Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Fling.
Hi Laura, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I fell in-love with wedding planning by planning my own. I had zero prior planning experience. I planned my wedding in 10 months, fell in-love with the process and once my wedding day had come and gone, I felt sad. Those “wedding blues” some speak of, for me it was a real thing and it hit hard. After we got married the world shut down. It was then I decided to create a new business out of literally nothing, except my wedding photos as my “portfolio”. I created a website within 48 hours, uploaded my photos from my wedding, signed up for The Knot and WeddingWire and wished for the best. I reached out to vendors I worked with for my wedding, created some styled shoots for additional content and somehow my efforts paid off. My first styled shoot was published and I had 35 weddings in 2022. It was sink or swim for me and I chose to swim, fake it till you make, whatever you would like to call it. I worked hard and I had a lot to learn. I have met some amazing vendors and couples along the way, and all because someone gave me a chance.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I have been so lucky to say overall my journey has been smooth. I honestly think I started my business at the right time. However, there are always struggles. It’s hard to say you have never planned a wedding before besides your own and expect to land the client. And sometimes you don’t get that dream client you really enjoyed chatting with. That’s when you have to learn to regroup and move on- win some lose some. The hardest part was finding my footing on the aspects of what goes into a wedding, learning the industry and creating relationships. This industry is full of talented vendors who are already established and have a name for themselves. You too have to find your niche and establish your own name. It takes time. Also, the industry is always changing- couple’s wants, trends, etc. always changing, meaning you also have to change along with it, adapt. Otherwise, I have been very blessed with how quickly LLE took off but the momentum needs to continue.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I plan and design weddings for amazing couples all over the DMV and beyond. I wear many hats to create a seamless and intentional event for both my couples and their guests. I offer different packages based off the needs of my couples, from full planning to event management. All packages are built with thought and intention to ensure everyone is set for success, whichever package they choose.
Full planning is from start to finish- venue and vendor selection, vendor management, design and day-of execution, everything. Partial is a little less hands on, most couples who go the partial planning route already have a venue and maybe one or two additional vendors selected. Design is really for those who struggle to see the big picture come to life but have a good handle on vendors and booking said vendors. And event management is our least hands on package however, we begin working with you 3 months in advance to ensure a seamless transition from your hard work to our tasks to tie all loose ends and execute the day of your dreams.
We want to be seen as a resource throughout the planning process, and a trustworthy figure during this process. Even with a planner, planning can be stressful but I try my best to be a transparent, honest and a trustworthy resource through it all. My job is to serve my couples with their best interest at heart.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Shadow! Take the time to learn from someone, ask questions, pay attention and get ready to work hard. Gain that hands on experience from someone who is in the industry. The hands on part is so critical. Wedding days are no easy fit. You must know how to adapt, pivot when needed, act under stress and pressure, all without showing it, be warm and welcoming and so, so much more. Don’t be scared to take risks- every business is a risk. Many fail however, you cannot go into this new journey with that mindset.
I didn’t have the luxury to shadow, given COVID hit almost immediately after getting married. However, some might say that was a blessing in disguise because it made me work even harder and find my own way. However, I am always learning and watching how others operate, and taking little mental notes on how I can improve and implement some aspects in my work and business.
Also, I require every new member of my team to shadow me prior to joining my team. It’s vital we can work together like a well oiled machine on wedding days and you understand the expectations of a wedding day. Not only are you representing my business and my name but the couple and their family and friends.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lauralouiseeventsanddesign.com
- Instagram: @lauralouiseevents_design
