Vendors I Love: Sarah from SMALL SHINDIGS
photo by Ally & Bobby
Weddings during COVID have forced us to think small. However, Sarah Carroll was ahead of the game! I love that she already catered to intimate events, and has such a vast amount of knowledge of the importance of the details. I also appreciate the calmness she brings to wedding planning and of course to the Big…or Small Day! Without further ado, I am so excited to introduce you to Sarah Carroll of SMALL SHINDIGS!
What was the path that led you to become a planner?
I have been in the event industry itself for over a decade. I started my career in hospitality and worked on the venue side in NYC for a hotel and restaurant group, then the New Museum. I eventually moved into the tech world and planned corporate and marketing events.
I've always loved bringing people together and found that more and more, I gravitated towards social settings versus corporate functions. I wanted to plan gatherings that really mattered and were celebrations of love and togetherness. Even more specifically, I find in my personal life the events that I get the most enjoyment out of intimate gatherings. I had a lot of experience in all different facets of the event world and thought it was finally time to start my own company doing what I love most. I started Small Shindigs 3.5 years ago in San Francisco. This year, my husband and I moved back to the east coast where I continue to love what I do.
What excites you about weddings?
The idea of two families coming together to celebrate love is so special. I love being able to bring two people's visions to life and create a wedding that truly reflects who they are as a couple.
photo by Par La Mer
What do you look for in a couple?
I look for a couple that is genuinely excited about the marriage part of the wedding. Also, most of the couples I work with are looking to create an experience for their guests, not just themselves. When you're having an intimate wedding, the people you choose to invite are the most important people in your life. So, you want to make sure to honor them and make it a memorable affair. At the end of the day, it's not about a particular style, but about trust. If a couple trusts me to have their best interests at heart, I know we'll get along great!
What is the greatest compliment you’ve ever received?
"You're so calm!" I pride myself on being very level-headed and relaxed. There is so much excitement and adrenaline on a wedding day, that I like to bring a calm energy. It helps me work better, and allows me to pass some of that onto my couples.
photo by Evangeline Lane
What do you desire for your business?
I just want to keep working with amazing couples! I feel so fortunate to work in one of the most beautiful and vibrant areas of the country so if I can continue to plan intimate weddings in nature-filled locations, I'll be happy.
What are you grateful for?
I'm so grateful that I was able to step out on my own, and start a company that I’m passionate about.
Any recent cause for celebration or a recent victory?
I've recently planned a few weddings in less than 6 weeks time. I am so glad that during all of this uncertainty, I'm able to bring a smile to people's faces even for one day. And allow them to make their love official! Oh, and my husband and I just bought a house. We are very excited!
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