When couples search for a Virginia or DC wedding planner, they’re often looking for more than logistics. They want guidance, collaboration, and a team they can truly trust. Laurel Elise Events is known for creating intentional, highly personal weddings through a collaborative planning process that keeps couples calm, confident, and present on their wedding day. I’m excited to launch my Virginia and DC Wedding Planner Spotlight series by featuring Elise.
Laurel Elise Events (Elise) was kind enough to chat with me about wedding planning priorities, budgeting mistakes to avoid, timelines, and what really makes a wedding day feel effortless.
Welcome to the first post in the Virginia and DC Wedding Planner Spotlight series. Grab a hot cocoa, coffee, tea, or even a glass of wine, as we get to know Elise of Laurel Elise Events.
Photograph by Jen Fariello | Courtesy of Laural Elise Events
What Types of Couples and Weddings Does Laurel Elise Events Love to Plan?
Laurel Elise Events works best with couples who are excited to collaborate and trust the planning process, especially when it comes to design.
“Hiring a planner shouldn’t feel like checking a box,” she shares. “It should feel like a true partnership. The best weddings happen when both the couple and the planning team are equally invested and excited.”
This approach allows each wedding to feel personal, intentional, and deeply meaningful, not cookie-cutter.
A Simple Wedding Planning Process (From Start to Finish)
The planning philosophy with Elise is clear and streamlined:
Budget → Book → Design → Mockup → Execute
Starting with a solid budget ensures couples’ vision aligns with reality before vendors are booked, setting the foundation for a smooth planning experience and wedding day.
The Biggest Wedding Planning Mistake Couples Make
One of the most common issues couples face?
Not getting help with budgeting early, or not confirming that their vision aligns with their budget before booking vendors.
Clarifying financial priorities upfront allows couples to make confident decisions and avoid unnecessary stress later in the process.
The #1 Tip for a Stress-Free Wedding Day Timeline
Buffer time. And then add more.
“A first look with your dad should never be scheduled for five minutes,” she says. “Give yourself time to be present and fully experience each moment.”
A thoughtfully built wedding day timeline allows couples to move naturally through the day, without feeling rushed.
“The timeline should be on my mind, not yours.”
Top Wedding Budget Priorities (From a Professional Planner)
Every couple’s priorities are different, but Elise often recommends focusing on:
- Photography & videography — how you remember your wedding day
- Design elements
- Stationery and paper goods
These are the details that shape both the experience and the memories couples carry forward.
Wedding Trends That Feel Timeless
One major trend that’s here to stay?
Personalization.
“Being extremely personal is a ‘trend’ right now, but it will always stand the test of time. No one can judge you for including something that actually meant something to you.”
Meaningful choices will always outlast fleeting trends.
What Makes a Great Wedding Vendor Team?
From a planner’s perspective, the strongest vendor teams share three things:
- Flexibility
- Mutual respect
- Experience
“No vendor is more important than another,” they explain. “Photography, videography, hair and makeup, catering — all timelines deserve equal respect. Experience makes all the difference.”
This mindset leads to smoother wedding days and better collaboration across the board.
Advice for Couples Who Want to Truly Enjoy Their Wedding Day
“Let go. Trust your team. Go enjoy your wedding, and let us handle everything else.”
Favorite Wedding Venues in Virginia & DC
One standout venue?
“The sunset views are unbeatable,” Elise says, making it a favorite for both couples and planners alike. I agree with that sentiment!
The views at Pippin Hill are certainly breathtaking.
How to Have Amazing Wedding Photos and a Relaxed Day
Their advice is simple but powerful:
“Hire someone you feel comfortable with, and do an engagement shoot. You want your photographer to feel like a friend on your wedding day, not a stranger.”
Comfort leads to natural, authentic photos and a calmer experience overall.
Contact Laurel Elise Events
Couples planning a wedding in Virginia or Washington, DC can connect with Laurel Elise Events here:
- Email: hello@laurelelise.com
- Website: www.laurelelise.com
- Instagram: @laurelelise
- TikTok: @laurelelise
A big thank you to Elise of Laurel Elise Events for sharing your expertise and perspective! As a Virginia & DC wedding photographer, I love working alongside planners who prioritize thoughtful timelines, true collaboration, and a seamless experience for couples from start to finish.
If you’re planning a wedding in Virginia or DC and value a calm, collaborative experience, we would both love to connect with you!
Learn More About Working Together