A Wedding Planner’s Perspective on Being a Bride

Rachel, a seasoned wedding planner since 2016 with Ohana Events Inc., has orchestrated events across the nation and even internationally. But stepping into the role of a bride was an entirely new experience for her. “It was surreal living on the other side of things and experiencing being a bride,” she shared. This unique perspective has only strengthened her ability to empathize with and serve her couples.

Over the years, Belli Fiori has had the privilege of designing florals for many wedding professionals on their own special days. It’s always an honor to collaborate with those who pour their hearts into creating beautiful celebrations for others, and when it’s their turn to say "I do," we love nothing more than making them feel just as special and pampered as the couples they so carefully serve.

Rachel & Mike’s Love Story

Rachel and Mike’s story began during their college years at the University of Missouri (Mizzou). Their friendship eventually blossomed into a romance, leading them to Seattle for several years before returning to the Midwest. It was here, in their home region, that they chose to tie the knot and lay down roots.

A Modern, Timeless Wedding Style

Rachel and Mike envisioned a wedding that embodied modern elegance with a timeless touch, and every detail reflected their thoughtfully curated aesthetic. From their sleek attire to the refined ambiance, their vision came to life in a setting as stunning as their love story.

As an event planner herself, Rachel has spent years creating beautiful celebrations for others, and when it was finally her turn, she chose Westwind Hills as the perfect venue. Designed with both luxury and versatility in mind, the 11,000-square-foot space—meticulously crafted by an event planner and photographer—features high-end finishes and reclaimed white oak beams, striking a balance between modern sophistication and classic charm. Whether serving as a minimalist backdrop or transformed to match a unique décor style, Westwind Hills provided the ideal canvas for Rachel and Mike’s sleek and modern celebration.

To complement their vision, we designed floral arrangements that embraced a crisp, contemporary feel. Opting for a modern rose-forward design with no greenery, we kept the look clean and refined, allowing the soft, structured beauty of the blooms to shine without visual distraction. The result was an effortlessly elegant atmosphere that perfectly captured Rachel and Mike’s dream wedding aesthetic.

Creating a Memorable Guest Experience

For Rachel and Mike, creating an unforgettable experience for their guests was just as important as celebrating their own love story. They wanted every person in attendance to feel welcomed, cared for, and immersed in the joy of the day. To make this possible, they thoughtfully arranged transportation for those staying at the hotel, ensuring a smooth, stress-free, and safe journey to and from the venue.

From the moment guests arrived, they were met with an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality. A steady flow of delicious food and handcrafted cocktails kept everyone satisfied, while meaningful personal touches—woven throughout the décor and festivities—made the celebration feel deeply intimate. Whether it was the carefully curated music that set the perfect tone, the heartfelt toasts that brought laughter and happy tears, or the little surprises that reflected Rachel and Mike’s journey together, every detail was designed with their loved ones in mind.

By prioritizing their guests' comfort and enjoyment, Rachel and Mike ensured that their wedding wasn’t just a day to witness their union, but a true celebration—one where every friend and family member felt valued, included, and completely present in the moment.

Key Elements of the Day

Show stopping Attire

Rachel’s Paloma Blanca gown exuded “old money” sophistication with its modern-classic design. The gown’s standout features included elegant sleeves and buttons cascading down the back. Mike complemented her look in a custom white velvet jacket with ring-detail fabric lining from Tailored Gents. To emphasize the couple’s style, all guests were asked to wear black, allowing Rachel, Mike, and their flower girl to shine in white.

Music That Set the Tone

Every song at the wedding was meticulously curated and edited by their DJ to perfectly match key moments throughout the day. From the ceremony to the reception, the music added a personal and meaningful touch.

Ambiance & Design

Rachel and Mike’s winter wedding was bathed in candlelight, creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere. The innovative “classroom-style” U-shaped table arrangement fostered mingling among guests while naturally framing the dance floor at the center.

Floral Highlights

The floral design, provided by Belli Fiori, elevated the entire day. Rachel particularly loved the ceremony floral columns, which framed the couple beautifully during their vows. Another standout element was the white aisle runner, a last-minute addition that transformed the ceremony space and made a striking impact. The all-white floral palette popped against the black attire of the guests, creating a stunning visual contrast.

Living the Vision

Despite being a wedding planner herself, Rachel embraced the unpredictability of the day. “Something will always go wrong on wedding day, but it’s not that serious and doesn’t change the reason you are there and the love you have for each other,” she said. This mindset allowed her to fully enjoy the celebration, focusing on the moments that truly mattered.

Advice for Future Couples

Rachel’s advice for engaged couples is simple yet profound: “No one will remember your wedding like you think they might. Do what makes you happy because YOU will remember this day for the rest of your life.”

Rachel and Mike’s wedding at Westwind Hills was a perfect reflection of their love story and unique style. With a focus on timeless elegance, meaningful details, and guest comfort making their day truly unforgettable.