We’re double dipping for this month’s She Makes Honey Moves post, featuring the mother-daughter duo behind Wren & Chick Events, Hannah Howle and Jennifer White! The biz was sparked from their mutual love of party planning, floral arranging, and Say Yes to the Dress. Based in Charleston and Fort Mill, they branch all over South Carolina covering event coordination/planning, floral design and venue scouting!
Q: Why should couples hire a planner?
Hannah: My only regret from my own wedding was not hiring a coordinator. I had an amazing wedding day, but my poor mom got stuck making sure the floor plan was correct, the centerpieces looked right, the gifts were loaded, and the timeline was followed. That’s one of the reasons we started our business–we never want any of our couples (or their parents) to feel like they have to work on wedding day!
Jennifer: We know firsthand how much a couple’s wedding day means to them and how much time and effort (not to mention money!) goes into making it the event of their dreams. Having a professional planner who really listens to what’s important to them is critical in making sure that the couple and their families can relax and truly enjoy their dream day. We can also provide guidance on what we’ve seen that works well and some things that they may want to rethink based on our experience. Ultimately it’s their day and we just get to be the ones to make it happen!
Q: What is one thing you would omit from weddings?
Hannah: Fake flowers…I’m a sucker for some gorgeous (& always real!) blooms!
Jennifer: Cookie cutter ceremonies and receptions. I love when couples put their own special touch on their day and have a celebration that reflects who they are.
Q: You’re attending a wedding/event. What details stand out to you the most?
Hannah: The flow of an event is always super important to us as planners. I hate awkward moments or when things feel rushed. Also, a good DJ or band is KEY to an amazing event!
Jennifer: Rather than the details I always think about the overall feel of the event. As we plan it’s always in my mind about how the guests will feel at the end of the night…were they fed well, was the music good, was the temperature comfortable, was there an overall feeling of love and celebration?
Q: Why do you do what you do?
Hannah: I have worked in weddings since I was in high school and have always loved the excitement that comes with wedding days. We are so honored when any couple chooses us to be a part of their big day–it’s such a special time and SO much fun! Knowing that the bride and groom, plus their family and friends are able to relax and just soak in such an important day is very important to us. I think you truly have to have a servant’s heart to enjoy this crazy job, but it’s by far the most rewarding thing we’ve ever had the pleasure of doing.
Jennifer: I have always loved entertaining and decorating, and weddings are the ultimate entertaining and decorating event! It’s the highest compliment to be invited into one of the most special days in someone’s life. We form lasting friendships with our clients and are always excited to see where their journey together will take them.
Q: What is the best part of being a planner?
Hannah: Just being a part of someone’s big day is so special. There are so many sweet moments tucked into a wedding day (first looks, father-daughter dances, funny speeches, getting ready moments) and it’s just so life-giving to be around.
Jennifer: I think for me being able to get through the unexpected hiccups without anyone realizing anything went awry is so gratifying. I love our drives home when we list each of our “best things” that happened that evening. I also love when we get a sincere thank you or compliment from an unexpected person at the end of the event.
Q: What is the worst part of being a planner?
Hannah: Sparkler exits with a drunk crowd can always get a bit interesting…and scary. But the photos are always worth it!
Jennifer: Unpacking my vehicle the next day is always the worst…wishing I could hire that part out!
Q: Bright pops or neutrals?
Hannah: Neutrals usually, but I love color for Summer!
Jennifer: I’m also a neutral gal but I love to bring in pops of color with beautiful floral arrangements.
Q: City or country?
Hannah: I enjoy the relaxed pace of the country.
Jennifer: I love the country and the peacefulness I feel when I’m away from the hustle and bustle.
Summer or winter?
Hannah: I’m definitely a winter girl and cannot stand being hot–but I do love the Carolina beaches in the summer!
Jennifer: I enjoy summer and sitting on the beach under my umbrella watching the waves.
Going out or staying in?
Hannah: I’m totally a homebody and would prefer takeout and Netflix with my husband & pups 9 times out of 10.
Jennifer: I love going out but am probably a little more of a homebody most of the time.
Q: Anything else you’d like to share?!
Hannah: I think having gone through planning my own wedding in March 2018 really helps me connect with couples. I remember the excitement and stress of getting everything done and can really relate to our brides and everything they’re feeling. My mom is in the same boat and can help put parents’ minds at ease when thinking about the financial obligations that come with wedding planning, as well as the emotions that come with sending your son or daughter down the aisle. We are unique in being a mother-daughter team and know each other so well–she’s my built in best friend and I honestly can’t imagine running a business with anyone else!
Jennifer: Agreed – I think our unique mother-daughter and business partner relationship gives us a special insight into what brides and their mothers are feeling and how to best serve them. I can’t imagine running this business with anyone else. I love how we work seamlessly together and know that I have the best business partner and best friend ever!!
We collaborated with Wren & Chick Events for a styled shoot in 2020 and look forward to more adventures to come! Be sure to check out their amazing work on Instagram or via their website.