Meet Coralie von Unruh | Wedding planner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Coralie von Unruh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Coralie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The journey of creating my wedding planning company has been both exhilarating and challenging. While my background was not initially in the wedding industry, my innate entrepreneurial spirit always drove me to explore new opportunities. The path leading me to the wedding planning field was more a series of carefully chosen opportunities than a predetermined plan.

Transitioning into wedding planning required a significant leap of faith. The most formidable challenge was finding the confidence to embark on this entrepreneurial endeavor. Unlike traditional career paths, where guidelines and instructions are provided, venturing into wedding planning meant charting my own course. There was no one to dictate what steps to take or ensure the correctness of my decisions.

However, this independence has turned out to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. The absence of a predefined roadmap allows me the freedom to make decisions based on my vision and values. While it might be daunting, the autonomy to shape the direction of my business has become the aspect I cherish the most.

In the world of wedding planning, every decision has a profound impact on creating memorable experiences for couples. The ability to craft unique, personalized celebrations is what drives my passion for this work. Even on the most challenging days, the autonomy and creative freedom that comes with being a wedding planner make the journey incredibly fulfilling.

In essence, the process of creating my company has been a testament to my entrepreneurial spirit and the courage to embrace the unknown. It’s about seizing opportunities, taking risks, and, most importantly, enjoying the freedom to build something meaningful from the ground up.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My wedding planning business, White Tie Planner, proudly brings the enchanting “French touch” to weddings in North Carolina. Specializing in infusing events with the elegance and romance synonymous with French celebrations, we take pride in creating a unique blend of Southern charm and French sophistication.

What sets us apart is our commitment to personalized storytelling, where each wedding becomes a canvas for the couple’s love story. Whether it’s incorporating elements of French culture or tailoring every detail to reflect the couple’s personalities, we strive to make each event a truly unforgettable experience.

The journey to where we are today has been a labor of love, but not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles, especially in the wedding industry, has been the need for patience. Building a network of reliable collaborators and attracting clients takes time, and the growth of the company is not always exponential from the start. This is particularly true in the realm of weddings, where couples often book services well in advance—sometimes a year or two before their big day.

Overcoming these challenges has required a steadfast dedication to our vision and a belief in the value of patience. The key has been focusing on delivering exceptional service, cultivating meaningful relationships within the industry, and continuously refining our craft.

A crucial lesson learned along the way is the significance of time investment in building a reputable brand. Each wedding planned is a step towards growth, and by consistently delivering exceptional experiences, we have earned the trust and loyalty of our clients.

What I want the world to know about White Tie Planner is that we are not just wedding planners; we are curators of love stories, weaving together the magic of French romance and the warmth of Southern hospitality. Our journey is a testament to the power of patience, dedication, and the belief that every couple deserves a wedding as unique as their love.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For a week-long trip, I would curate a blend of Southern charm, cultural experiences, and culinary delights to ensure my best friend experiences the best of the area.

Day 1: Welcome to the South

Start the day with a hearty Southern breakfast that I will cook.
Explore the historic district, visiting landmarks and immersing in the local culture in Raleigh Downtown.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Southern barbecue dinner at a renowned local spot. (Prime barbecue:))

Day 2: Trip to the montains

Morning: Driving to Asheville.
Afternoon: Lunch at the Omni grove hotel and go for a nice hiking.
Evening: Discover Asheville Downton by night.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning: Head to a scenic nature spot for a peaceful morning hike or nature walk.
Afternoon: Treat your friend to a spa day, combining relaxation with Southern hospitality.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Day 4: Let’s go Charlotte

Morning: Driving to Charlotte
Afternoon: Explore museums or attend a live performance showcasing the area’s artistic talents.
Evening: Watching Football game in their big stadium.

Day 5: Let’s go to Wilmington

Morning: Drive to the coast for a day at the beach, enjoying sun, sand, and sea.
Afternoon: Savor fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant.
Evening: Experience the coastal nightlife with beachside entertainment and live music.

Day 6: Culinary Extravaganza

Morning: Attend a cooking class featuring local specialties.
Afternoon: Explore a food market or artisanal shops for unique culinary finds.
Evening: Enjoy a progressive dinner, hopping between top-rated restaurants for each course.

Day 7: Farewell Celebration

Morning: Relax with brunch at a cozy cafe.
Afternoon: Take a scenic riverboat cruise or visit a local landmark.
Evening: End the trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, offering stunning views and a delightful atmosphere.
Throughout the week, I would sprinkle in visits to local hidden gems, live music performances, and vibrant neighborhoods, ensuring my best friend experiences the diverse and captivating essence of the area.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely, there have been pivotal figures and sources of inspiration that deserve recognition in my entrepreneurial journey. First and foremost, I would like to dedicate my shoutout to Louise my best friend and Mentor, whose guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping my path as a wedding planner. Their wisdom and experience have been a guiding light, providing valuable insights and helping me navigate the intricacies of the wedding industry.

I am also deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my family and friends. Their encouragement during moments of self-doubt and celebration during milestones have been the emotional foundation that sustains me. It’s often the people around us who contribute significantly to our success, and I am fortunate to have such a strong support system.

Website: www.whitetieplanner.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitetieplanner/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitetieplanner/about/

Image Credits
Photography: Cliché Photography – Yoan Flower: The Skinny Vase – Jacklyn Dress: Channy Bride and Beyond Suits: Alexander Eton – Alexander HMUA: Jessica Hair Mua – Jessica