Some of you might know that I spent the better part of the last 8 years producing events and weddings all over California.
When looking back on all of the parties I’ve done and planners that I’ve worked with, Stacy is by far at the top of the list. In fact, she’s a total gem!
She exemplifies grace under pressure. She exudes kindness. That honest, down-to-earth, “I-can-trust-you-with-the-most-important-day-of-my-life” kind of kindness. Working with Stacy is like having your best friend plan your wedding or event. She’s THAT good.
Stacy is a West Coast girl thru and thru. She was born and raised in Seattle, Washington and migrated down to the Bay Area in 2005. She has a long history of working in the events industry and in 2007 decided to venture out on her own and started Stacy McCain Event Planning.
I was lucky enough to spend a few hours with Stacy, snapped some pics, asked her a few burning questions that I’ve been dying to ask and got a tour of her sweet, light-filled office in the Dogpatch neighborhood of San Francisco.
Even more exciting is we shot some video of Stacy while I was there!
Above is a teaser of my “GET TO KNOW” video series which we just launched. I think it’s a beautiful taste of Stacy’s infectiously fun spirit! Hope you agree.
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How did you get involved planning weddings and events?
I knew at a very young age that I wanted to plan weddings. I loved the idea of creating things from scratch and seeing it come to life. The idea that using a beautiful tent with gorgeous chandeliers, crisp fine linens and elegant china could instantly transform the backyard of someone’s home into a lavish celebration took my breath away. I knew I wanted to be the person behind creating that experience for others.
What do you absolutely LOVE about what you do?
I love bring two families together. I love being on site and seeing all the swatch samples and photo inspiration come to life. I work so closely with a bride. Over the course of a year we discuss the ceremony, menu, flowers, music, lighting, all the details that go into creating an experience for the couple, their family and guests. It’s so rewarding to hear people comment about all those little details.
And when the mother of the bride comes up to me and says that she couldn’t have dreamed about this day without me there, that’s when I’m reminded “this is why I do what I do” and that feeling makes it all worthwhile.
What’s your philosophy about working with clients?
Trust and open communication.
I want my clients to be able to talk to me. To be able to share their good times as well as their frustrations.
Planning a wedding can certainly bring on stressful moments. Open communication allows clients to trust me, which in turns helps them to relax and enjoy the planning and ultimately the day of the event.
What do you think are the key things to consider when planning a wedding?
I think that it’s important to ask: what are the three most important aspects/details of the wedding for us as a couple? Both the bride and the groom should write these down separately and then share with one another. Once you understand what’s important to you both, you’ll have a clear idea of how to allocate funds.
Also, don’t sweat the small stuff. Sure, planning a wedding can be stressful, but be mindful of that and try not to let the little things get in the way of the what’s really important.
What’s the hardest thing about being a business owner?
I think that one of the most challenging things is remembering to have balance between work and personal time. It is important for me to remember to carve out time where I can do something for me, whether it is running, cooking, hiking, yoga or traveling.
Giving myself this time will ultimately make me better at my job. It can help challenge, motivate, inspire and sometimes offer clarity. All important traits in being a business owner.
What do you think makes you stand out from other event and wedding planners?
I bring a fresh approach to classic and modern weddings. I have a keen ear for listening. I offer guidance while supporting my client’s wishes. I am meticulous and organized yet am warm and kind. I’ve been told that I have a calm presence that puts people at ease.
You do destination weddings and have traveled a bunch – what’s your favorite place in the world?
I have a passion for traveling; it’s one of the things that I love most. The people, sounds, smells and colors continuously inspire me. A favorite is a trip to India that I took awhile back. So much color! Streets layered with vibrant fabrics, store after store with beautiful colored spices. Travel brings out new sights and sounds and inspires me to bring them back and integrate them into upcoming projects.
For Weddings :: The Ferry Building, Foreign Cinema, The Bentley Reserve and Town Hall.
For me :: Driving over the Golden Gate Bridge headed into San Francisco, nopa, Picnic & people watching in Dolores Park.
What keeps you inspired and motivated?
Traveling, taking photos, cooking, baking, Pinterest, Elle Decor magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings, Flea Markets and reading.
What’s something you’ve never told anyone before?
To this day, no matter how many times I’ve heard it, Pachelbel Canon in D is still my favorite wedding ceremony song.
WHY do you do what you do?
I get to work with inspiring people, who continuously challenge me to be creative. I get to work with my hands, paint outside the box and construct whatever my mind can dream up!
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Head over to the newly updated Stacy McCain Event Planning site to find out more about Stacy, see photo galleries of the luscious events she’s done and book your next event with her!
As a special gift, Stacy is offering TGWK readers, a FREE Consultation + a rare discount on full event planning services (including weddings) if booked by June 30, 2012!
Be sure to mention you saw her on The Girl Who Knows to get the VIP treatment.
I’m so honored to feature the sweet and talented Stacy McCain as the inaugural blog post in the GET TO KNOW blog series on The Girl Who Knows.
Every few weeks I’ll be posting a new fabulous person + biz for you to know about. So stay tuned for more!
