What sets my planning and design style apart from others'? 

I love my couples something fierce. 

My favorite part of the design phase is getting to know couples on a deeper level; their likes/dislikes, what makes them tick, their most memorable vacation, nicknames, least favorite color, you name it, I want to know about it. 

From there I work my gained knowledge about them (you), both as a couple and individually, into the wedding design - my goal is for your guests to notice details on wedding day and instantly recognize the connection to you or your fiancé. 

Detail and logistically oriented, with a calm demeanor, my initial response to putting out a fire? "Let's first take a deep breath and think this through."

The nitty gritty about my experience, I hold a degree in Hotel Management from Johnson & Wales University, where my course concentration was in Sales, Meetings, & Events. Through my education I had the pleasure of interning at one of Charlotte's most prestigious hotels where I spent time in the events, catering, group sales, front desk, and even housekeeping departments - I cannot tell you how often that firsthand experience has come into play over the past 10 years in the weddings & events industry. Additionally, I worked for another wedding planner to gain firsthand knowledge and begin building relationships with other creatives before launching Southern Savvy in 2011.  

I am a Charlotte native and love this city of ours. I’m a wannabe beach bum and my husband thrives when he’s on top of a mountain… being in between the two is truly the best of both worlds.

My closet consists of primarily Anthropologie, Free People, and FARM, with a bit of lulu and Patagonia mixed in for good measure. My husband, Ryan, and I are "those crazy dog people". Blame it on foster failing, big hearts, or maybe just wanting to make sure there's never a dull moment (probably a combination of those), but we have three dogs who stole our hearts - follow along with Southern Savvy on instagram, they frequently make cameos. 

The Lowcountry of South Carolina is my personal slice of heaven and craft beer is an art form. Nature is a driving force in my design style and when I'm not executing a wedding my weekends are usually spent outside embracing it - whether that be on a trail, by the ocean, on the patio of a brewery or just cruising on my bike, I love to be outdoors.

I consider myself genuine, authentic, and 100% transparent. What you see is what you get with me. Prior to your engagement you probably didn't have much experience in the wedding planning department and there is not much education about what goes into a successful event out there (spoiler: many logistics and details) - my promise is to always act in your best interest and educate you throughout the planning process.

Browse my look book, or contact me to learn more about Southern Savvy, preferred wedding planner and event design consultant in Charlotte, NC and beyond!

CHEERS,

Lauren Pressley