January 29, 2019

Hello everyone, we are so excited to announce Rachel’s addition to the Ohana Event’s team! She has been working behind the scenes AND at most of our weddings since we launched. I’m sure some of our past clients will recognize this young lady from 2017 and 2018. Rachel and I met 2+ years ago while I was at my previous planning firm. She showed such dedication and joy for the event planning business so I knew she would be a great addition to our team when it came time to expand.

Business has been pretty great thus far in 2019. I can only handle so many clients at one time so I can ensure I’m giving everyone enough attention. So that’s where Rachel comes in! She already has more than a handful of clients working with her for their big day in 2019. Some of you have met her and for some of you this is the first time you’re “meeting” your wedding planner, so say hello!

We wanted to start with a few fun questions so everyone can get to know Rachel!

Q: Tell us about yourself! Where did you grow up? Where did you get your education? What did you study in school?
A: I was born and raised in Naperville and I’m counting down the seconds until I relocate to the city! University of Missouri is my alma mater. There I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Conference and Events, as well as a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences.

Q: It sounds like you love Chicago, what are your favorite things to do downtown?
A: I love to enjoy the immense variety of live music, eat my way around town, and enjoy the beach front (summer can’t come soon enough!)

Q: If you could describe your ideal client, who would that be?
A: My ideal client would be one that has a bubbly and fun personality to match my own. One that has a vision of their perfect event, but is open and willing to trying new ideas (that’s where I come in!). Lastly, someone that understands there can be hiccups at every event BUT they trust that I will take care of everything behind the scenes to make a flawless day!

Q: Tell us about one of your favorite weddings to date, and why?
A: One of my favorite weddings to date would have to be Kristen and Neal’s at the Adler Planetarium last June. Not only were Kristen and Neal amazing people, the wedding itself was a dream. You can’t compete with the breathtaking view they had of the city skyline and Navy Pier. They also opened up the exhibits in the museum so guests could experience the Adler Planetarium which I thought was great for guests who have not been. All the guests were ready to celebrate the newlyweds, including many of their IU college friends who all took a timeless photo with their school’s flag. To throw a cherry on top of the cake, they were able to end their night watching the fireworks over Navy Pier…really, what could be better?!

Q: What is your favorite part of planning weddings?
A: My favorite part of planning weddings would be taking the stress off our clients. I am a people pleaser, and when I make someone else’s life easier that means I am doing what makes me happy. Allowing our clients to focus on what matters (their new spouse, enjoying their special day) gives us time to take care of the rest.

Q: If you could go anywhere in the world for 2 weeks, where would you go and why?
A: Fortunately enough – I get to make this dream come true! I have always wanted to visit Italy for its bright colors, delicious food, and amazing culture. This June I have been given the opportunity to travel through Italy, Florence, Venice, and Rome with my sister.

Q: Are you a coffee or cocktail lady?
A: I feel this is the same as are you a morning or a night time person, to which I always answer…both! Every morning I get my cup or two of coffee to get my day started. But just as much as I enjoy my cup of joe, I will never turn down a yummy cocktail!

Q: Do you have any funny wedding stories to share with us?
A: For one of my first weddings I ever worked with Danielle, the grooms parents wanted to surprise the couple with one of their favorite pastimes. We ended up getting the Chicago Bears Mascot to make a guest appearance at the reception! The groom was slightly taken back (but continued to laugh) when Staley Da Bear got on one knee and “proposed” to the bride. Such a great time!

Q: Can you describe your dream wedding in a few sentences?
A: My dream wedding will be a small, intimate, elegant event. We will have a ceremony our closest family and friends on the beach, followed by a reception that consists of 80% dancing, and 20% eating.

Q: Why do you think hiring a wedding planner, even a day-of coordinator, is so important?
A: I believe hiring an wedding/event planner is more important than people may believe. It’s almost an investment in your health, if you associate how much stress we eliminate overtime. Our sole purpose is to make your life easier. We are meant to be a voice of reason, provide guidance, make the planning process fun and exciting overall.

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to learn a little more about Rachel, feel free to reach out to schedule a complimentary consultation with either of us!

Happy wedding planning!
-Danielle & Rachel, Ohana Events

Photos by: Dan Voss Photography