Meet Emily

The original Emily and bosslady of the office. She’s sung her way to the top and doesn’t miss a beat when when the unexpected happens. She harkens back to her Disney World days to make sure that every wedding is as smooth as it is special, and is always available to support her clients or team when things crescendo out of control. Her life is a grand adventure, and she’s the kind of lady you want in your life. Michael Buble thinks so too–he even proposed to her once!

10 Fun Things About Emily

1. My husband and I met and married in less than 9 months (set up by my identical twin sister). We have such an amazing story (just ask)!! We have been married for over 11 years. He is my strength, my support system, my joy, my love, and one pretty incredible dad to our 3 kiddos.
2. I hate spiders…I mean HATE them. My husband thinks it’s a bit funny how much I hate them.
3. I am NOT a morning person (I still force myself out of bed at 6am most mornings though). In fact, it’s probably best for me to have coffee before we chit chat.
4. Michael Buble asked me to marry him one night while we were hanging out on his tour…this is a great story (again, just ask me about it).
5. My twin sister and I beat the Los Lonely Boys in a televised singing competition in 2000. (we spent two weeks in Hawaii competing and filming.)
6. I own the piano that Mandy Moore played in the movie “A Walk To Remember”. I LOVE playing my piano!! It was built in the early 1900s.
7. I will get out of bed in the middle of the night to tuck the covers back in tightly. I can’t sleep if they come untucked….I know…this also makes my husband laugh.
8. For some reason my family members are usually the first to the scene when accidents happen. We all function well with adrenaline. We have held someone’s head until Life Flight landed, we called 911 and stayed with two people in the middle of the interstate who crashed their motorcycle after going over 100 MPH (they both lived). We have broken a window out of an overturned vehicle to pull the driver out. We have chased a getaway car after they robbed a store and ran over a police officer then stayed with them until the police could catch up and taker over the chase. My family won an award from the city of Orlando for that last one. We have a bunch of stories like these. Crazy…I know!
9. I got paid to play everyday for many years while singing at Walt Disney World. Made great friends and had tons of fun!
10. Our family has been thrown some curveballs in life, but we keep tickin’. Our daughter, at 3 months of age, was diagnosed with infant botulism (no, she didn’t eat honey). Doctors say we will never know how she got it… and that most likely she swallowed a dust particle that contained the botulism spore. She was given the anti-toxin and after two weeks in the hospital and intubated, she made a full recovery. Exactly one year later, our then 8 year old son was diagnosed with kidney cancer (Wilm’s Tumor). He went through surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, and kicked cancer’s tail. Our family has been supported by our community every step of the way, and Emily Weddings, Inc never skipped a beat. To say we are blessed is an understatement. We are on an incredible journey!

Meet Andelyn

Andelyn is an expert event planner and promises that she won’t book your wedding night in a Volkswagen Beetle (she knows from experience that it’s not the best night’s sleep). She’s a natural hostess and got her start by planning events for her Beanie Babies at the age of 5. She knows that the best part of a wedding is when the Bride and Groom see each other for the first time, so she always works to make that moment extra special.

10 Fun Things About Elaine

1. When meeting people, I always say “My name is Andelyn and it rhymes with mandolin” to help them pronounce it correctly (I have found that a lot of people don’t actually know what a mandolin is).
2. My name was actually taken from a family’s last name that owned a restaurant in Utah called “Andelin’s Gable House”.
3. Growing up, my dad climbed the corporate ladder so we moved around a lot. I have lived in Utah, Nevada, California, Louisiana, Maryland, and now Virginia (by my own choosing).
4. Every time I’ve moved to a new state, the former state got hit by a natural disaster shortly after. When I moved to California in 1997, Nevada experienced landslides. When I moved to Louisiana in 2008, the community I lived in California experienced severe wild fires. When I moved to Maryland in 2004, Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana. Just recently I moved to Virginia and my hometown’s main street in Maryland was wiped out by a flood. Let’s hope that I stick around for awhile ????
5. I was bitten by a kangaroo while visiting Australia and I still have the scar to prove it!
6. I can do spiders, rodents, snakes, and pretty much any creepy crawly…but I LITERALLY CANNOT EVEN with frogs.
7. I am known to be very spontaneous and in college, my two girlfriends and I went on a Spring Break road trip to Daytona Florida in my Volkswagen Beetle with the intentions of living in it for the week. Things ended differently and for the better and I have been a much better planner ever since.
8. I am a donut enthusiast and I live one block from a Dunkin Donuts and eight blocks from a Duck Donuts but have been known to drive two hours for a “hot and ready” Krispy Kreme.
9. I am a French Bulldog owner wannabe. I have a Pinterest Board dedicated to my future dog and lose all self control when I see a Frenchie in real life.
10. Event planning for me began at the young age of five years old, putting on live concerts, filmed fashion shows, wedding ceremonies, baptisms, and lavish birthday parties for my beanie babies and pets. Hospitality has always been a passion of mine and working for Emily Weddings has fulfilled my childhood dreams.

Meet Elaine

It’s a sailor’s life for Elaine–she lives on a boat! On land or at sea, she can put even the most sea-sick guest at ease with her charm and smooth sailing skills. She’ll literally teach you how to tie the knot–just ask! She’s punctual and poised and keeps everyone and everything running smoothly for your big day.

10 Fun Things About Elaine

1. My husband and I live on a boat. It is completely normal for me, as my parents have been living on a boat for 4 years now and I have grown up sailing since I was 12 years old. We love the simple and beach-y lifestyle
2. I graduated second in my class. Virginia Tech Class of 2015; Public Relations.
3. After graduating high school, unlike the typical summer before college, I moved to Ocracoke in the Outer Banks. I worked at a surf shop and learned how to surf.
4. I have traveled to Australia, New Zealand, London, Mexico and over 35 states; mostly all before I was 12.
5. I have never broken a bone…knock on wood!
6. My dad was born in Alaska and adopted. His natives came over from Northern Europe. We are Finish, Swedish, and Norwegian.
7. I was a ballerina growing up and performed in many Nutcracker productions.
8. I am horrible at remembering song lyrics and movie quotes. I am great at remembering phone numbers, dates, and pretty much anything with numbers.
9. I am a foodie and love to try different drinks. One day I would love to go on a trip solely based on eating and drinking, preferably in Europe.
10. I love Netflix and Hulu. It’s what got me through college. If you need any recommendations on a good series to get into, just ask me!

Meet Rachel

Rachel’s planned everything from mega-celebrity events to intimate family weddings and knows how to make each everything you want it to be. Her favorite events are one that make someone’s dream come true (especially if there’s cake involved!). She knows the best-kept secrets in Hawaii and Florida, and she’ll share her secrets so that you get just want you want without the crowds.

10 Fun Things About Rachel

1. I am a total dog lover but I am obsessed with one breed in particular… Bichon Frise’s. I have no idea why, I’ve just always liked them a lot. It started when I was a little girl (about 10) and I saw one in a pet shop (I know, don’t buy from pet shops!) and begged my mom to let me have her. Since then my whole family has only had Bichon’s. And no more pet shops. We get our pets from rescue organizations.
2. My husband and I met through my hair dresser. I was getting my hair done and complaining about not finding any good guys and she said, “I know a perfect guy for you but unfortunately he is dating somebody right now.” Luckily about 3 weeks later that relationship ended and my hairdresser set us up on a blind date (that she actually attended as well) at Tortilla West in Norfolk. We hit it off and the rest is history!
3. I have a 3 year old son who keeps me hopping. Before having kids there were so many things that I said “I will never do when I have kids”. Never drive a minivan, never let them drink soda, never let them sleep in my bed, etc. The list goes on! I can say, I have done all of the above and then some!
4. I will only go in water that I can see my feet. I am a picky gal when it comes to beaches. I have been fortunate enough to visit some pretty incredible beaches. It now scares me out to go in water that I can’t see my feet.
5. When I was attending college in Florida, my parents lived in Hawaii so I got to spend all of my college breaks and summers in Hawaii. THAT WAS THE LIFE!
6. I was a color guard gal in high school and college! Yes, I was in the marching band. It was a lot of fun, especially in college at the big games.
7. I worked in Disney World for a semester in college at Epcot. I got to show people future products that IBM created. I still can’t believe that was my job because I’m not a “techie” person at all but I loved getting to learn the behind the scenes at such a magical place!
8. My dad was a Navy Diver so as a child, I moved around quite a bit and got to see and experience some cool stuff. I’ve lived in California twice, Virginia twice, Florida twice, and visited Hawaii quite often!
9. I took 6-7 years of piano lessons when I was a child and haven’t played for years. I really want to learn again!
10. I have a total sweet tooth. And yes, it gets me in trouble!

Meet Karen

Karen’s cheerful personality can make the most stressful moments serene, and she’s our resident bridal gown expert. Taffeta or tulle, she can repair it with her tool bag of tricks. She’ll help you get glowing for the big day with her skincare expertise, and can give you tips on all the best local wine to source for your wedding.

10 Fun Facts About Karen

1. I was born and raised in Northern Virginia. Living 30 minutes outside DC I had some pretty cool field trips!
2. Parents retired from 30+ year government careers and moved from the suburbs to purchase a 10-acre property in Charlottesville, VA. They are loving a more relaxed, community based lifestyle in the mountains! I love visiting and checking out the countless wineries in the fall.
3. Many people are surprised to learn I was a competitive cheerleader for 9 years. I loved it! We travelled the country year-round competing and won several National Championships.
4. I legitimately love cleaning and organizing. Instant gratification.
5. My brother is in the Peace Corps, living in a small rural village in Cambodia. I recently visited him and met his host family there (who speaks NO English). It was quite the experience! I got to see how he has been living the past year and a half, and how he has been making a difference in their community as a public health volunteer.
6. I could live on Chipotle, sushi, and Italian food.
7. A year after I graduated from Old Dominion, two friends and I left our jobs, friends, and family to move to Charleston, SC. With no jobs lined up and not knowing a soul who lived there, it was quite the leap! We stayed there just under two years and loved it!
8. Apart from Emily Weddings, I get to help men and women get great skin with my Rodan + Fields business I began in 2015. It is one of the most empowering, fun and positive influences in my life.
9. Before I moved to Charleston, I worked at Maya Couture Bridal Salon in Norfolk helping brides find their dream wedding gown, bridesmaid dresses and tuxedos. As well as being an associate for Emily Weddings, I now work at Priveé Bride of Ghent, also under House of Maya. I have a passion for styling brides in the most breath-taking and elegant attire to match their unique taste and personality. Helping a woman feel her absolute best for her wedding day is beyond rewarding and I truly LOVE what I do!
10. Emily Weddings is unlike any of team of women I have been a part of. Each of us bring a different skill-set and personality to the group dynamic. We are each other’s biggest cheerleaders and work seamlessly together towards the same goal- to make the couple’s day exactly how they imagined it to be.

Meet Kate

Kate is an artist at heart and brings an artistic touch to everything she does at Emily Weddings. She’s equally skilled with a makeup brush or a paintbrush, and will probably (definitely!) tear up during your wedding (thank goodness for waterproof mascara!).

10 Fun Things About Kate

1. I wear my heart on my sleeve and will sob at the mention of an emotional story
2. I am a proud Navy wife!
3. I hate- HATE- the word “treat”
4. I have been a designer from a very young age and have experience in everything from photography to cosmetics to interior design.
5. I am currently in the beginning stages of renovating a home with my husband! We are first time DIY’ers and are having a blast learning as we go!
6. I have had the same close-knit group of girlfriends throughout my entire life.
7. My wedding started an hour late because my husband was helping at the scene of a serious car accident that took place in front of our venue. Our story was printed in three different newspapers, and was even broadcasted on the local news!
8. I grew up in a quaint town in the “quiet corner” of Connecticut where my parents still live and are active members of the community
9. I was never very organized until later in life. These days, I have become the go-to gal for organizational advice!
10. I turned down a managerial position with a high-end cosmetic company to begin an unpaid internship with Emily Weddings. It was hands down the best decision of my life!

*Bonus fun fact- Donnie Wahlberg (New Kids On The Block) made out with Kate…We can’t make this stuff up! #covergirl

Meet Brittney

Brittney is the go-to gal at Emily Weddings for all things beach related. She’s loved weddings her whole life, and she especially loves marriage. Getting to orchestrate the details of a wedding so that a couple can focus on what matters most makes her heart sing with joy.

10 Fun Things About Brittney

1. I was the first girl born in over 100 years on my father’s side of the family. I am rocking blue jean overalls in my newborn pictures because of this!
2. I have the nickname “Ace” because I was born at 11:11am on 11/1/83 (8+3=11) and was the first grandchild on both sides of my family.
3. I had jaw surgery when I was a teen and have 3 metal plates and screws in my face. I think cartilage may have been removed from the tip of my nose during surgery because it is now hollow and feels like a clown nose if you squeeze it! Weird!!
4. I can fold my tongue into what looks like a 3 leaf clover.
5. I met my husband when I was a teen and married him young. We have been having a blast doing married life together for over 10 years! We have 2 awesome boys who were both the exact same weight when they were born. 6lbs 14oz.
6. I love black licorice. I will buy the bags of black jelly beans at Easter and love Good and Plentys! I always have candy in my bag on event days! :o)
7. I have traced my family back to living in Virginia Beach (Princess Anne County) to the early 1800’s. I love genealogy, learning about my ancestors and thinking about how they lived life! I am definitely an “old soul.” Antiquing is a hobby of mine.
8. Summer is my favorite season; the beach is in my blood! Besides our local beaches I grew up spending my summers on the beaches of the Outer Banks, NC. My husband and I enjoy exploring with our boys and teaching them the ways of the watermen. We are also a bit obsessed with searching for sharks teeth and sea glass; our collection is getting quite big! If you get to know me well, you will find out that I have a major love for all things coastal.
9. I love arts and crafts. I usually have more than one project going on at a time and love learning and trying new things. I especially love refinishing furniture. I would love to learn the art of stained glass next.
10. Home renovation is a major passion of mine. I love breathing new life into homes!

Amanda Manupella Photography

Moving to a new home during wedding planning is stressful: Make sure to plan carefully

Planning a wedding is an exciting but stressful endeavor. You have to get everything done on a short timeline, and hope that it all falls into place and everyone is happy. If you’re buying a house in the middle of all that, your stress level can shoot way up: Not only do you have to find the perfect house and sign on the dotted line, you also have to move!

There are ways to get everything done without losing your mind, but you have to be pretty good at planning. Your weekends are probably going to be pretty busy for a while.

Consider your finances: Paying for a wedding and a new house can put a strain on your budget. Make sure you plan for both. Have a firm budget for your wedding and stick to it. If you use credit cards to pay for wedding items and services, make those payments on schedule to remain in good credit standing for your home purchase. Prioritize your wedding must-haves and keep within your budget or you may regret it later. Search Pinterest for ways you can add a DIY touch while knowing where you should spend your money on wedding professionals. Your long-term goal of home-ownership should be properly prioritized along with your wedding plans and budget.  With that said, put a firm cap on your home purchase, too. Know exactly what you can afford before you buy.

If you have a lot of work to do on the house, consider hiring a contractor. According to HomeAdvisor, the average price to remodel a kitchen is $11,951 to $25,009, with a project timeline of six to seven weeks. HomeAdvisor also has a helpful list of the highest-rated kitchen remodelers in Virginia Beach to help you get your money’s worth. It’s important to know what you can afford to do before you buy a fixer-upper. With that said, it can save you money buying a lower-priced home and slowly making renovations. You just have to know what you want before you buy. If you’re super-handy, you can save money by doing it yourself, but you don’t want to have to worry about it in the middle of planning for your big day.

Use your wedding registry: Consider your needs, and add them to your wedding registry. That will help you get what you need instead of too much of one thing. Remember that you might get money as a gift for your wedding, which might change the amount of your down payment for your home purchase. If you think you might get enough to make a difference, consider waiting until after the wedding to make your down payment.

Make sure you and your fiance have discussed your financial goals together. If only one of you wants an elaborate wedding and the other wants to focus on saving and buying a house, you’re likely to have some trouble down the line. Work out some compromises together, and then stick to the plan. Honor each other’s needs, and you’ll be more likely to drift into wedded bliss.

When it’s time to move, make sure you agree on where your items are going. If you haven’t lived together before, finding space for the items of two people can be a challenge. Make sure one of you isn’t losing all his or her stuff while the other takes over. That can cause one person to not feel at home in the new space. Be willing to compromise for the sake of your spouse’s happiness.

With a little advanced planning, you and your new spouse can make a smooth transition into your new home. Before long, you’ll be hosting cookouts and family gatherings in your space, and your friends and family will help you make beautiful memories.

Guest blogger,  Julie Morris