We’re so excited to welcome Gabby Gray to the Calluna Events team as our newest Lead Planner!
Gabby Gray is a South Georgia native who fell in love with weddings and design while planning her own wedding and designing remodeled homes. She took this passion and started working for a restaurant group in Atlanta, Georgia. During her time here, she planned upscale events ranging from corporate happy hours to weddings on rooftops, overlooking the city. Eventually, the Rocky Mountains called her name and after 20 years in the south, she made her way to Colorado in January of 2022. She has most recently planned weddings and events at a 4-star property in Boulder, where she continued to foster her creativity and passion for weddings. Gabby is excited to bring her passion for love and Southern charm to the Calluna Events team!
Here’s more about Gabby!
Okay – now for some good ole’ fashioned rapid fire:
We are thrilled to announce we’ve won The Knot Best of Weddings award for the 17th year in a row and Wedding Wire’s Couples’ Choice Award!
These awards are always so heartwarmingly meaningful to us because it’s due to the positive reviews and testimonials we’ve received from our dear Calluna clients. It is a true honor that the clients we have the privilege of working with were so happy with our services that they took the time to write a review about our work. We are forever grateful for the work we do and the clients we have the pleasure of working with!
We cannot thank you enough for these meaningful awards! Please keep reading for more details about this special honor!
Photography by Michelle Beller
Calluna Events is pleased to announce that we been selected as a 2023 winner of The Knot Best of Weddings, an accolade representing the highest- and most-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot, a leading wedding vendor marketplace and planning authority that’s inspired 25 million couples to plan a wedding that’s uniquely them. This is the 17th year Calluna Events has been named a winner of The Knot Best of Weddings awards.
In its seventeenth annual year, The Knot continues its long-standing tradition of supporting local wedding professionals with The Knot Best of Weddings 2023, an annual by-couples, for-couples guide to the top wedding vendors across the country.
To determine the winners, The Knot analyzed millions of its user reviews across various vendor categories—planners, venues, musicians, florists, photographers, caterers and more—to find the highest-rated vendors of the year. These winners represent the best of the best wedding professionals that engaged couples should consider booking for their own unique weddings.
The Wedding Wire Couples’ Choice Awards recognize local wedding professionals who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness, and professionalism. Winners are determined by the reviews from more than one million WeddingWire couples.
The Knot supports local wedding professionals through The Knot Marketplace, where couples can find and connect with any of the hundreds of thousands of local wedding professionals across the country to create their ideal wedding day. The Knot Best of Weddings award gives couples the confidence to book the best vendors to bring their wedding visions to life. In combination with years of trusted content, The Knot’s innovative technology helps all couples seamlessly plan a wedding that’s authentically them.
Wedding professionals who win The Knot Best of Weddings are members of WeddingPro, a leading B2B wedding brand. As the largest marketplace and community for wedding professionals, WeddingPro connects businesses with more than 20 million unique monthly visitors who are planning weddings on The Knot and WeddingWire, as well as with hundreds of thousands of pros in the industry. Through its online marketplaces, educational programs and community-building events, WeddingPro is dedicated to helping wedding professionals build relationships with couples and pros that grow their businesses.
For more information about The Knot Best of Weddings and this year’s winners, please visit this link!
Each year when we sit down to write our Year in Review, we are in awe of what we accomplished! 2022 was our 19th season in business and it finally felt like the world was entering a period of normalcy after the upheaval of 2020 and 2021.
Coming off 2021, which was a very challenging year as we worked tirelessly to celebrate our 2020 couples, plan our 2021 weddings while managing an unprecedented amount of engagements and inquiries, we took a step back to reflect on what we had been through and where we were going. We realized we were more passionate than ever about weddings and we wanted to continue our elevated style and focus on quality over quantity only accepting Full-Service clients.
Our team was proud to produce 41 Full-Service weddings in 2022! It felt like we were back to a post-pandemic normalcy as we watched our couples walk down the aisle, listen to toasts at receptions, and dance surrounded by those they love the most. We continue to feel so grateful to have a hand in these huge milestones for our couples!
We are so fortunate to do what we love and create beautiful weddings for our clients alongside this wonderful wedding community. We continue to be ever-so inspired by the Calluna Community – our clients who choose Calluna, the creative partners and venues we are fortunate to work so closely with, who continually entrust their clients with us.
We are particularly grateful for our clients from this year! Witnessing your weddings is a great honor! Once again, this year brought some incredible weddings and visions, where we were able to collaborate and be creative in ways we always dreamed of. We are forever grateful for our client’s trust in us and our ability to constantly grow and expand our offerings.
Without further ado, we are happy to share our highlights from 2022 with you!
Pia + Trevor in Lucca, Italy | Photography by Meredith Diamond
Leah + Drew at Westwood Country Club | Photography by Ashley Sawtelle
Morgan + David at Beano’s Cabin | Photography by Jess Leigh
Murph + Jason in Wyoming | Photography by James and Schulze
More Year In Reviews | 2021 | 2020 | 2019
Happy Thanksgiving to our clients, vendors, friends, and community! We are incredibly appreciative and honored for your love, support, partnership, and trust over the years!
We happily embrace the holiday as an opportunity to create space to gather with loved ones, to nourish our bodies with good food and drink, to rest, to set intentions for the coming chapters, and reflect on everything that helped us arrive to this moment.
This year our team took a moment of purposeful pause to reflect on the year behind us and share what we are wholeheartedly grateful for. We hope you join us in celebration this season and we wish you a very happy Thanksgiving from our family at Calluna Events to yours!
Photographer | Alp & Isle
Heather Dwight
“It’s that time of year when we pause and reflect on where we’ve been in our annual Thanksgiving blog post. I am so honored and humbled to be writing about gratitude once again. We are so fortunate to do what we do and create what we create for our clients alongside this wonderful wedding community. We are wrapping up our 19th season in business! I am ever-so inspired by the Calluna Community – our clients who choose Calluna, the creative partners and venues we are fortunate to work so closely with and who continually entrust their clients with us. I continue to be grateful to be able to go to work each day and do something I love and am passionate about. I am particularly grateful for our clients from this year. Witnessing your weddings is a great honor! Once again, this year brought some incredible weddings and visions, where we were able to collaborate and be creative in ways we never have. I am grateful for our clients’ trust in us and our ability to constantly grow and expand our offerings.
I am always in awe of and humbled by our team. They are the heart and soul of Calluna, my right hands, who work tirelessly and who have such positive enthusiasm for our couples. At the end of our second full season post COVID, I reflect back on what we navigated and the persistence and grit of our team. Wedding planning is sometimes a thankless job, a job behind the scenes and the cog that makes the entire wheel of the wedding turn. Our team makes our couples vision come to life and their wedding dreams happen. And their work allows me to expand Calluna in exciting projects. I consider them all friends and love the impact they’ve had on my life and my business.
I’m also so grateful for travel – it’s one of my greatest joys in life – to travel to inspiring places and experience new things – this past year I was fortunate to travel to Greece, Morocco, weddings across Colorado and Wyoming as well as Missouri, and took several road trips with my family in the southwest of Colorado and Utah.
I am forever grateful for the love and support of my family and my friends, especially my husband, Brandon, our daughter Maggie and son Grey. I’m grateful for where we live in Colorado – for fresh air, sunshine, being outside in the mountains. I’m grateful for my health and any time I can ride my bike or do a little yoga.”
Photographer | Ashley Sawtelle
Melanie Robertz
“It’s my very favorite season – a season for pause, reflection, celebration, and (hopefully!) a little bit of rest. As we mark the festive conclusion of this calendar year, delighted to share a sprinkling of what brings me joy, thanks and a full heart in a seemingly unending list of gratitude.
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to do what I love with the people of love; in helping create moments of joyous celebration that will be remembered for generations to come. I’m grateful to spend my days surrounded in the company of strong, creative, interesting people – colleagues, clients, vendors, entrepreneurs, (many of which are female founded and operated!) – who continue to inspire me to be the best version of myself each day. I’m immeasurably grateful for my health and the health and well-being of those around me, something we know not to take lightly in today’s time. I’m grateful for the everyday joys that come with being a new puppy parent (read: a very full camera roll), to watching my dear friends and family embark on big chapters (weddings! homes! jobs! babies!), to small moments of levity and laughter that go along with a life well-lived. We don’t know what’s to come, but we’ve gotten this far and that’s cause for celebration. Clinking my glass in spirit to all of you – Happy Thanksgiving and holiday season!”
Photographer | Alp & Isle
Lindsay Hayden
“Wow – it’s hard to believe that it’s already time to write this post again, the year has just flown by!
2022 has been one of the best years of my life and this year, I am most grateful for my husband (EEK! Still love saying that)! This year Ken and I got married in our favorite places in the world and pledged to spend the rest of our lives together. Planning your own wedding in the midst of planning weddings for all the amazing Calluna Couples was no small feat and I truly could not have pulled off the wedding of our dreams without his support! He might not have been picking out linens or negotiating a catering contract but I couldn’t have made it through this season without him.
To my friends and family – those who showed up and supported us over the last year of planning and celebrating. From engagement parties to bachelorette weekends (and so many matching theme outfits!) and bridal showers – 0ur wedding day wouldn’t have been the same without them! Coming in from all over the country to Aspen, Colorado was no easy feat and it was truly so humbling to look out and see all our loved ones in the same place. I often tell my couples that there are so few times in your life that all your people are in the same place together and to live that experience first hand was truly something that I’ll never forget.
And to our vendor partners – the support and creativity you brought to this season but especially to my wedding weekend is something that I’ll never truly be able to thank you all for. I feel so thankful and blessed to work alongside such creatives in this industry who dedicate everything they have to their couples and to be on the receiving end of that creativity and dedication was so special.
All in all – it was such a special year filled with so much love! It’s hard to imagine that 2023 will be able to top this year but the best is yet to come.”
Photographer | Vanessa Tierney
Jenna Frum
“At the beginning of this year, I set my intention to embody what I call the ’empowered manifester’ – someone who is fearless in following their heart. I had an inkling this would be the year of growth + change and it sure was! I moved from California to Colorado to pursue my dream career and reunite with my boyfriend Troy of five years after two years of long distance, we welcomed home our sweet Marigold who’s our fluffy golden retriever puppy ~ adding to our furry family with our two kitties Leo + Roo, I joined the Calluna Crew when wedding season began and have been loving it ever since, I have found ways to foster deep connection with my family despite the distance between us, and I just became an Auntie a couple weeks ago!
Change inspires growth and I’m incredibly grateful that I fiercely followed my heart when these opportunities arose, acknowledging the fear of the unknown while simultaneously finding centeredness around my aspirations and taking the leap of faith. As I embarked on this new chapter of my life, I’ve been so fortunate to have my loved ones by my side and am sending them so much love and gratitude for their unwavering support + encouragement through it all. I’m so grateful to be part of the Calluna Crew, a team of women who constantly inspire me as they pour their hearts into everything they do. Thank you for showing this California girl what Colorado is all about! I’m grateful for Troy who’s been there for me every step of the way ~ you have always inspired me to speak my truth, embrace my authenticity, and let my free spirit run wild! I’m grateful for our wonderful group of friendors we have here in Colorado and beyond ~ as planners with creative visions it’s entirely special to see it all come to life and we truly wouldn’t be able to do it without you!
My heart is also incredibly grateful for all the in between moments in life, the small things such as laughing so hard my dimples start to hurt, our furry friends Marigold, Leo, + Roo finding and choosing friendship with one another with all the purrs, cuddles, and kisses nose to snout ~ what a beautiful sign from nature of loving + kindness! ~ the golden yellow trees filling the slopes during the fall, butterflies that flutter toward me are like kisses from my angels in heaven, I could go on for days celebrating what fills my heart with joy and gratitude but I’ll save some for next year’s reflection! Sending all my love and gratitude to you on this Thanksgiving! Wishing you a lovely celebration full of joy!”
Photographer | Meredith Diamond
Kristen Kennedy
“This year I’m grateful for:
And of course my Calluna Crew. Love love love learning from this team of amazing ladies.”
Photographer | Rebecca Haley Photography
Gina Yeon
“Suffice it to say, there have been some monumental joys this year: getting engaged (!!!), building a home with my fiance, and celebrating love. Both in the form of our couples and weddings with Calluna, and also the smaller everyday celebrations of love with friends and family. While it’s so easy to focus on the big joys – the ones that come to the mind first when thinking about what I’m most grateful for, the tiny treasures also come to the surface when I think about why I am grateful for that thing.
I’ve been keeping a journal (sporadically), where I write down the top 3 things I am thankful for that day. While the big and consistent ones have been my health, my relationships, and more recently, a house to call our home, the tiny treasures that I also am grateful for no matter how silly also allows me to reflect on how much I have to be thankful for. Some of the entries: coffee, fresh flowers, seeing Enzo get the zoomies, the sun on an incredibly cold day in January, visiting a berry farm and picking all of the fruit, a magical sunset, clean socks, finding $5 dollars in a zipped pocket in an old purse, etc.
This year, I am so grateful for both the big joys and the smaller ones that fill up our day to day lives. Wishing everyone all of the joys – both big and small as they celebrate Thanksgiving this year!”
Kira Reed
“This year I am so thankful for being able to have the wedding of our dreams. We were married this September in Laguna Beach, CA. It was truly the best day of our lives and I am still riding high from it. We were surrounded by our family and friends and the outpouring of love was like nothing I have ever experienced. I felt such immense gratitude for those who traveled both near and far to be with us on our special day. I am thankful for the health of our family which allowed them all to be there and I look forward to celebrating Thanksgiving all together this year as a married couple!”
Photographer | Katrina Jayne
Taylor Sicko
“This year I am most grateful for friendship. After moving to a state where I knew virtually no one, I feel so grateful to have gradually found the people that make Colorado feel like home.”
Photographer | Alp & Isle
A few Thanksgiving reflections over the year!
We’re so excited to welcome Jenna Leigh Frum to the Calluna Events team as our newest Event Planner + Marketing Specialist!
Born and raised in sunny Southern California, Jenna graduated from UCLA with a degree in Communications and Entrepreneurship and launched her career in finance as a marketing specialist for a wealth management group in Los Angeles. She fell in love with the events industry after her sister’s wedding in Santa Barbara and quickly found her calling when she landed a job as an event coordinator at Annie Campbell, a full-service catering and party planning boutique in Hollywood known for planning events for Goop, Ralph Lauren, Glow Recipe and more! Driven by her desire to be closer to the wedding industry, Jenna took a role as a bridal stylist and marketing specialist for Casablanca Bridal in Newport Beach and most recently served as an event planner at Amorology Weddings in San Diego, a luxury full-service event coordination and styling company, prior to moving to Colorado!
Jenna is very excited to bring all her creative energy and passion for storytelling through events and marketing to the Calluna Crew!
More about Jenna!
Okay – now for some good ole’ fashioned rapid fire:
Photography | Kristin Karkoska at Blue Sky Studio
We couldn’t be more excited to introduce everyone to our hard-working interns! Gina & Megan started with us in February, and we can’t thank them enough for the behind-the-scenes work they put in assisting with wedding planning, marketing, and more!
xo, Calluna
Meet Gina:
I’m a Colorado native, but started event planning in New York City working as an intern at a company specializing in South Asian weddings. It was such a unique and fun experience that it only bolstered my love of weddings. I have a background in design, and love creating, drawing a lot of inspiration from the outdoors. When I’m not working, I like to spend time in the mountains – whether it be snowboarding, hiking, or fly fishing!
What is your favorite reception song?
90’s – 00’s Hip-Hop or R&B – the nostalgia is real!
Favorite flower?
Give me all the flowers! It’s so hard to choose just one, so if I had to pick my favorites, they would be tulips, ranunculuses, and garden roses.
Favorite dress designer?
I really like Vera Wang, Monique Lhullier, and more recently Samuelle Couture.
Favorite wedding movie?
The Wedding Planner was the first movie that made me fall in love with the planning process, but I’ve seen The Proposal too many times to count so it would probably be that one!
Meet Megan:
I’m graduating from Colorado State University in May with my degree in Hospitality Management. I was born and raised in Colorado with a big country girl heart, but a city girl attitude. My love for weddings probably started when I was a kid, watching any and all movies with a romantic love story, and then only grew when Say Yes To the Dress was the only show I watched!
What is your favorite reception song?
If I’m going to dance to anything at a wedding, you can bet it’s Shania Twain!
Favorite flower?
I love peonies and ranunculuses! But everyone who knows me, knows I’m a sucker for all things floral.
Favorite dress designer?
Hands down Hayley Paige! I love her unique designs and that she designs the most beautiful gowns.
Favorite wedding movie?
Father of the Bride 1&2! I’ve seen the movie more times than acceptable and still love them both!
Today we’d love for you to get to know Francesca! Francesca DeOrio is a native New Yorker who has worked in the hospitality industry for over a decade. Her background in hospitality management, restaurant operations and events coordination has honed her ability to multi-task her way through just about any project. Francesca and Calluna owner, Heather Dwight, first worked together when they collaborated on an event at The Kitchen Next Door. At the time, Francesca was the general manager and events planner. It was immediately evident that events managed by Francesca balanced good humor and positive thinking with innate problem-solving skills and a thorough eye for detail. Her extensive experience at The Kitchen restaurant group combined with her passionate enthusiasm for event and wedding planning makes Francesca a perfect addition to the Calluna Events team.
xo, Calluna
Photography | James and Schulze
What do you do to relax after a wedding is over?
Glass of wine and an Epson Salt Bath 😉
What is your favorite part of the planning process?
Floral Mock Up/Consult — its always when the vision truly comes alive!
What is your favorite reception song?
Can’t Stop The Feeling by Justin Timberlake
Favorite flower?
Ouuu … peonies and dahlia
One trend you are over seeing?
Rustic Chic …..
Photography (feature image) | Ashley Sawtelle
This week as a part of our Friday Introduction series, we are hearing from Jean! Jean Ellison began her career in weddings while working for a historic home located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Over the past nine years, Jean has built her career by managing weddings for Five Star resorts, luxury hotels, and country clubs across the South. Jean most recently comes from the Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts where she worked as the Social Catering Sales & Events Manager for both the Houston and Denver properties. While clients and colleagues appreciate Jean’s warm personality and quirky one-liners, it is her knowledge of food and wine, passion for service, and ability to effectively guide her clients that brings her to the Calluna Events team.
xo, Calluna
What do you do to relax after a wedding is over?
I take a hot bath then my hubby rubs my feet 🙂
What do you like to do when you’re not planning weddings?
I love long walks and yard work – any excuse to get outside!
What is your favorite reception song?
Anything from the classics! Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, etc.
Favorite flower?
White French Tulips
Favorite dress designer?
I don’t have one, but I’m currently loving what I’ve seen from Robert Bullock and Haley Paige
Favorite wedding movie?
Father of the Bride, of course!
What is some advice you would give couples planning their own wedding?
Enjoy the process and don’t get too caught up on the details if they’re stressing you out – sometimes simplicity is key!
Photography | Ashley Sawtelle
