Nicole Marshall Brock's Journey to Becoming a Wedding Planner
Nicole’s journey into wedding and event planning began in 2019 when she planned her own wedding. She discovered a deep love for organizing and coordinating events, and her natural ability to connect with people made the experience even more fulfilling. In 2020, when everything came to a standstill due to the pandemic, Nicole’s passion for event planning was reignited in 2021 when her sister-in-law got married. The wedding was so well-organized that the photographer took notice and asked for Nicole’s contact information. Though Nicole humbly responded, “I am just her sister-in-law,” this moment sparked her ambition.
In 2022, Nicole planned her best friend’s wedding, which solidified her decision to pursue wedding planning as a career. At that time, she was considering a career in makeup artistry and worked at Ulta. However, after taking a class by Joy Loveless and witnessing Joy’s passion for makeup, Nicole realized she did not share the same enthusiasm. This epiphany, combined with encouragement from her friends and family and the flexibility it offered to spend time with her young son, led her to commit fully to wedding planning.
Tailored Wedding Planning Services
Nicole offers a range of wedding planning services to cater to different needs and budgets.
Full Planning
From start to finish, Nicole is there for you. She handles everything from calling venues and vendors to checking availability and scheduling appointments. Nicole can attend meetings with you or on your behalf, recording them and sending you the details if you can’t make it. All packages include 10 hours of event management on the day of your event. Additionally, Nicole offers custom package building for clients who need something uniquely tailored for their wedding planning needs.
Partial Planning
Starting six months before the wedding, this package includes a checklist and budget management files similar to the full planning package. However, Nicole won’t be making all the phone calls and scheduling the meetings.
Photos by: Mackenna D photography
Day-of Coordination
This service begins eight weeks before the wedding to assess needs and plan for setup and takedown. Nicole will be there for 10 hours on the wedding day, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
À la Carte Options
Nicole can also help you build your wedding website and update information as needed. Additionally, she offers several different a la carte options as add-ons with any of her packages or custom packages. These options include services like guest book design, rehearsal dinner assistance, décor storage, card box rental, and shower assistance, along with plenty more!
Nicole's Unforgettable Friday the 13th Wedding Adventure
One of Nicole’s most memorable weddings was on Friday the 13th. Despite waking up with a fever and feeling very ill, she showed up at the venue and ensured everything was perfect for the bride. The wedding was supposed to be a rooftop event at the Moonrise Hotel, but there was a risk of rain. The bride insisted on having it on the rooftop, and Nicole made it happen, even if standing in the rain was necessary to ensure the bride’s vision was realized. Fortunately, the rain stopped three hours before the wedding, allowing them to set up the chairs and proceed with the beautiful rooftop ceremony.
Photos by: Lyndsay J+ Photographer
Finding a Wedding Planner Who Syncs with Your Style
Nicole stresses the importance of choosing a wedding planner whose personality compliments yours, especially for day-of coordination. This becomes even more crucial for full planning, as you will be interacting with them more frequently and in greater depth. While compatibility is vital for all aspects of the wedding, it is particularly essential in full planning. Having an efficient planner who collaborates well with other vendors is critical. Nicole recommends having virtual or in-person meetings with potential planners to ensure a good fit.
Mastering Your Wedding Budget
Nicole points out that many couples often underestimate their budget, especially for items like stationery and flowers. She recommends having a transparent conversation with everyone contributing financially to prevent misunderstandings. A wedding planner can be instrumental in helping you stick to your budget and manage the minor details that can add up. Nicole reminds couples that, despite needing to consider the opinions of those who are financially involved, it is ultimately your special day. She encourages couples to relish the wedding planning process and not let stress overshadow the joy of their engagement.
Seamless Planning Starts Here
Nicole starts by asking for the wedding date and checks her availability. She then sets up a virtual meeting to go over a questionnaire and determine the couple’s needs. Based on this, she recommends a package and sends a proposal outlining the details, including a 25% non-refundable deposit and flexible payment options. Once the contract is signed, the planning begins, with Nicole handling vendor and venue coordination.
Favorite Aspects of Planning
Nicole loves working with couples and getting to know them. She enjoys networking with other vendors, making wedding days feel like working with friends. Learning new things about the industry and different people’s perspectives keeps her passion alive.
Unveiling the Ultimate Partnership
Nicole offers an exclusive partnership with Johnnie Brock’s Dungeon, providing her clients with a 20% discount on everything in the store besides balloons and Mardi Gras beads. She has access to the businesses vendors, allowing her to secure items at wholesale prices, offering significant savings to her clients.
Read more about this deal in Nicole’s blog: Nicole Knows: Spread the LOVE… and the SAVINGS!
Balancing Work and Family
Nicole is currently in her “family era,” cherishing time with her family, taking walks with her son, and enjoying outdoor activities. She values her monthly girls’ nights and still works occasionally at Ulta, which she considers her “me time.”
Nicole: Your Premier Wedding and Event Planner
Nicole’s dedication, passion, and unique connections make her a standout wedding and event planner, committed to making every couple’s day special.
Stay tuned for more features on the best local wedding vendors in our upcoming blog posts. Whether you’re just starting your wedding planning journey or looking for those final touches, we’re here to help you every step of the way!
Happy Planning! – Chelsey