Spoiler alert: my day does not start with a 5 a.m. workout or a perfectly balanced smoothie.

I’m a wedding planner, a mom, and not the kind of person who jumps out of bed with a motivational playlist. My days are shaped by pajama school drop-offs, client calls, inbox, triage, and the steady rhythm of building weddings that feel deeply personal and beautifully seamless. Some days I’m mapping out timelines and finalizing rental orders. Other days I’m resetting ceremony chairs or helping a bride navigate a moment of overwhelm (yes, linen decisions can do that).

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of wedding planning? Here’s a real-life look at a day in the life of a wedding planner, and why no two days are ever quite the same.

7:00 a.m. – Rise and shine!

I wake up with some help from my husband (who’s somehow been up for hours) and go straight into “mom mode.” I peel myself out of bed and shuffle across the hall to wake up our daughter, who, bless her, is also not a morning person. Together, we move through the familiar motions: brushing teeth, getting dressed, and deciding which hair bow makes the cut.

We head downstairs and I give her a spoonful of peanut butter (a small, surprisingly effective motivation tactic), fill my water bottle, and we’re off. She’s ready. I’m…technically dressed. But she’s on time, and that’s a win.

8:00 a.m. – Morning Rhythm & Inbox Priorities

Back home, I make a simple breakfast, get dressed, and read my Bible before easing into work. Once I’m at my desk, I start with my inbox. Today, that includes coordinating with a florist and reviewing rental invoices.

There’s always a list, and I work through it line by line, thoughtfully and thoroughly. Whether I’m confirming final guest counts, replying to new inquiries, or refining the week’s priorities, every email is a step towards making your wedding day run smoothly. 

9:00 a.m. – Venue Visit at Goodstone Inn

This morning, I visited Goodstone Inn—one of my favorite wedding venues in Northern Virginia.Though the forecast called for rain, we were met with sunshine (but yes, I had a backup plan ready either way).

Solo venue walkthroughs are a key part of what I offer as a wedding planner. They allow me to think through the logistics, layout, and guest flow, and make informed recommendations that ensure your day feels easy and intentional.

11:30 p.m. – Backend Business & Systems Work

Back home, I grab a quick smoothie and I log into Dubsado to refine client workflows and update a few contract templates. These behind-the-scenes systems are what help me deliver a seamless and consistent experience to my couples, from the moment they inquire to the final send-off.

12:30 p.m. – Coaching, Strategy & Styled Shoot Prep

Afternoons often involve big-picture thinking and creative prep. Today, I had a coaching call to continue refining how I serve couples through automation, client experience, and long-term growth.

Afterwards, I shift into styled shoot mode—checking off the prep list, confirming vendor details, and making a note to order a few last-minute items (looking at you, taper candle holders!).

A little later, a bride calls to share that she’s officially booked her venue, and we celebrate the moment together. It’s one of the many small joys that make this work so fulfilling.

3:00 p.m. – Timeline Edits & Wedding Week Prep

As the workday winds down, I take time to double-check timelines, confirm vendor logistics, and finalize details for the weekend’s wedding. My version of an “emergency kit” starts long before the big day. It’s rooted in thorough planning, preparation, and peace of mind. My goal is to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly, no matter what surprises come our way.

4:00 p.m. – Family Time & Wrap-Up

With the workday complete, I shift back into family mode. I prep dinner, pick up our daughter from school, and ease into our evening routine. While wedding days often run late into the night, today I’m able to tuck away my laptop and be fully present at home.

Being a wedding planner means balancing schedules, design boards, and meaningful relationships. No two days look the same—but every day is a step toward creating a wedding experience that is calm, beautiful, and uniquely yours.

Whether I’m visiting a venue, solving a last-minute hiccup, or celebrating a booked date with a bride, I carry both the spreadsheets and the love stories with care and clarity.

If you’re looking for a Northern Virginia wedding planner who can help you plan a celebration that’s thoughtful, grounded, and true to your story – I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Let’s bring your vision to life, one intentional detail at a time.