We have been photographing weddings in this area for over a decade, and I have had the pleasure to meet so many great people who work alongside of us in the industry. Sometimes, it might just be a “hello” in passing on a wedding day, or seeing someone briefly at a bridal show, etc. I realized that I might know the work of a florist, or the distinctive flavor of a caterer, but I didn’t really know the people behind the scenes. So, I’ve started reaching out to some of my favorite vendors in the area, and have begun photographing and interviewing them. I’d like to give potential brides a great behind-the-scenes look at the wedding professionals in the area, and the amazing work that they do. This is the fifth installment of a large series of spotlights!
Lindsey and I have worked alongside Morgan of Soirées for more than eight years. Our initial collaboration was also our first time to work at the Hunter Museum on 7/7/7! Over the years, it’s been amazing to see how Morgan and the Soirées team have defined and re-defined styles and shown such professionalism to so many clients. We know that when we are working with Soirées, our clients will have considerably less stress leading up to the wedding, be able to soak up and enjoy every minute of their wedding day, and that we’ll, in turn, be able to do our jobs more effectively.
Without any further ado, here is our dear friend Morgan, of Soirées!
Could you characterize your style in three words?
No, haha! Ever-changing is the best description. I like mixes of trends and traditions. I also love a good theme. My style changes on a daily basis depending on the mood and feel of the day…event…occasion.
What sets you apart from your competition?
Personalization. Our goal is to get to know each of our clients on an individual basis and determine exactly what type of event we are producing for them. It’s extremely important to us that our clients feel like their relationship with one another and with their families is fully represented on the day-of. I encourage all of my clients to step outside of the “bridal box” and bring designs and inspirations that are meaningful and timeless to their particular event. I don’t want all of my weddings to look or feel the same because all of my clients are extremely different. I want guests at the events to walk away with a better understanding of who the couple is so if my client is a modern New Yorker, I’m not going to recommend a barn wedding with burlap and lace just because it’s trendy!
How long have you been in business?
Soirées was established in 2006 and I have owned the business since 2008!
What do you love the most about Chattanooga?
I love that Chattanooga is such a small/big town. You can come here and experience so many things in a single weekend from local foods to breath-taking views. It has something to offer for absolutely everyone.
What inspires you?
Excitement and Passion. There is nothing better than sitting down and discussing topics with someone who is excited and passionate about a subject or situation. I think that it’s invigorating and refreshing to hear others perspectives, ideas and inspirations, so much so that it inspires me in many different forms to continue to learn, create, do!
What is your favorite aspect of your job?
The set-up. There is something to be said for months of planning in the form of visions and words and ideas coming together on one day in a physical and tangible form. From laying the linens to placing the items on the cake table, I love when the details come to life and you can step back to see the reality that you’ve created.
Do you have any advice you’d like to give engaged couples?
My favorite piece of advice from all my years of planning (and what I believe is likely the key to successful marriages!) sounds like this ….Brides, only ask your Groom’s opinion if you want it. Don’t ask him if he likes sage or mint for your bridesmaids dresses….You’re going to get frustrated at his lack of opinion and create stress where there doesn’t need to be. Grooms, once this understanding has been implemented, know that if she is asking you a question, she wants your honest feedback and opinion. No, “whatever you like” or “sure honey, that’s great”; get involved and put your mark on it. I think that is what makes an event feel warm and personal, when a guest can walk away and say “That is so (insert Bride/Groom’s Name)!” Planning is a joint effort and there is no need to create stress in a relationship when it could be avoided!
