Curated by Crooked Window, West Jefferson, NC (2024)

08/04/2024

I first met Brandon in 2022 when he officiated for his sister Cacey's wedding, which was the first wedding I ever took payment for working.

When Brooke inquired with me for her + Brandon's special day, it was one of the quickest "hell yea's" of my career! I was honored and elated to be chosen as their coordinator. I got even more excited with each wedding day decision that they made, and seeing each of those decisions come to life day-of was *chefs kiss.*

Bonus points for their incredibly cool, kind, and FUN wedding party & loved ones, the most incredible vegan cake from Stickboy, and THE VIEW!!

Thanks so much to Christan of In Bloom Photography NC for sharing these pics (& good dinner conversations).

Cakes:
Catering:
Coordination:
DJ:
Florals (live):
Hair + Makeup:
Officiant: Ceremonies by Daphne Trees
Photography:
Venue + Bartending:

05/13/2024

A belated cheers to all the mothers, grandmothers, god mothers, mother in laws, and all the other maternal figures out there.. but especially to mine!

📷
📍

04/04/2024

Some cozy fall wedding vibes for your viewing pleasure on this wintery spring day. Snow in April?! Glad I'm going to be on an island in the Caribbean for the next 11 days!

Photos by the incredibly talented 📷 Thanks for sharing!!

Michaila + Jacob | October 2023
Cake: .sweets
Catering + Bartending:
Coordination: Curated by Crooked Window
DJ:
Florals:
Hair + Makeup:
Officiant: Ceremonies by Daphne Trees
Photography:
Rentals:
Venue:
Videography:

03/24/2024

The way these two love each other is just *chefs kiss.* It was beautiful to witness the way they look at each other with eyes full of adoration, the way they are constantly looking out for each other, and the way that each others' presence fills both of them with joy.

Photos by the incredibly talented 📷 Thanks for sharing!!

Michaila + Jacob | October 2023
Cake: .sweets
Catering + Bartending:
Coordination: Curated by Crooked Window
DJ:
Florals:
Hair + Makeup:
Officiant: Ceremonies by Daphne Trees
Photography:
Rentals:
Venue:
Videography:

03/07/2024

V + D's wedding day was the PERFECT example of a wedding day that FEELS like the couple.

Complete with beautiful mid-century modern furniture pieces from their collection at home, stained-glass flower centerpieces crafted by the groom + family, Greenbean (the groom's vintage, heirloom truck), a gorgeous cape crafted by the bride herself, their favorite cocktails & brews, live music, locally grown flowers, and more..

This wedding was nothing short of iconic, and I am so grateful to have been part of it!

Vendor team:
Bartending:
Catering:
Coordination:
DJ: .nc
Florals:
Hair Stylist: .willow.boone
Photographer:
Transportation:
Venue:

01/23/2024

January is always a time of reflection for me, both personally and professionally. When I look back on 2023, I couldn't be more proud of what I accomplished with Curated by Crooked Window.

I met my stretch growth goal in my first full year of business. I met some of the most incredible couples and worked with so many wonderful vendors. I hosted a magnificent Q***r Content Day that will live rent free in my mind forever. I traveled all over the beautiful state of North Carolina. I overcame some GIANT obstacles. I celebrated, I stressed, I cried, I rejoiced. The year was more than I ever could have dreamed of. If I had to sum it up into one word, it'd be: grateful.

I look forward to doing everything all over again in 2024, but better. I'm going out with a BANG, y'all. 🥳

As sad as I am to "close my books" after this year - I know that this is what I need to do for myself, personally. My business thrived in 2023, but my personal life was stretched thin. There are only so many weekends in a year, and even fewer weekends in "wedding season."

In 2025, I'm choosing to do more for my soul and less for my business. I'm choosing sunny summer days on the river and beautiful fall moments among the trees. I'm choosing time spent on hobbies and with loved ones. I'm choosing lazy "rot" weekends whenever I want/need them.

To all my '22, '23, and '24 couples - thank you for giving me the opportunity to grow and nurture Curated by Crooked Window. Thank you for entrusting me with your special day. Thank you for allowing me to celebrate your love. My cup runneth over with gratitude. 🫶

Photo by the lovely

01/19/2024

What a dreamy October wedding day 🤍

| Ashton + Knight |

Bartending:
Catering:
Coordination: Curated by Crooked Window
DJ:
Florals:
Hair Stylist: Caitlyn Keziah
Photo:
Venue:

12/14/2023

Hey lovelies!

If you're hoping to book me as your wedding coordinator in 2024, NOW is the time! I have very limited availability remaining on my 2024 books.

Andddd I've decided that I won't be opening my books for 2025. The decision wasn't an easy one to make, but it is one I had to make to stay aligned with my personal goals.

That means that 2024 is your last chance to work with me. 🥹

I've got availability for ONE MORE (High Country area) Saturday or Sunday weddings in 2024. However, these months are fully booked: April, May, June, September, October. Inquire through my website (link in bio) if you're looking to snag my remaining availability!

Cheers, y'all! 🫶

Photo by the lovely Fur and Lace Photo

11/24/2023

'Tis the season of gratitude and I'm finding myself incredibly grateful! 🙏

The past couple of years in business have been full of beautiful venues, wonderful vendor teams, and incredible couples.

I've witnessed some of the sweetest vows, some of the coolest surprises, some of the most unique traditions, and some very authentic personal touches.

Thank you to the couples who have entrusted their wedding day plans in my hands; to my vendor friends who have supported and encouraged me; to my clients and fellow vendors who have referred me to folks that they know; to my clients who have been so patient and understanding as I navigated the loss of my grandmother this month.

My cup is overflowing with gratitude. 💖

Cheers!
Kris

Photo by
Florals by

11/20/2023

The actual expression on my face when I get to work a dream couple's wedding with a dream team of vendors and my bestie gal on the most perfect fall day. No wonder I have a face full of smile lines!

More to come later from Virginia + Drew's incredibly authentic and intentional wedding day.

Bartending:
Catering:
Coordination: Curated by Crooked Window
DJ: .nc
Florals:
Hair Stylist: .willow.boone
Photographer:
Transportation:
Venue:

10/18/2023

Choosing where your special day will be hosted can be a very stressful choice to make. Here are my top 5 things to consider:

1) Location, Location, Location!
Will the majority of your guests be traveling from out of state? If so, you may want to consider venues within an hour of an airport.
Is the venue far enough from major roads, train depots, airports, etc.? A major noise disturbance in the middle of your vows can be VERY frustrating.
Is the venue close to residential areas? If so, you may be required to end the party early because of noise ordinances.

2) Pricing/Budget
Venues are typically one of the most expensive things in a wedding budget, so be prepared for large pricetags ($5k, *minimum* for a full, traditional wedding). Analyze what "extras" are included in the venue packages (tables, chairs, decor, accommodations, trash cleanup, etc) and consider the convenience of having those things included in your venue package versus having to contract ANOTHER vendor to meet those needs.

3) Vendor Policies
Does the venue require you to use their in-house catering and/or bartending services? Can you bring in your own vendors, or will you have to pick from their approved vendor list?

4) Booze Policies
Some venues allow full bars, others only allow beer and wine, and some don't allow booze at all. If you HAVE to have tacos and margs at your reception, you'll need to pick a venue that permits serving liquor.

5) Climate Conditions & Climate Control
Does the venue have HVAC or heat (depending on the season)? Are you able to safely utilize stand-up heaters? Is there a simple solution for a rain plan, or will you need to rent a tent?

Other things to consider - accessibility, capacity, pet policy, payment plans/options..
What other things would you add to the list?

Background photo by
Pictured: beautiful florals arranged by a bride's father

09/27/2023

One of my favorite things about being part of the wedding industry is that I get the pleasure of working with some really rad creatives (aka photographers, videographers, floral artists, hair & makeup artists, etc).

I get to watch them grow and evolve in their craft.

I get to be smothered in an Instagram feed full of gorgeous content.

I get to refer my clients to them, knowing they'll be getting the best of the best; knowing that I've got solid referrals for all of the style preferences and visions of my clients.

First photo by Mountain Light Studio (September 2023)
Second photo by Fur and Lace Photography (October 2022)
Venue Old Orchard Creek Farm

09/26/2023

S+J's wedding day was SOOO lovely! Here are a few of my favorite things about the day:

- Their personal vows mirrored each other's perfectly, but neither of them knew ahead of time what the other's vows would include. It made it obvious to everyone that the love these two share is authentic.

- Their wedding party was SO supportive and helpful. They were constantly offering me cold water, food, and company. Sometimes wedding days can be very lonely for me, but I never once felt alone on this day! As the night wound down, I even got to join them on the dancefloor for a few songs!

- The vendor team was incredible. The weather threw us a few surprises, some of which caused a bit of a timeline delay. The vendor team worked together seamlessly to keep things flowing beautifully. The hair and makeup artists did an outstanding job and brought some much needed high vibe energy to the early morning HMUA start times. Paula, the owner of the venue, was an absolute superstar to work with. Our DJ, Ashley, did a stellar job of keeping the party going and keeping guests informed about what was happening when. The photographer, Michelle, eagerly hopped in the ATV to ride up to the mountaintop for sunset photos despite the looming thunderstorm. The catering was DELICIOUS and their staff was wonderful to work with. The transportation team was so chill and the guests loved having that option, especially here in Ashe Co where we have approximately zero Ubers. I'm so stoked to work weddings this fall with some of these incredible vendors!

Photo courtesy of

Caterer & Bartending:
Coordinator:
DJ:
Hair Stylist:
Makeup Artist:
Officiant: High Country Ministers
Transport: Eventive Transportation
Venue:

09/05/2023

Last weekend's rainy weather combined with the forecast for another rainy weekend coming up has me wishing I could relive this beautiful April day all over again. I’ll never not get in my feels when I think about this day.

It was arguably one of the most logistically challenging weddings I'll probably ever work, even before a hurricane decided to enter the chat. The beautiful venue was a marsh-front, 4 story Airbnb rental with limited parking, a tiny 2-person elevator, and a very narrow staircase. The Airbnb had hosted smaller weddings there before, but we had about 20 or so more guests than the previous weddings did.

We'd originally planned to do EVERYTHING outside.. and then a hurricane hit. SO MUCH rain and cold air came along with it. It foiled all of our original plans, but the back-up plan was executed seamlessly thanks to the chillest couple ever, their wonderful friends + family, an amazing vendor team, and a little (okay, a lot) of ingenuity and determination.

It turned out to be the most beautiful wedding I’ve ever witnessed. The love that S+B share is so REAL, so raw, so true.. It shined so bright in their eyes, in their smiles.. Despite the raging storm.

Since I cannot time travel and actually relive this wedding day, I am extending a super special “pay what you can” FULL PLANNING PACKAGE offer to one couple. Here’s the fine print:

The couple must have a guest list with 45 or fewer guests, must be getting married in the Boone NC area (or be willing to pay a travel fee) in 2024**, must be having their wedding day at a “non-traditional” venue (backyards, Airbnb’s, arcade, diner, etc - anything other than a chapel, wedding/event venue, or church), and must be able to pay a $150 retainer for my services. The balance due will be negotiated based on the couple’s vision and budget, but will not exceed 75% of my 2024 pricing for this package ($1,575). First couple to inquire, pay the retainer, and sign a contract gets the deal. If you know someone who is engaged, madly in love, and seeking a unique, intimate wedding - please send them my way!

** Must be a weekend that I am not already booked AND/OR in a month that I am not already fully booked. See comments for unavailable dates. **

Photos by

08/07/2023

Honeymoon tips from a wedding professional & 2022 bride:

🤑 Add a honeymoon fund to your wedding registry. Look for one with no/minimal fees, electronic transfer options, and something mobile friendly. Ask your wedding planner for recommendations!
🗓️ Give yourself some time between your wedding day and honeymoon! You WILL be SO tired the day(s) after your wedding. Delayed honeymoons ensure that you've had time to recoup from wedding day exhaustion.
🧳 Travel agents are a great way to reduce stress and ensure that you're getting the BEST deal. Most professional travel agents don't charge for their services.
📵 Turn your phone to "airplane mode" and be FULLY present with your new spouse.

📍Puerto Rico

***rownedsmallbusiness

08/03/2023

Ties aren't everyone's cup of tea, and that's okay!

When I first met Ollie to chat about modeling for my Q***r Content Day, I noticed that they were wearing a bandana around their neck. I instantly knew that I would style them with an ascot instead of a tie and I was SO excited to share the world of ascots with them! I couldn't think of a better accessory for bandana loving folks!

Some other fun tie alternatives:
- Bolo ties
- Collar clips
- Neck bows
- Jewelry chains
- Scarves

Which alternative is your favorite?!

Photo by the lovely
Venue:
Model: Ollie | .snail_is.fast
Styled by

***rownedsmallbusiness

08/02/2023

Waxy Wednesday Tip! 🕯️

Have you ever wondered how folks manage to get tapered candles to stay straight up and in place alllll night long?

There are many different methods out there, but here's a few of the best (& easiest) tricks:

1) Heat the bottom of the candle over the candle holder with a wand lighter until the wax gets sticky and a little drippy. Once the wax gets sticky, quickly place the candle in the desired position and hold it for a few seconds while the wax dries.

2) Put a glue dot or a little hot glue on the bottom of each candle before placing them in the holders.

3) Wrap the bottom of each candle with transparent floral tape (with the "sticky" side facing out so that it will stick to the candle holder) or double sided tape.

If you're renting your candle holders, be sure to check with the rental company before following any of these tips. Some companies may require you to remove glue dots, tape, wax, etc. before returning the rentals.

Photos by
Venue:
Catering:
Rentals: +
Couple: Rebecca + Cat

***rwedding ***rownedsmallbusiness

07/27/2023

You can find me (& my couples) where the wild things grow. ✌️💖

Photo: Wild Marie Photography
Couple: Hollis + Ollie
Venue: Wild One Acres
Gown: Birchwood Bridal

***rwedding ***rownedsmallbusiness

07/18/2023

Cat + Becca are arguably the best example of "it's all in the details" that I've ever seen.

From Cat's custom suit, to Becca's perfectly curated accessories. The choreographed first dance, the signage, the decor, the signature cocktail, the wedding party gifts.. It was all INCREDIBLE.

I'll share more about these two another day because Instagram decided not to post my love letter to them that I tried to post yesterday. 😏

Photos kindly provided by | Second shot by .bride.boudoir
Couple: .x +
Venue:
Video:
Florals:
HMUA:
Catering:
Tarot:
Rentals: +
DJ:
Day-Of Coordination: Curated by Crooked Window

***rwedding

07/11/2023

One of my favorite things about doing what I do is when I get to work alongside my love. There's nothing quite as rewarding as the feeling of knowing that we're crushing our goals, together.

With that being said, I'm headed into a new phase of my business. A more curated phase. One that will allow me more downtime to reap the rewards of what I've built with my love.

What does that mean for you?

For my current clients, it means more individualized support. It means that I'll probably have an assistant with me on your wedding day, whether you've paid for it as part of your package or not.

For prospective clients, it means:
- that I'll only take on your wedding if it's in the High Country area (Boone, West Jefferson, Wilkes, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, and Lenoir areas)
- an assistant will be included in all of my package options
- my prices will be slightly higher to accommodate the additional labor and creative energy that I'll be incorporating into planning + executing your wedding day
- I will no longer be offering full planning services for weddings with more than 50 guests

I'm so excited to dive into a more sustainable & rewarding workflow going forward. Love you all, and thanks for the support!

📷
📍 The White Crow

05/29/2023

As Pride Month approaches and corporate businesses change their logo to something rainbow inspired for 30 days...

I cannot help but to feel frustrated. Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community is more than a rainbow logo, merchandise with a rainbow on it, or silly advertising campaigns.

I'm even more frustrated to know that some companies are pulling Pride merch after receiving threats of violence. Other big companies are completely abandoning their LGBTQIA+ influencers.

Friends, I am here to remind you that Pride is 365 days in my world. As a q***r business owner, I will NEVER step down to accommodate people who are uncomfortable by q***r peoples' existence. I will NEVER ask you to tone down your q***r joy.

I WILL celebrate you, in June and in EVERY other month. I will curate your wedding day with the same joy and passion that I curated my own. I will work diligently to ensure that everyone who plays a role in your wedding day is someone who shares our values, respects our challenges, and celebrates our diversity.

With love,
Kris

Photo: Raven Shutley Studios
Venue: Wild One Acres
Florals: The Pearl And The Petal
Cake: Dom Bakeries North Carolina
Rentals: Miss Match Rentals
Planning: Curated by Crooked Window

***rownedsmallbusiness ***rwedding 🌈

05/22/2023

Hey loves, meet Lola!! I'm so excited to have such a passionate and brilliant human as my right hand gal!

She'll be providing additional day-of support for some of my 2023 weddings. She's got the same "see a need, meet the need" mentality as I do, which is one of the main reasons that I asked her to come on board with me this year. Lola is authentic, professional, and so cheerful. I know y'all will appreciate having her around as much as I do!

It's not too late to book my new assistant add-on option for your 2023/2024 event!

Photo by my love, Crooked Window Photography 💖📷

05/08/2023

This champagne tower pic is serving MAJOR romance vibes 💖

Photo: Fur and Lace Photography
Bride & groom: Sunny & Brody
Coupe glasses: Party Suppliers & Rentals
Bartender: K38 / Tower 7 Catering

05/06/2023

When Sunny first reached out to me by email in 2022, I knew she'd be a perfect client for me. And I was right. 🤍

She knew exactly what she was looking for in a wedding planner and knew exactly how she wanted her wedding day to look & feel. Her only concern was making sure that nobody else's opinions overshadowed what her and Brody wanted their wedding day to be.

In a world where Pinterest, bridal magazines, TLC shows, and friends/families ALLLL love to tell us exactly how we should plan our wedding, it can certainly be a challenge to not let those opinions influence your wedding day.

But that's exactly why having a wedding planner, coordinator, or planning coach can be beneficial. I am here to ensure that every decision made is made because YOU want it to be, not because your parents or Pinterest want it to be.

Some sweet ways Sunny, Brody, and I worked together to keep their wedding day authentic to them:
- A rosary belonging to one of Brody's matriarchs was tied around Sunny's bouquet to honor his Catholic heritage 📿
- They bought string lights and a disco ball for the dancefloor after the quote from the lighting company came in WAY over budget. Brody and his friends hung it all themselves, sitting on top of each other's shoulders at one point. 🤣
- Sunny's dad made ALL of the floral arrangements. The bouquets, boutonnieres, table arrangements, ceremony arrangements, garlands for the ceremony and reception space... And they were some of the most beautiful florals I've ever seen.
- Their friend crafted a custom wedding sign for them. Another friend crafted the disco frame.
- Their dog, Hurley, played a role in almost every part of the day.
- They purchased a custom surf board for their guest book, which will eventually be a decor staple in their home.
- The cake was funfetti. Gluten free funfetti for our GF bride. And it was one of the best cakes I've ever had!!
- Skate deck seating charts!! The perfect way to incorporate their shared interest in skateboarding.

So much love for these two. 🤍✌️

📷: Fur and Lace Photography & Tasha

05/05/2023

There isn't anything better than doing things you love, for people you love, with people you love. I couldn't dream up a more perfect couple and vendor team to kick off the 2023 wedding season with. 🤍

Photos by the lovely Fur and Lace Photography & Tasha; assisted by Kaneisha
Bride & Groom: Sunny & Brody
Florals by Sunny's father
Crystal decor pieces & goblets: HoneyBee Vintage Rentals
Tent, table, & chair rentals: Party Suppliers & Rentals
Hair and makeup: Honey + Thyme Events & D Semansky Hair
Videography: Crooked Window Photography
DJ: Island Sound
Venue: Seascape Properties
Cake: Gluten Free by the Sea
Rehearsal dinner caterer: Trolley Stop
Reception caterer: K38 Baja Grill & Tower 7

Curated by Crooked Window