Vendors I Love: LOLI EVENTS
photo by Heather Waraska
I met Rachel at an industry event years ago and immediately loved her energy. We finally got to work together this season, and I saw her in action. Rachel (and her team!) had a quiet confidence. They were like little ninjas - making sure that everything was in place and on schedule with little fanfare. I am beyond excited to share a little light on RACHEL URBAN from LOLI EVENTS.
photo by Liron Erel
What was the path that led you to become a planner?
I first moved to NYC in my early 20s and I knew immediately that I wanted to be an event planner, but I didn't have any experience yet. I cold emailed every planner on the NY Magazine's list of wedding planners in NYC (there were soo many, and I had so much energy!) I started freelancing for a few planners who got back to me. I was just a sponge wanting to learn anything and everything. Ultimately my aesthetic and work ethic aligned best with Loli Events. So after 2 years of freelancing, I went full time Loli, and never looked back! I now own the NYC side of Loli Events - the position grew and grew over the years. I'm so grateful.
What excites you about weddings?
As cheesy as it sounds, I love the bare bones tradition of marriage. I think when you peel back all of the fluff, that part is truly so special. Then from there, adding to it and highlighting time with family, designs that speak to the couple, and creating a fun party, are all icing on the cake!
What do you look for in a couple?
I really pride myself on being extremely detail oriented but also a calming presence for my couples on a wedding day. I'm not the planner who adds stress to the couple & to the team. I really try to find couples who match well with that energy.
What is the greatest compliment you’ve ever received?
I am complimented by so many couples on my calming presence and ability to handle stress well. I think wedding planning automatically correlates with stress.. so being complimented on handling stress with grace always makes me so proud!
Another one…I was planning a wedding recently and this older man came up to me and said he's been working in the film industry for years. He could tell when someone is or isn't doing well in a high stress job. He said to me "don't ever quit what you're doing - you're exactly where you are meant to be!" That was really so great to hear. I already know this…but sometimes when the going gets tough we've all had those moments of "ugh, am I doing a good enough job here?" Having a stranger/wedding guest tell you “YES” is very reassuring.
photo by Holtz Photography
What do you desire for your business?
We've been saying for years that Loli Events specializes in an "approachable-style luxury" and I think that can mean so many things. Not only visually, but the entire experience from start to finish should feel authentic. The more the business grows, the higher end the weddings are, my goal is to always stick to that core vision for Loli Events so we never lose sight of the authentic experiences we are creating for couples and their loved ones.
What are you grateful for?
My team!! I have a top notch team of assistant coordinators with me at every wedding and truly, it makes all the difference. Not only in the big moments but in every small moment too. I am so lucky to have such a great support system as I couldn't possibly coordinate every wedding day all on my own.
Any recent cause for celebration?
I planned a wedding this fall that was just featured in Vogue two weeks ago and I'm still over the moon. Seeing the article come out has been so surreal and exciting!
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LOLI EVENTS, PLEASE VISIT:
LOLI EVENTS (USA & Carribean)
LOLI EVENTS (France & European Destinations)
AND CHECK THEM OUT ON SOCIAL MEDIA: