Vendors I Love: MORTON STREET EVENTS
photo by Karen Obrist Photography
I met Anita working for another planner, and I loved her positivity and the way she organized all of the details. So of course, I was so excited when she decided to go out on her own. Without further ado, here’s my interview with Anita Pandian from MORTON STREET EVENTS!
What was the path that led you to become a planner?
I was born and raised in Texas where I attended Southern Methodist University and received a degree in Psychology. Despite my studies, I had always loved fashion and relocated to New York shortly after graduating to start a career in fashion public relations. I fell in love with events while planning runway shows, store openings and press dinners so after working in public relations for several years, I decided to make the move into events full-time. After emailing pretty much every New York City wedding planner I could find on the internet, I finally found someone who was willing to give me a shot as an assistant. While I had previous event experience, by freelancing for her I was able to learn the ins and outs of weddings. That degree in psychology comes in handy more than you'd think!
photo by Khaki Bedford Photography
Why Morton Street? Can you tell me more about the name?
Morton Street is the street I live on in the West Village and where my business was born! Most of the residents on the block have lived here for years. I've been in the neighborhood for 12 years myself, and everyone knows each other. We have block parties and mini concerts on the street pretty regularly and my neighbors have become like a second family to me. When I first started my business, I knew I didn't want to name it after myself. However I still wanted to select something that was a big part of my life and something that was important to me. I thought Morton Street was perfect! It's also coincidentally one of the most popular streets in the West Village for engagement and wedding photos. I run into photographers I know all the time!
What excites you about weddings?
I know it’s corny but what’s better than love? It’s so meaningful to me that I get to be such a large part of one of the most memorable and special days in someone's life. I love knowing that my clients can look back on their weddings and remember it as an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Rather than remembering how much work it was. And who doesn’t love a great party?!
What do you look for in a couple?
Mainly communication, kindness and a willingness to collaborate. When first speaking with a couple, I know almost immediately if we are going to mesh or not. If they’re people I wouldn’t mind getting a drink with, that certainly doesn’t hurt.
photo by Orpen Film Co.
What is the greatest compliment you’ve ever received?
I recently had a bride tell me that it felt like she was the only bride I was working with. This was during peak wedding season and I was working 1-2 weddings a week at that point, so it was a huge boost of confidence for me. Another couple would refer to me as their “guardian angel” which I always got a kick out of. And having random wedding guests tell me throughout the night that I’m doing a great job, is always one of my favorites.
What do you desire for your business?
I have freelanced for other planners for many years, and am so excited to make a name for myself and see my own business grow. I hope to continue to work with couples looking for something unique and non-traditional.
photo by Loreto Caceres Photography
What are you grateful for?
To be able to make a living doing a job I enjoy so much is something I’m extremely grateful for. I still have to pinch myself sometimes! I am also so lucky to have found an amazing community of planners and vendors who have been so supportive of my career and who I’ve learned so much from.
Any recent cause for celebration?
A few of my recent weddings were featured on The Knot, Over the Moon and Carats & Cake!
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