even-keeled, professional and extremely hard working. The way she runs a wedding day is that special blend of authority and calm that every bride needs.

A few years ago, she called me to tell me that she would be leaving the Marriott. They had a growing family to consider! But, she knew that she would miss working with brides and working on wedding days. It was then that I knew that we should be working together more. And I’m thankful that we are still working together. I always know that when I hand a bride over to Wade that they are in the best of hands. Her guidance, her organization, her direction… it’s everything I would want for my clients.

So, consider this your intro to Wade! Until next time… XOXO, Julie

How did you get involved with weddings? After I graduated college I become a Catering Sales Manager at the Sheraton in Birmingham because I knew I wanted to be involved in event planning. Weddings were part of the job but little did I know how much I would enjoy them. I have been working with weddings ever since.

How would you describe yourself? I am very organized and like to be on a schedule. I am also a detailed oriented person so I rarely forget the small things.

What did you think you were going to be when you grew up, and did you ever imagine this is what you would be doing with your life?  Growing up I wanted to be a teacher and work with special needs children. I never would have thought I would be involved with event planning and weddings.

If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently? I actually wouldn’t. I love where I am and know that all my experience after college has brought me here.

What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful in wedding planning? Organization, vision and flexibility.

How many hours do you work a day on average? 10

What motivates you? Making people happy and seeing an event come to life.

What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear? I really don’t fear much. Anything you set your mind to you can conquer.

What is your guilty pleasure?  I love watching reality TV and almost anything on TLC. 

What has been the happiest moment in your life? I would have to say I have two, my wedding day in 2010 and when my husband and I welcomed our first son in 2012. 

Who has been your greatest inspiration? My mom.

What is your favorite aspect of wedding planning? Seeing the event come fruition.

What are you proudest of?  I am proud of the way my husband and I are raising our son. He has manners, acts polite at school and is very loving.

What does your office or workspace look like?  It depends on the time of year. It typically is very organized and put together but if you catch me during a busy, busy week it can be full of paperwork and post-it’s. 

​What is your pet peeve? Nail biting.

​One thing you never leave the house without. My gym clothes, you never know when you might have a free minute to get over to the gym!

Early bird or night owl? Early bird.