With every great event, there’s a fabulous planner behind it! Today, we’re featuring Naturally Yours Events, the eco-chic and Chicago-based event planner behind Wedtoberfest. Carlene Smith (Owner and Lead Planner) wanted to combine her love for two of her favorite things – weddings and beer – to create a unique wedding show + beer fest hybrid. She then decided to team up with Kelly Horvath (founder of Indie Wed), and it’s all history from there. Learn more about Naturally Yours Events by reading the Q&A below!
Photo by Mark Federighi Photography
How did you get started as an event planner?
I have always been obsessed with details — whether planning birthday parties at 10 years old, organizing huge trips to midnight showings of super geeky movies, or helping family and friends plan their most important life moments— and I was quickly known as “the planner” among those around me. It wasn’t until after earning a degree in advertising, working for a prestigious wedding photographer, and moving to Chicago that I had that “ah ha” moment: I love to plan events and I rock at it! Pairing my personal and professional commitment to the environment with a passion for details, Naturally Yours Events came into fruition. Now my team and I work with some truly amazing vendors to create unique and stress-free events that are absolutely fun!
Photo by Studio Starling
Photo by Maddie Blecha Photography
What is one of your favorite current beverage/bar trends that you’re seeing at weddings lately?
Photo by Tuan B & Co.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
It is so fun to see all the details come together on the big day as planned. I really love to see when my clients get excited about an idea we came up with or vendors we have booked together. Also, when their faces light up when they see the venue for the first time or they see each other for the first time is such a magical moment to be a part of in someone’s life.
Photo by Coach House Pictures
Thanks to Naturally Yours Events for doing what they do best – planning and coordinating Wedtoberfest! It was a hit this year, and we can’t wait for next year. To see more of their work, make sure to visit their website and social media channels.