Nancy Ess Lighting Candles and Finalizing Finishing Touches for Styled Shoot

This is me

I genuinely believe that love is love. I will be your advocate and your cheerleader. I’ll be your motivator and organizer. I have had the privilege to help over 120 couples walk down the aisle. I have sewn dresses, stapled pants, spray painted flowers, held hands, cried, laughed, sang, built arbors, washed dishes, served drinks and food, and so much more. I am detail oriented and appreciate finishing touches. I am more than willing to jump in and do what it takes to make sure everyone who has come together to help you celebrate your love has what they need. I’m not afraid to get my hands or feet dirty to help someone in need. Don’t worry, I always bring a few changes of clothes and shoes. Along with the obvious items you might expect, I have a well equipped stock of just about anything you could imagine to help out in a pinch.

I love each moment leading up to a wedding and during. Even after so many years in the industry, every event is different and offers the opportunity to grow. I am proud to be a member of the wedding industry and to have the support of my family, friends, past couples, and colleagues.

I truly want this day to be about the two of you. I will never pressure tradition over your vision. I will help you every step leading up to your celebration to make sure you can enjoy your friends and family and the love you have for each other. I want the planning process to be fun. I will build a schedule and plan customized to your goals and needs.

Whether you are planning an intimate elopement or a large celebration, I have the resources, experience, and passion to support you.

Choosing a planner that works for you is so important. I would love to set up a time to get to know each other more.

And just in case you’re still curious …. A little bit more about me….

  • I was born in Ireland and lived in Sao Paulo, Brazil, but called Winston-Salem my home for most of my childhood with fond memories of trips to the mountains and most of my free time spent riding horses or hanging out at the barn.

  • I went to college at Appalachian State University and got my degree in Public Relations and Business. This is where I met Joel, my husband.

  • After graduation we spent seven years in Richmond, VA where I worked as a Project Coordinator.

  • From there, we moved north to Manchester, VT to help my family run our 21 room bed and breakfast and event barn and to assist with a local wedding planner in her office and at her events.

  • Our son was born at 11:11am on our 11th wedding anniversary in Vermont. Shortly after he was born, we made the tough decision to move back to NC to be closer to more family and old friends. We are excited to be back in the High Country with the opportunity to service the east coast and beyond.

To get a little more random…

  • My go-to after wedding meal is typically some sharp cheddar cheese and a nice glass (or two) or red wine

  • My happy place is with my feet in a river

  • I love a good book - so please feel free to share any and all recommendations

Below are some images from our wedding in Elkin, NC.