Hi there!
Our passionate team of wedding specialists are eager to transform your wedding vision from plans into reality. As a boutique company, each of our clients work directly with one planner or coordinator, but are afforded the benefits of the combined skillset of a collaborative team ensuring every detail is paid the utmost attention. We take the time to get to know our clients, shaping every planning and coordination experience to meet the individual needs of our clients. Whether you are seeking support throughout your entire wedding planning journey, simply need someone to step in on the day-of to bring your own hard work to fruition, or require something in between, we are here to organize, communicate, and execute your vision, always minding the details. When the unexpected occurs, our team confidently advocates in your best interest, approaching challenges with solutions and vendors with compassion. Meet our team below!
Photo credit: @mattcaliphotography
Hi, I’m Alexa
The Wedding Planner LA Founder | Lead Wedding Planner
My style
I love the wedding planning process as much as I love actual wedding days; a rare passion that I have harnessed and molded into a sturdy foundation on which my expertise and skill can shine confidently and consistently! Together, we will not only create a celebration of love that reflects your own unique personality, but also embark on a wedding planning experience that is tailored to you as an individual. To accomplish this, I take the time to connect with and learn about you, adjusting my approach to planning your wedding to be the best support system possible for your unique needs.
As your wedding planner, I spearhead all of the more challenging and time consuming elements of wedding planning like task management & tracking, vendor research & sourcing, budget mapping & tracking, and working through day of logistics to alleviate the pressure of wedding planning. Through years of experience I have developed organizational tools, resources, and systems that allow my clients to be as involved or removed from the wedding planning process while still ensuring your wedding day comes together in a way that reflects you. While I offer a few wedding planning packages to meet client needs, the care, effort, and consideration I provide is consistent.
When the last song has played and the guests have all departed, you will have more than just an incredible celebration of your love to reflect on, but the wonderful memories of a positive wedding planning experience, too!
On a Personal NOTe
I grew up in Gainesville, Fl before moving to Tallahassee, Fl to attend Florida State University. It was here that I first dipped my toes into the wedding industry- not as a planner, but a DJ! I was so nervous leading up to the first wedding, but when the day came I was hooked before the “I do’s!” The emotion, the celebration, the beauty; I’d been allowed into a most precious moment of these strangers’ lives and, as everyone danced and made memories around me, I knew I’d found a new sort of happy place.
After my husband (then boyfriend) and I graduated in 2014 we packed up our dogs and headed for Los Angeles. I was eager to use my degree and began my career as a Behavior Therapist and Early Intervention Specialist, though I continued DJing nearly every weekend, too. Occasionally I’d DJ weddings where no professional coordination team had been hired. Armed with only a timeline and microphone I was all too eager to take over certain basic coordinating responsibilities. Even though those experiences barely scratched the surface of all that wedding coordination- let alone wedding planning- entails, they showed me another side to weddings that was usually not so visible from my DJ booth. From this new perspective the millions of details and efforts that take place behind the scenes were center stage, and it made me fall in love with weddings all over again.
After dabbling with an odd coordination gig here or there for a year, I officially quit my 9-5 job and turned my passion project into my full time career, officially launching The Wedding Planner LA. I could not have made a better choice! Over the years I’ve learned a lot (and continue to learn every day!), but one thing has stayed true: I LOVE planning weddings.
Outside of work, I love to travel always allowing my stomach to do the picking, which has led to some spectacular places! In my spare time I can usually be found chasing my toddler around, checking out local sushi spots, singing karaoke, or with my nose buried in a book. I love crafting and creating which is just one more reason I love wedding planning! When I can combine all of those elements together, I am truly in my happy place!
Cheers,
Alexa Farese | Wedding Planner
The Wedding Planner LA
theweddingplannerla@gmail.com
“I hired Alexa and her team way back in 2019 and they were with me every step of the way through 2 postponements. One part planner, one part fairy godmother and one part drill sergeant, The Wedding Planner LA knows how to get things DONE exactly the way you envisioned your special day to be. I had a lot of DIY elements in my wedding and TWPLA were extremely detailed oriented and executed my vision perfectly. I was making changes right up to the morning of the wedding and TWPLA were so amazing in gathering my disorganized thoughts and executing them perfectly. I was literally texting them from the makeup chair in the morning about small things that I had wanted changed and they got it done with no issues.”
“Alexa was phenomenal — we had a very large wedding that was closer to a concert or production than a typical wedding and I was nervous to find the right person who could execute all our sound and lighting cues on top of running the wedding, but Alexa and her team were amazing. The wedding had a million moving pieces that were executed flawlessly on the day and in the planning process Alexa helped us cover every detail and stay on track with our budget, and caught every single slip up and miscommunication. Highly recommend working with her, my only regret was not bringing her on before we even began looking at venues and vendors — she has a wealth of knowledge and expertise.”
“We booked Alexa for partial planning just under a year before our wedding. Since we were originally planning a larger wedding in a pretty bland space, we knew we’d need someone to help with design and decor. However, Alexa’s packages offered such amazing value that we went ahead with partial planning, and it was the best thing we could have done. We got to talk to Alexa on the phone pretty much every other week from when we booked her until the wedding, and she was in constant email communication as well. She read over all of our contracts, gave tons of vendor recommendations and managed a few of them for us without us having to do a thing, and was so, so patient with my endless questions and worrying over details. She even gave us pep talks when decisions were difficult or plans were derailed by the pandemic.”
Hi, I’m Dominique
Director of Operations | Lead Month of Coordinator
Photo credit: @mattcaliphotography
My Style
Wedding planning and coordinating allows me to put all of my unique skill sets to great use while working closely with my couples. Behind all the gorgeous photos, gowns, and flowers is lots of unseen hours spent organizing and planning; efforts I enjoy being a part of, just as much as the wedding day itself! I support my clients by making myself available to offer feedback, advice, thoughts, and recommendations, bounce ideas around, vent, or simply just talk about your wedding! Together, we work through all of the details to ensure everything is accounted for and I am fully prepared to lead your wedding team in creating your own unique vision. I look forward to spending time getting to know you and learning what “perfect wedding” means to you.
Wedding planning and coordination also offers the opportunity to utilize my experience with the arts to support the creative vision of my clients while fostering a focused, but relaxed environment where vendors’ talents are able to thrive! There are so many design and logistical details- big, small, and everything in between- that go into making your wedding a work of art, not just visually but in seamless orchestration of all elements. It is such a pleasure to work with my couples to create their own unique masterpiece!
I am fondly referred to as the “big sister” of our team and our couples. I have earned this title through consistently being a trustworthy advisor, a dedicated advocate, a motivational team leader, and a cheerleader to keep my couple’s spirits bright while they plan their special day. I am always in your corner and ready to advocate for you should you need support with vendors, contracts, or just general logistical mapping.
Even at the end of a 12 hour day, I find that I am energized by all of the love, beauty, and excitement from the day (sure my feet might disagree, but c’est la vie)! Every wedding is another opportunity to fall in love with my career all over again!
On a Personal Note
I was born and raised in the Valley in Los Angeles. After finishing my BA in Visual and Communication Arts at Franklin University Switzerland, I started working at CalArts in Admissions while I completed my MA degree in Humanities. I loved the event aspect of my job so much that I became interested in pursuing an event coordination career! I joined The Wedding Planner LA in 2019 where my love for events blossomed! Working with Alexa was a dream come true for me. I am a full time mom to my 5 sweet foster guinea pigs. On the rare weekend night I am not at a wedding (and plenty of weeknights in-between!) you can find me singing my heart out at Karaoke, enjoying romantic dinners with my husband, Matt, or curled up with a great book! I can’t wait to meet you and learn exactly what the “perfect wedding” means to you!
Best wishes,
Dominique Dunn | Director of Operations
The Wedding Planner LA
“If I could give five-thousand stars I would. I am so grateful for the work that Dominique and her team did in the 10+ months leading up to wedding day. We hired The Wedding Planner LA for Day-Of Coordination services but we got so much more - we had a particularly prickly venue, horrible communication, but Dominique was there every step of the way offering guidance, direction, and leadership. I would have been a mess with our her expert level services. Hands down the best decision we made.”
“Breathtaking does not even begin to describe the amazing work that Dominique and her team did. It’s been over a week since my wedding and I keep looking back at everything she did, starting from her day 1 thoughtful planning all the way through the final day of. Every step of the way she was communicative, sincere, and her attention to detail was second-to-none.”
“We felt SO grateful to find and work with The Wedding Planner LA, and specifically our lead coordinator, Dominique, for our wedding this year. I’m sure many brides will identify with feeling a bit in the dark when it comes to planning an event of this scale and navigating an industry most of us have never had experience with before, and to not only have Dominique and her team hold our hand and support us throughout all our questions, but to also be able to hand over control of the millions of moving pieces between vendors in the weeks leading up was absolutely INVALUABLE. ”
Hi, I’m Susana
LEAD DAY OF COORDINATOR
My Style
I believe weddings should feel timeless, filled with love, and beautifully curated to reflect each couple’s unique story. Beyond planning, I will be your biggest supporter every step of the way. I pride myself on being reliable, organized, and always cheering you on throughout the process. Whether it’s guiding you through decisions, handling last-minute details, or simply reminding you to soak in the moment, I’m here to make your wedding journey stress-free and filled with joy.
I’ve always loved the magic of weddings—the joy, the beauty, and the unforgettable moments. Creating beautiful, unforgettable moments is the ultimate celebration of love. I enjoy organizing, designing, and making sure every detail comes together perfectly. Wedding planning perfectly marries my creative and organizational skills allowing my couples the space to curate their dream weddings in a stress free environment. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the joy on a couple’s face, knowing I played a part in making their special day magical.
On a Personal Note
A little about me: I grew up in Santa Clarita Valley, California, and earned an AA degree in Early Childhood Education. Before wedding planning, I spent three years as a teacher. My husband and I have been together for ten years and married since 2019. In fact, my journey as a wedding planner began in 2019 when I planned my own wedding. I completely fell in love with the process and knew I wanted to do more. As our family grew, I decided to stay home with our 4 beautiful children for a few years, but my passion for wedding planning led me to start coordinating weddings. Since 2021, I have had the pleasure of working alongside Dominique and Alexa as their assistant, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in the industry. Through training and real-world experience, I have developed the skills and confidence to take on the role of lead day-of wedding coordinator.
Thank you so much!
Susana | Lead Coordinator
The Wedding Planner LA
Hi, I’m Leia
LEAD DAY OF COORDINATOR
My Style
As a highly empathetic leader, I thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments, seamlessly balancing strategy with a hands-on approach. I have a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding that success is built on clear communication, trust, and adaptability. My ability to quickly build rapport allows me to create a collaborative, stress-free experience for clients and vendors alike. With a focus on keeping the day running smoothly, I bring a calm, solutions-oriented mindset to ensure every wedding unfolds beautifully—no matter what surprises arise.
Weddings are about love, gratitude, and human connection, all of which are often missing in the corporate world. My ability to manage high-stakes situations, anticipate needs before they arise, and bring a sense of calm to chaotic moments makes wedding coordination not just a job, but a meaningful extension of my skill set.
On a Personal Note
I have an eclectic background, driven by my deep love of learning. After earning my Master’s from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, I spent nearly a decade as a regional theatre actor in the Midwest. But constant rejection and playing Tree #2—without any sign that the industry was a meritocracy—wasn’t for me. I pivoted to corporate America in New York City, starting as a receptionist at McKinsey’s Investment Office and working my way up to supporting and managing some of the country’s most prolific CEOs and business leaders.
In 2018, I moved to Los Angeles to be with the love of my life, who later became my charming husband. We married in 2019, and I took a job at an AmLaw 50 firm before transitioning into the startup world, eventually becoming a Chief of Staff. But something was missing. While my skills grew, the deeper I immersed myself, the more I realized my work didn’t align with my values. I was incredibly unhappy—and exhausted. Making a career shift felt daunting, especially after becoming so entrenched in private equity and real estate.
Then life threw me a curveball: my mother’s sudden passing shattered my world. Stepping away gave me the perspective to see how precious life is—and how far I had come. It also made one thing clear: I was long overdue for a massive change.
Coordinating the logistics of one of the most memorable days in a person’s life felt like a natural fit. Acting as an air traffic controller of sorts—much like I was in my previous career, but now in an industry that aligns with my values—turned out to be the change I needed.
I’m a California native who never thought I’d be back, but I’ve been lucky to call California home (again) for nearly seven years. I have a hard time sitting still—I’ve run seven full marathons and now walk around 50 miles a week to save my joints! I hit the gym 4-5 times a week and read 2-4 books a month. I also paint (mostly acrylic and mixed media on canvas) and spend much of my free time as a potter, working with various clay techniques. My husband, Braden, and I have recently gotten into pickleball, and we love it.
Beyond wedding coordination, I’m also involved in producing still and motion photo shoots, combining my organizational skills with my love for visual storytelling. When I’m not out and about, you’ll find me in the kitchen cooking a lavish meal with a craft cocktail in hand or unwinding with a great movie.
Thank you so much!
Leia | Lead Coordinator
The Wedding Planner LA
Hi, I’m Sophia
LEAD DAY OF COORDINATOR
My Style
Wedding planning and coordination brings together my passion for event planning and the reverence I have for heartfelt moments. It’s so rare we have an opportunity to be so vulnerable and celebrate surrounded by all our loved ones. The last thing anyone needs is to be weighed with unnecessary logistical stress! Supporting people so they can be free to experience and enjoy their wedding day is such a privilege, and I’m so grateful my skills, experience and passion allow me to do so! Wedding planning and coordination also offers me the opportunity to put my past skills as an International Touring Assistant to good use. I’m accustomed to spending every night of the week in a new venue with a new cast of characters and having to put on a show for tens of thousands of adoring fans. Now, I get to do so for couples and their loved ones! There are so many details that need to be kept track of that amount to a gorgeous final product, and I love to collaborate with my couples so their vision can come to life!
From supporting artists headlining Glastonbury to supporting couples on their wedding day, I love to lead with peace, precision, and poise. Allow me to take the details off your hands so you can dance, eat, and be merry! I take a hands-on, proactive approach with my clients, maintaining a steady presence to offer reassurance as well as my time-tested feedback and insights as you plan your wedding. I will make sure the I’s are dotted and T’s are crossed so that you can focus on the things that matter to you.
On a Personal Note
I was born and raised in Brooklyn NY. After graduating CalArts with a BFA in Acting, I traveled throughout Peru and Bolivia before settling back in NYC. There I worked for six years in office administration, arts administration, and creative direction before pursuing my MFA in Screenwriting at Brooklyn College. While earning my Masters I had the opportunity to work with Oscar-winning production companies like FilmNation, Killer Films and Market Road Films while planning my own New York Times featured wedding. I’m mom to a precious cat named Seymour.
In my free time I love to hike with my husband, Marcus, write, and go to the movies. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your special day!
I have always had a passion for bringing people together for a shared vision, whether that be for a creative endeavor or large scale event, especially a wedding! I spent over a decade working in office management and the entertainment industry. From traveling the world assisting bands on tour to organizing theatrical rehearsal teams, I love seeing people come together to create something larger than themselves. It was quite the epiphany when I realized my knack for event management could bolster my passion for bringing people together via wedding planning and coordination! I’m so excited to bring my love for event management to the most important day of a couples’ life (so far) - their wedding!
Cheers,
Sophia | Wedding Day-Of Coordinator
The Wedding Planner LA
Hi, I’m Kyra
LEAD DAY OF COORDINATOR
On a Personal Note
I was born and raised in South China and speak both Mandarin and Cantonese besides English. I moved to the U.S. for college, studying journalism at the University of Missouri, then earned my master’s in integrated marketing at Northwestern University. After living in Chicago for grad school and spending some time in Seattle for work, I’m now based in Los Angeles with my husband and our mini dachshund. I love traveling, visiting national parks, and spending time outdoors—especially hiking. I also enjoy cooking and making great Cantonese food. When I’m not planning weddings or exploring new places, I love going out and trying new experiences.
Planning my own wedding was one of the most personal and meaningful experiences of my life. It was a celebration of love, filled with intentional details and heartfelt moments that I will cherish forever. That experience made me realize how special it is to create a day that reflects a couple’s journey, and I knew I wanted to help others feel that same joy. Wedding planning allows me to combine my love for organization, creativity, and storytelling while pursuing my true passion. There’s nothing more fulfilling than bringing a couple’s vision to life and witnessing the happiness that comes from a beautifully planned celebration of love.
Cheers,
Kyra | Wedding Day-Of Coordinator
The Wedding Planner LA
My Style
I believe every couple has a unique love story, and I love bringing that to life through thoughtful designs, custom creations, and meaningful details that reflect their personalities. My wedding planning style is all about personalization and creativity. With a background in journalism and marketing, I aspire to bring a unique blend of storytelling, strategy, and creativity to wedding planning. My experience in photography, videography, graphic design, and interviewing has given me an eye for detail and a deep appreciation for capturing meaningful moments.
Planning my own destination wedding in Hawaii—filled with DIY projects and personal touches—solidified my love for creating unforgettable celebrations. As an incredibly organized person who thrives on planning and coming up with creative ideas, I’m passionate about helping couples turn their dream weddings into reality. From color palettes to décor elements, I focus on crafting a wedding that feels truly one-of-a-kind. Most importantly, I prioritize listening—understanding a couple’s vision, values, and dreams is the foundation of my planning process. By combining their story with my creative approach and meticulous attention to detail, I strive to design a wedding that not only looks beautiful but also feels deeply personal and unforgettable!
Every wedding should be a reflection of love, personality, and joy, and I’m here to make that happen with enthusiasm, precision, and heart. Let’s bring your vision to life and create a day you’ll cherish forever!
Hi, I’m Averie
Social Media Manager | LEAD DAY OF COORDINATOR
Photo Credit: @mattcaliphotography
My Style
I love that all couples have such distinct styles and ways they want to celebrate, and I feel such a passion for helping the vision come to life. There are many great parts of being a wedding planner (creativity, amazing vendors, unique elements that make each wedding different, etc.), but my favorite part of wedding coordinating is watching my couples have an incredible celebration of their love, and knowing that my team and I are keeping their day worry-free!
Anything to do with weddings just makes me so happy and full of life, and I want to bring a pep to your journey! I know planning can get so stressful and muddy, but I would love to help make things go smoothly and organize a plan for you to follow. Organization for a huge day like this can get so overwhelming, and I have the perfect tools to break it down into manageable pieces. At the end of the day, it’s all about you and it’s my mission to make sure the day feels like such an intimate moment between you and those you love.
Who Am I?
I am originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, but lived in Madison, Wisconsin for most of my life. I graduated high school in 2019, and after going to college in Chicago for a year, when the pandemic hit, I decided to follow my heart and move to Los Angeles! When I’m not working for TWPLA, I’m either on set as an actress, singing my heart out at karaoke, reading, or chasing my son (aka my 1 ½-year-old puppy.) I love being creative and my pandemic hobby was learning to do calligraphy- a lot of the lettering on our personal gifts to you are done by me! I have cried at every single wedding I have worked at (usually during the ceremony, but speeches and dances have been known to get me, too), so you’ll have at least one less dry eye in the audience ;). I absolutely love this team, and I am so grateful for every day I get to spend with them on or “off” the clock! I cannot wait to hear from you and help you on this wonderful day!
Thank you so much!
Averie | Lead Coordinator
The Wedding Planner LA
Hi, I’m marina
LEAD DAY OF COORDINATOR
WHO AM I?
I was raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Security risk analysis from Penn State, I started wedding planning to fill my free time. Now, as a 2023 bride myself, I understand firsthand the importance of every aspect of the wedding journey. I have always loved the event world and absolutely was the girl that always dreamed of her wedding. When I'm not coordinating weddings, you can find me with my husband, probably petting our cat!
My Style
Ever since I was little, I've been obsessed with the magic of weddings. From the delicate details to the overflowing emotions, there's nothing quite like it! I take a calm and collected approach to planning, but trust me, I sweat the small stuff (in a good way!). Consider me your laid-back confidante with a hawk eye for detail. Together, we'll create a wedding that's both flawlessly executed and uniquely you, leaving you stress-free to soak up every moment of joy.