Josie joined our team in 2018 and I am so glad to have her as a member of Swoon Soiree. She has a passion for art, design, and theatre, which has come in so handy during production setups and with all of the behind the scenes that go into running successful events. When she is not on a Swoon Event she is assisting other planners, working with florists, and shadowing some of the industries finest event professionals. She is learning this wild and crazy industry, that we love, at a rapid pace.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
One thing on my bucket list is to go para-sailing – probably not a big deal to most thrill-seekers, but I actually am quite afraid of that feeling of falling (i.e. rollercoasters). It’s on my list to simultaneously conquer a fear and also see a beautiful view being higher up than usual.
What would you most like to learn and why?
I would LOVE to learn more languages and continue my world explorations (thanks to my military family for jumpstarting me young!). I believe the most stunning ideas and visions come from the precious moments spent being vulnerable, open-minded, and engulfed in learning about new people and places.
How do you spend your free time?
I spend my free time listening to new music, snuggling my pup, and sipping on some early grey tea with a splash of soy milk and honey!
What is your perfect vacation?
My perfect vacation includes my SO or a friend to share it with. Preferably cool weather or beach access, somewhere with stunning skies and sunsets, and natural beauty are always a plus! If I can include something arts or design related (a performance, museum, etc.), then I’m all set!
What is one of the most interesting things about you?
I am half-German and am fluent in the language! Similarly, I’m a linguaphile and in love with all things language and speech related (hence my double majors from UVA, voice & speech pathology!)
What is your favorite season? Why?
Fall, fall, fall! For starters, I’m definitely a cold-weather type of person, but I also love the rich and vibrant colors and palettes that come with the changing season. Fall and winter are the two most beautiful seasons in Virginia!
Do you have pets? If so what kind and their name?
I have a sweet little beagle-lab mix named Willow, more lovingly called Willie, who shares her reign over the apartment with my bunny, Luna.
What is your favorite holiday? Why?
New Years Eve – It’s not only a time when people feel empowered and refreshed with the hopefulness of the new year, but its an extremely unifying time filled with sparkle and joy that most of the world celebrates together (give or take a few hours)!
What is your favorite part of the planning process?
The moment when you see the couple slowly letting go of the pressure & stress, which naturally occurs with once-in-a-lifetime events like this, and just begin to enjoy each other and celebrating with their dearest friends and family. Thats what we at Swoon Soiree are here for – to ensure that you get your moment of “okay… we can breathe now… the Swoon girls have got this,” while you dance the rest of the glittery night away.
What advice do you have for a newly engaged couple?
Make it your own – include something memorable or special to just you that will stand out in your memories forever alongside everything else on the whirlwind day. I’m a fan of multicultural touches that truly represent what you and your partner treasure individually, and how those two seemingly different (or similar) lifestyles, passions, and backgrounds can come together to form something nouveau and beautiful.
To get in touch with Josie contact her here.
