WEDDING CODE
From exquisite weddings in the South of France, to nature-filled celebrations in Colorado, Stefanie Cove has planned fabulous weddings around the world.
Whether you are looking for a traditional wedding, or a non-bridal, four-day extravaganza, Stefanie is your girl. Connecting with clients and helping them navigate the decision-making process is one of her favorite parts of the process, which certainly says a lot about how your planning journey will be if you chose to work with her! Stefanie talks to us about how her love for event planning began, a few favorite destinations, and the best tips on choosing where to get married.
1
Tell us about your introduction to the world of event planning? What inspired you to start on this journey?
I had been working in events and food and beverage for a while (restaurants specifically), and I moved to Aspen, Colorado. I worked at The Little Nell Hotel in Aspen and became much more interested in social events - specifically weddings. I loved the detail and design aspect … while still managing logistics, team members, etc. Working with clients was probably my favorite part, and really understanding what their perfect wedding was. I loved seeing things that they responded well to (art, architecture, florals) and putting it together with an evening that made logistical sense. This is still my favorite part, and I love that many of our clients are looking for the non-bridal or typical wedding weekend which makes our job even more exciting!
2
- What is your favorite destination for a Winter wedding? And for Spring? Tell us why!
- I have two for a winter wedding. Aspen is one because I have such great winter memories there (including many white weddings at the top of Aspen mountain). But the other would be Saint Moritz or Zermatt. Switzerland is one of the most magical places in the world, and I would love to do a winter wedding there! In fact, I would love to do a summer wedding there too. For the Spring, there are so many great spots! I do love a Caribbean wedding in the Spring - Harbour Island or maybe the Exumas! Mexico is also great for Spring Weddings.
3
What are your thoughts for couples to define the destination and venue of their wedding?
This is always the hardest decision in my opinion. There are so many options and so many things to learn about venues and costs. It’s a crazy learning curve! I usually say that my most valuable clue to what the client should do has to do with their own gut instinct - and the location they keep going back to in our conversations. It is always important to think about things like the weather (is it hurricane season in the Caribbean?), and where your guests are traveling from to finalize (will they want to take 2 planes, a boat and a train!?). If you are using a venue that is not part of a hotel - definitely make sure there are plenty of rooms at different price ranges nearby. That is something you don’t want to figure out too late!
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My most valuable clue to what the client should do has to do with their own gut instinct - and the location they keep going back to in our conversations.
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- 4
- Any other tips for recently engaged couples that are strating their wedding planning process?
- Enjoy it - this does not need to be stressful! Hire someone that knows what they are doing so you can go through the process stress free. There is still plenty of availability for 2024, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Focus on the location, date and wedding planner. From there get your hotels lined up, photographer and entertainment (band, etc.).
- 5
- Describe your ideal dinner party
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Simplicity is the key for me here - especially for a casual dinner. Great music piped in, sushi or fresh fish and veggies, brut champagne.. that is all I need for a perfect night. For the table, I would add some pretty dishes and napkins + fresh cut flowers from the market. I also have great candles around the house that I would add.
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6
- What are your 3 favorite dinnerware collections from Collecto? What drew you to them?
- 1. The Blossom Yellow Plates from Cabana -- I love these happy colors and that they are all handpainted in Italy!
- 2. Love the Johana Ortiz’s in the magenta and the blues - These are so great - fun and playful while still being super stylish!
- 3. Aegean White Dinner Plates - I think this is a great neutral option - I love the sculptural elements in the design.
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I love that many of our clients are looking for the non-bridal or typical wedding weekend which makes our job even more exciting!
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STEFANIE'S PICKS