Stella Event Design

This Fall, I discovered a wedding planner based in Southwest Michigan who has the amazing job of working with lakeshore brides. Jessica Pennington of Stella Event Design has been working in the event planning industry since 2001, and has shared some wonderful professional insight with Wed Michigan. Congratulations, Jessica, on your successful business!

What is your favorite part about living in Michigan?
I love living along the lake shore! I've always loved living on the water, and now I am so thankful to be in such a beautiful area that provides such a scenic backdrop for weddings!



When did you first get started in the wedding industry?
I officially started Stella Event Design in 2007, and prior to that I was involved with non-profit and corporate event planning for 5 years. I love the event industry and wedding planning is my passion---I love helping couples celebrate such a special day!



What are some of your favorite elements to add to a wedding to make it unique?
I really love getting to know couples, and helping them find personal touches to make their wedding unique. It's different for every couple, but one of my favorite unique touches in 2008 were lego wedding favors! Legos were the couples favorite toy, so we bought lego kits, and they assembled them, took a picture with the finished creation, then we created cute personalized buckets for each child with the lego pieces, a picture of what it should look like assembled, and a personal note from the couple!



Any advice for couple's when planning their very own Michigan wedding?
One of the best things you can do to make your wedding a success is to choose great vendors. While the internet is a great resource to find vendors, you want to make sure to get first-hand referrals if you're not familiar with them! If you don't have a coordinator, ask recently married friends or family members about their experiences with vendors. Also, you can ask vendors for several past client referrals! On your wedding day you want to make sure you're surrounded by reliable vendors that meet your budget, style and personality!

{Photos 1 and 2 by JK Photography, Photo 3 by LVL Photography}